Discover 24 verified other christmas activities in Edinburgh and nearby areas.
Welcome to our guide to a diverse range of Edinburgh Christmas activities! Beyond the markets and parties, there's a whole world of festive experiences waiting for you. We've gathered unique seasonal events to help you discover more Edinburgh Christmas activities and make the most of the holiday season.
From enchanting light displays in parks to charming winter wonderlands dotted around the city, Edinburgh offers a variety of festive events. Explore the unique atmosphere that transforms the city during this special time of year.
This guide highlights a broad spectrum of holiday activities, ensuring there's something to capture everyone's imagination. Dive in and find your perfect festive experience to celebrate the season in Edinburgh!
Historic Torchlight Procession through Old Town
Embark on a breathtaking journey through Edinburgh's historic Old Town with the traditional Torchlight Procession. This iconic event, a highlight of Edinburgh's Hogmanay, transforms the city into a mesmerizing river of fire as participants carry torches through the ancient streets....
World-famous New Year's Eve street party and fireworks
Edinburgh's Hogmanay is a world-renowned New Year's Eve celebration, drawing revelers from across the globe. For over 30 years, this historic city has hosted a spectacular festival honoring both old and new traditions. Experience the iconic Street Party with live...
Hands-on festive wreath creation workshop.
Unleash your creativity at this festive Christmas wreath workshop. Participants will learn traditional techniques to craft their own unique holiday wreath, using a selection of beautiful materials. It's a perfect opportunity to get into the holiday spirit and create a...
Festive Santa experience for dogs with a sniff-ari and gifts.
Bring your furry friend to Dobbies Edinburgh for the 'Santa Paws' event, a delightful festive experience designed for dogs and their families. Dogs can embark on a 'sniff-ari' to discover festive scents and even tackle fun obstacle courses. Every canine...
Magical North Pole adventure with Santa and a gift.
Step into a magical North Pole adventure at Dobbies' Santa's Grotto, featuring snowy scenes, ice fishing with penguins, and snowball games. Children will have individual time with Santa, receive a special gift, and can capture memories with professional photos. A...
Family-friendly Santa Dash and Christmas Light Switch On
Get into the festive spirit at the Dunfermline Rotary Santa Dash, a fun family event that kicks off the Christmas season. Participants can choose to dash down the High Street or take on a 5km run through Pittencrieff Park, all...
Eco-friendly gift wrap creation workshop
Elevate your gift-giving with the Festive Gift Wrap Workshop. Participants will learn to create beautiful, eco-friendly gift wrap, matching tags, and cards using handmade stamps and common household items. This workshop offers a relaxing and fun afternoon in a festive...
Interactive family festive experience with Santa visits
Experience a magical holiday season at The Barns with a special visit from Santa Claus. This interactive family event offers a festive atmosphere perfect for creating cherished memories. Children can meet Santa and enjoy engaging activities in a beautifully decorated...
Father Christmas visits at Wardown House
Experience the magic of the holiday season as Father Christmas makes a special visit to Wardown House, Museum & Gallery. This enchanting event offers a wonderful opportunity for families to create lasting memories. Children can share their wishes with Father...
Handcrafted festive wreath workshop with garden access
Celebrate the holiday season by crafting your own luxurious festive wreath at Abbotsford. Under expert guidance, participants will use a curated selection of seasonal foliage and natural decorations to create a beautiful piece for their home. All tools and materials...
Santa's Grotto supporting Strathcarron Hospice
Make this Christmas truly magical by visiting Santa in his enchanting Grotto at the Thistles Shopping Centre. Children can delight in creating special reindeer food for Rudolph and his friends, have a memorable sit in Santa's sleigh, and receive a...
Breakfast with Santa and gift selection
Create lasting holiday memories at Valley View Restaurant's "Breakfast with Santa" event. This magical experience offers families a chance to enjoy a festive breakfast, meet Santa Claus himself, and for children and babies to select a special gift from his...
Festive-themed quiz night
Get ready for a festive quiz night filled with holiday spirit and challenging questions. This event promises a fun-filled evening for all participants looking to test their knowledge and enjoy the festive season.
