One more sleep till Edinburghs Christmas 2023
With only one more sleep until Edinburgh’s Christmas officially opens, locals and tourists alike can now plan out their Christmas agenda with festive fun planned for every corner of the city.
Article Source: Edinburgh’s Christmas
Last Updated: 16 November 2023 9:25
Fri 17 Nov 2023 - Sat 6 Jan 2024
A world-renowned destination for festive fun throughout the holiday season, Edinburgh’s Christmas will run for seven magical weeks, opening Friday 17 November until Saturday 6 January 2024. From shopping for gifts at the traditional Christmas markets, funfair rides for all the family, ice skating with friends, live events, that first mulled drink of the season and the all-important visit to Santa – Edinburgh is the place to be this festive season.
Edinburgh’s Christmas, produced by UniqueAssembly on behalf of City of Edinburgh Council, will take place across four locations throughout the capital this year with events in East Princes Street Gardens, West Princes Street Gardens, St Andrew Square and George Street. Full programme information and tickets to attractions and events are available now via www.edinburgh-christmas.com.
HERE COMES SANTA CLAUS...
There’s something for everyone at Edinburgh’s Christmas in 2023 – whether taking in views of the city skyline from the Forth1 Big Wheel, skating your way into the festive season at the Ice Rink or settling in for a Santa Story...it’s the most wonderful time of the year.
Landing in St Andrew Square straight from the North Pole itself, Santa and some very helpful elves will welcome families to Santa’s Stories – a magical storytelling experience where every child will meet Santa and receive their own gift, as well as learn the importance of giving this Christmas season. Create new Christmas traditions at St Andrew Square’s special Post-Box and Letter Writing Station where Santa’s elves will help kids post their requests off to the North Pole.
Get your skates on and take a trip around the ice at Edinburgh’s Christmas Ice Rink with Jet2holidays – back bigger and better than ever before on George Street. The clear undercover rink is the ideal way to take in the majestic Georgian skyline of Edinburgh’s New Town whilst embracing the festive spirit and showing off your best moves before warming up with a hot mulled cider at George Street’s cosy warming zones.
Take a ride on the Forth1 Big Wheel, Scotland’s largest festive ferris-wheel standing at 46m tall and providing stunning views of the city’s skyline. Or take a ride on the TechnoPower, reach new heights on the Starflyer or take the long way down on the Helter Skelter, all located in East Princes Street Gardens.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY LIVE EVENTS:
The iconic Ross Bandstand will play host to a programme of free family-friendly events each weekend in the build up to Christmas. The programme features four key themes of LIGHT, MUSIC, DANCE & SANTA and will include live concerts, Diwali Celebrations, ceilidhs, silent discos, carol concerts and even a pup-tastic Santa Paws event.
Edinburgh’s Christmas Opening Concert will officially launch festivities on Saturday 18 November with a welcome speech from the Lord Provost of Edinburgh; plus performances from the Little Stars Big Voices Choir, Dance@Studio21, Siamsoir Irish Dance Performance Troupe, and Sprog Rock.
Other events include the culmination of Edinburgh Diwali (19 Nov) with performances and a dazzling fireworks display; Sing-a-long Saturday (2 Dec) and a Nativity Carol Concert (3 Dec) where you can join the chorus for your favourite Christmas songs; and a St Andrew’s Outdoor Ceilidh (26 Nov) in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle. Rounding things off at the Ross Bandstand events is Santa Paws (9 Dec) and the When You Wish Upon A Star’s Santa Fun Run (10 Dec). Dress up as Santa and fundraise for a good cause at the 19th annual Edinburgh Santa Fun Run & Walk.
Events at the Ross Bandstand run Saturdays and Sundays, 18 November – 10 December. Tickets are free or from £4 for the Silent Disco with £1 of every ticket being donated to One City Trust.
FIND THE PERFECT GIFT:
Edinburgh’s traditional Christmas Markets are world renowned and this year, over 80 stalls will be located across the city from East Princes Street Gardens to George Street. The local and international stalls will sell everything from handmade gifts and bespoke products to tasty treats and delicious drinks.
The perfect place to pick up gifts for under the tree this year, the Christmas Market in East Princes Street Gardens will welcome independent traders including; The Edinburgh Natural Skincare Company, LoudElephant, From the Olive Tree, Hairy Fairy Gifts and returning favourites The Christmas Nutcracker Shop and many more.
Shoppers can take a trip down one of the city’s most famous streets for shopping as George Street becomes home to a stunning selection of Christmas markets and boutique traders including family-run Soctopus, locals Brownhill Whisky and Native Handicraft.
Foodies looking for tasty festive treats in East Princes Street Gardens can try out everything from Ting Thai’s award-winning Pad Thai to hot pies from Jarvis Pickle Kitchen and finish off with sweet churros, crepes and waffles, or luxury hot chocolate from Hector and Harriet.
