Edinburgh's Christmas celebrations are among the best in the UK. The city centre hosts a spectacular Christmas market, ice skating, fairground rides, and festive entertainment from mid-November until early January. With Edinburgh Castle as the backdrop, it's a magical setting for the holiday season.
Edinburgh's Christmas Market
Edinburgh's Christmas market takes over Princes Street Gardens and East Princes Street Gardens. The event typically runs from mid-November to early January.
What to Expect
- • Traditional Christmas market stalls
- • German-style wooden chalets
- • Scottish craft vendors
- • Festive food and mulled wine
- • Big wheel with castle views
- • Star Flyer ride
Attractions
- • Ice skating rink (St Andrew Square)
- • Santa's Grotto
- • Christmas tree maze
- • Helter skelter
- • Carousel
- • Live entertainment stage
Visit Santa in Edinburgh
Several venues across Edinburgh offer Santa's Grotto experiences during the festive season. Here are the main options:
Edinburgh's Christmas Santa's Grotto
The official Santa experience at Edinburgh's Christmas market in Princes Street Gardens. Children receive a gift and families can take photos with Santa.
Location: East Princes Street Gardens
Edinburgh Zoo
Santa's Grotto at Edinburgh Zoo combines a Santa visit with seeing the animals. The zoo creates a magical winter atmosphere with festive decorations throughout.
Location: Corstorphine Road
Department Store Santas
Major department stores like John Lewis and Jenners Building sometimes host Santa experiences. Check their websites for current year availability.
Location: Various city centre locations
Tip: Book Santa visits in advance - popular slots sell out quickly, especially weekends.
Edinburgh Christmas Shows
Edinburgh's theatres put on special Christmas shows and pantomimes throughout December.
King's Theatre Pantomime
Edinburgh's main pantomime at the King's Theatre is a beloved tradition. Past productions include Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Sleeping Beauty.
Venue: King's Theatre, Tollcross
Festival Theatre Shows
The Festival Theatre often hosts touring Christmas productions, from ballet to musical theatre and family shows.
Venue: Festival Theatre, Nicolson Street
Edinburgh Playhouse
Major touring musicals and Christmas spectaculars at one of the UK's largest theatres. Check listings for special Christmas productions.
Venue: Edinburgh Playhouse, Greenside Place
More Festive Activities
Ice Skating
Outdoor ice rink at St Andrew Square with Edinburgh's iconic buildings as the backdrop. Open throughout the Christmas season.
Hogmanay
Edinburgh's world-famous New Year celebration. Street party, fireworks, torchlight procession, and concerts.
Christmas Shopping
Princes Street, George Street, and the Royal Mile offer festive shopping. Independent shops in Stockbridge and Bruntsfield for unique gifts.
Festive Dining
Many restaurants offer special Christmas menus. Book early for Christmas Day and New Year's Eve - popular venues fill up fast.
Planning Tips
- ✓Book accommodation early - Edinburgh is popular over Christmas and New Year
- ✓Santa experiences and shows sell out - book in advance
- ✓Weekday visits to the Christmas market are less crowded
- ✓The market is busiest after 5pm on weekends
- ✓Wrap up warm - outdoor attractions can be cold
- ✓Some attractions have separate admission fees
- ✓Check opening dates - market usually runs mid-Nov to early Jan
- ✓Consider a combined ticket for multiple rides