Magical North Pole adventure with Santa and a gift.
Step into a world of festive magic at Dobbies Stirling's Santa's Grotto. Children will be welcomed by elves for a North Pole adventure filled with interactive games, snowy scenes, and a chance to meet Santa. Each child receives a special...
Linocut workshop inspired by winter foliage
Unleash your creativity at the Festive Foliage Linocut Workshop, where you'll be inspired by the natural beauty of winter gardens. Learn linocut printing techniques from artist Pamela Scott and craft your own unique festive designs. Create personalized greetings cards or...
Festive theme park experience with Santa visits and rides
Experience the magic of Christmas at Scotland's Theme Park with 'Believe in Santa'! This festive event offers a day filled with thrilling rides, exciting attractions, and holiday cheer. Families can enjoy unlimited access to outdoor rides with an all-day wristband,...
Festive Santa Dash for hospice fundraising
Get ready for a jingle-filled fun run at the Kilbryde Hospice Santa Dash! Participants of all ages, including furry friends, are invited to don their Santa best for a festive dash. The event includes a Santa suit for adults, a...
Interactive Christmas wreath making with expert florist.
Craft a beautiful, personalized Christmas wreath during an interactive workshop at the stunning Crossbasket Castle. Led by the talented Karen from Posies and Pots, you'll learn to create your own festive masterpiece. The experience is complemented by a delicious two-course...
Annual charity Christmas concert with live orchestra and choir.
Join Young Lives vs Cancer for their beloved 45th annual Christmas Concert at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall. This heartwarming event features the Glasgow choir, the Glasgow Chamber Orchestra, and special guests, all under the inspiring direction of Alistair Digges....
Creative Christmas workshops in Glasgow
Discover a festive array of Christmas workshops at Braw Wee Craft Club, offering a chance to create unique handmade gifts and decorations. From cozy arm-knitted blankets to charming woolly wreaths and custom soy candles, there's a creative project for everyone....
Europe's largest indoor funfair
Prepare for an unforgettable experience at Europe's largest indoor funfair, the IRN-BRU Carnival, returning to the SEC Glasgow. This spectacular event promises a day filled with excitement for all ages, featuring a thrilling collection of rides, classic carnival stalls with...
Anglo-Saxon heritage meets festive Yule celebrations and distillery experiences.
Step into a festive Yule celebration at Ad Gefrin, offering a unique blend of historical immersion and seasonal activities. Visitors can engage in creative workshops like Yule decoration and wreath making, or learn mixology at a Yule cocktail masterclass. Delve...
Magical Polar Express train ride with Santa.
Journey to the North Pole on a magical train ride inspired by the beloved film, 'The Polar Express'. Families can immerse themselves in the enchanting story, enjoying festive decorations, hot chocolate, and cookies served by costumed chefs. The adventure culminates...
Magical Christmas adventure in an enchanted forest setting.
Step into a fairytale at Kielder Winter Wonderland, a full-day immersive Christmas experience set in the stunning Kielder Forest. Families can embark on a magical adventure, meeting Father Christmas, Mrs. Claus, and a host of festive friends. Activities include crafting...
See the location of all other christmas activities around Edinburgh and nearby areas
Open Map →Typically, temporary ice rinks pop up in popular city locations during the Christmas season, often near the city centre or major attractions. Keep an eye on local event listings as the holidays approach for confirmed locations and opening dates.
Many family attractions and shopping centres across Edinburgh host visits with Santa Claus. Look for events at places like the Gyle Shopping Centre or various garden centres on the outskirts of the city for magical meet-and-greets.
While not always a regular feature, keep an eye out for special heritage railway events or themed rides that might operate near Edinburgh during the festive period. These often offer a nostalgic and charming way to experience the holidays.
Wandering through the beautifully decorated streets of the Old and New Towns is a wonderful free activity. Many churches offer free carol services, and simply enjoying the festive window displays offers plenty of Christmas cheer without spending a penny.