For more gift ideas, head to Local Motive’s Christmas Market on Castle Street from 25 November to 22 December, featuring 22 stalls selling quality made local, fair trade and ethical gift including arts and crafts, food and drinks.
SPREADING CHRISTMAS CHEER:
It’s not just the city centre that gets into the Christmas Spirit, with festive exhibitions and events taking place across Edinburgh.
Pantomime favourites Allan Stewart, Grant Stott and Jordan Young join The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan (25 Nov – 31 Dec) at the Festival Theatre; The Snow Queen (23 Nov – 31 Dec) makes her way to The Lyceum; the Balkan bad boys of puppetry bring Boris & Sergey's A Christmas Carol (A Cabaret) (12 – 21 Dec) to Assembly Roxy; and the 14th annual Edinburgh International Magic Festival (20 – 31 Dec) comes to Edinburgh with performances from Elliot Bibby, Cameron Gibson, Kevin Quantum, and more.
Christmas at the Botanics (16 Nov – 30 Dec) returns with a magical, botanical illuminated trail for all ages; The Polar Express Edinburgh steams its way into Waverley Station for a thrilling theatrical experience; and Christmas at the Palace takes place at the Palace of Holyroodhouse with Exclusive Evening Tours and a Carol Concert in the State Apartments.
Summerhall hosts its Big Christmas Weekend (1 – 3 Dec) with arts, Christmas creativity, and wreath making workshop; the Christmas Arts Market (2 – 10 Dec) returns to Out of the Blue Drill Hall; Edinburgh’s Zoo Winter Village (1 Dec – 7 Jan) comes to Corstorphine; and the Tron Kirk Market (1 Nov – 1 Jan) boasts over 20 Scottish artists and designers all affiliated with the Scottish Design Exchange.
Details of Christmas events across Edinburgh can be found at www.edwinterfest.com
Culture and Communities Convener, Councillor Val Walker said: It’s fantastic that Edinburgh’s Christmas is opening to the public this week, and I can’t wait to experience the magic alongside our residents and visitors. For six weeks our city is transformed into a true winter wonderland with a wide range of activities for people of all ages. From the Ice Rink on George Street, to the Botanical Gardens being lit up, the amazing Christmas market in Princes Street Gardens and so much more we’re truly spoilt for choice.
“We’re exceptionally proud of the internationally stellar reputation that our Winter Festivals command and I’m sure this year will be every bit as special.”
Edinburgh’s Christmas opens early evening Friday 17 November with the Big Wheel and Christmas Market at East Princes Street Gardens. The Festive Family Funfair, Ice Rink with Jet2holidays, and Santa’s Stories begin on Saturday 18 November and run till Saturday 6 January 2024.
Tickets and further information on Edinburgh’s Christmas full programme of events and attractions is available at www.edinburgh-christmas.com.
Sponsored Links
Latest Edinburgh News
Rare female cheetah arrives at Edinburgh Zoo
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) has welcomed four-year-old female cheetah Domino to Edinburgh Zoo from Zoo de Cerza, France.
READ MORE
Santa clocks in early: Scotland shift heroes among 30,000 invited to claim free festive meal
Greene King pubs is raising the spirits of Scotland's hardest workers this festive season, hosting 'The Big Christmas Shift' across 700 pubs nationwide, giving away 30,000 meals on Monday 1st December
READ MORE
Festive days out to make the most of the season
From wreath-making workshops through to New Year’s Eve street parties, here's a rounded up some of the best events to help make the most of the season with loved ones in a fun and creative way.
READ MORE
November and December at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
From Christmas to Artist in Residence, discover Virgin Hotels Edinburgh's events taking place in this festive season!
READ MORE
Edinburgh Small Businesses shine as part of small business roadshow
Independent businesses in Edinburgh celebrated as part of Small Business Saturday’s Tour highlighting the nation’s favourite businesses
READ MORE
SAY Award winner announced as Kai Reesu
Kai Reesu’s ‘KOMPROMAT vol.i’ was tonight announced as winner of The Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award, as the country’s national music prize Ceremony took place in Dundee’s Caird Hall.
READ MORE
Beyond Monet and Beyond Van Gogh open in Edinburgh this month
Two immersive experiences which bring the work of a pair of iconic artists to life in mesmerising and moving fashion are set to open in Edinburgh this month.
READ MORE
The many worlds of Stephen King return to Vue this autumn
As the The Long Walk wraps up in cinemas, fans of Stephen King can look forward to seven classic re-releases heading to the big screen this autumn.
READ MORE
First ever Letters Live cinema events comes to the Big Screen in Edinburgh this week
A very special cinema event is coming to Edinburgh this week, comprising a preview of a brand-new film, a world-renowned literary event and an appearance from a BAFTA-winning actor.
READ MORE
Flight Club Edinburgh launches limited edition Winter Menu and Festive Brunch
Flight Club Edinburgh kicks off Christmas party season with the unveiling of its specially curated limited-edition menu and festive celebration-worthy bottomless brunch.
READ MORE
Deer Park unwraps a festive calendar of fun for December
Deer Park Golf & Country Club is set to bring a touch of Christmas magic this December, with a month-long programme of festive events for families, friends and colleagues to enjoy.
READ MORE
Vue Ocean Terminal set to welcome luxurious new seating option
Film fans in Edinburgh will soon be able to enjoy the latest releases in the ultimate comfort with the arrival of Vue’s signature Ultra Lux seat at its Ocean Terminal venue.
READ MORE
Decade of teaching Scotland to swim capped In Edinburgh
A PROGRAMME that has created a legacy of confident swimmers across Scotland has reached a major milestone, celebrating ten years of transforming lives through the power of swimming.
READ MORE
Call for homeowners in Edinburgh and Lothians to check eligibility for Energy Saving Home Improvements
With energy bills remaining high and winter approaching, thousands of families in Edinburgh and the Lothians could be missing out on free home energy improvements worth £10,000 or more.
READ MORE
Public vote opens for Scottish Jazz Awards 2025 as scene flourishes
A stellar lineup of nominees has been announced for the Scottish Jazz Awards 2025, showcasing the exceptional talent flourishing across Scotland's vibrant jazz scene.
READ MORE
RZSS continues call for national ban on public sale of fireworks
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) is renewing its call for a national ban on the public sale of fireworks, one year after the tragic death of baby red panda Roxie at Edinburgh Zoo.
READ MORE
Edinburgh to welcome globally renowned DJs to perform at The Johnnie Walker Experience
FREE Tickets for ‘Keep Walking Live with NTS Radio, presented by The Johnnie Walker Experience’ are available now on Resident Advisor.
READ MORE
Magical Winter Village to light up Fort Kinnaird for the first time this Christmas
This Christmas, Fort Kinnaird will be transformed into a festive wonderland filled with seasonal street food, artisan gifts, fairground rides and spectacular circus shows for all to enjoy.
READ MORE
First Footin Trail returns to Kick Start
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay organisers today announce the first events at this year’s First Footin’ programme on New Year’s Day.
READ MORE
Edinburgh International Book Festival makes 60 new flagship events available worldwide
Edinburgh International Book Festival is releasing 60 more events from its August 2025 programme for global audiences this week on a Donate What You Can basis.
READ MORE
Heroes call on Scottish rugby fans to vote for the greatest Murrayfield rugby moment
SCOTTISH rugby fans have been called upon to cast their vote for the greatest ever Murrayfield rugby moment as part of celebrations marking the national stadium’s centenary.
READ MORE
Make a difference to East Lothian during Trustees Week
Volunteer Centre East Lothian urges people to lend their support to local charities by becoming a trustee.
READ MORE
The Christmas tradition of the year is back...
Scotland's biggest Christmas drive-in returns: 11 days of Elf, Home Alone & more at Loch Lomond Shores!
READ MORE
Customers queue for 18 hours at Popeyes Fort Kinnaird
Today, Popeyes® UK, home of the famous Louisiana Chicken, opened its Fort Kinnaird restaurant in Newcraighall, with over 100 people in the queue for launch day.
READ MORE
Midlothian primary school set to celebrate centenary with a week of music and memories
Exactly 100 years since Newtongrange Primary School first opened its doors, teachers and pupils are set to celebrate its centenary in style.
READ MORE
National Roadshow to Shine a Spotlight on Edinburgh Small Businesses
Edinburgh’s small businesses are set to take centre stage this week as the Small Business Saturday nationwide roadshow rolls into town on Wednesday, 5th November.
READ MORE
St Andrews Day ticket offer for Castle of Light
Edinburgh Castle ignites excitement for Castle of Light: Fire and Ice with special St Andrew’s Day ticket offer.
READ MORE
Shuttle Bus Route Launched at Lost Shore Surf Resort
Lost Shore Surf Resort is teaming up with Scottish sustainable travel pioneer Ember to launch a new all-electric shuttle bus service from Edinburgh City Centre to the resort.
READ MORE
Michelin success for top new restaurant of the year in Edinburgh
Barry Fish, one of Edinburgh’s most celebrated new restaurants of 2025, has earned its place in the prestigious Michelin Guide for Great Britain and Ireland, just 8 months after its launch.
READ MORE
Deer Park Golf and Country Club Tees Up Championship Quality Golf All Year Round
Deer Park is offering golfers the chance to enjoy superb playing conditions 365 days a year, ensuring the course remains in peak form, whatever the weather.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links