CLICK HERE TO ADD YOUR EVENT

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.

Festive days out to make the most of the season

Article Source: TASTE
Last Updated: 7 November 2025 11:18

The festive season brings more than twinkling lights and Christmas markets. It’s a chance to gather, celebrate and make memories. Whether you’re planning a day out with the little ones, a creative morning with friends or a lively night of music and dancing, there’s something for every taste and pace in this round up of experiences that promise to make the season feel special.

Dance the night away at Radisson Blu Glasgow’s festive parties
On the 19th and 20th December, the ballroom at Radisson Blu Glasgow fills with live music from Unison Anthems and Carbon Copy, a DJ spinning throughout the evening and a three-course seasonal feast. Guests are greeted with a glass of fizz, and tables enjoy a complimentary wine and beer package for these dates only, keeping the celebrations flowing.

Earlier on 19th December, the suite hosts a festive lunch. Friends or colleagues can gather over a three-course meal, fizz in hand, while the resident DJ keeps the atmosphere lively. Tables for lunch also receive the same complimentary drinks package, so the midday gathering sparkles just as much as the evening.
Book by email: events.glasgow@radissonblu.com
View more: HERE

Deck the halls with wreath making at Hamilton Park
On 29th November, Hamilton Park offers a hands-on start to the festive season with a wreath making session led by award-winning florist Eoin Irving-Knowles. Guests can tuck into mince pies and a festive drink before crafting their own seasonal wreaths, using foliage designed to last for months and adding delicate adornments along the way. It’s a relaxed, creative morning to share with friends, family, or colleagues, and a way to take a little of the season home.
View more: HERE

Bring the little ones to meet Santa at Hampden Park
Hampden Park is serving up a Christmas experience with a twist this year. Families can enjoy Breakfast with Santa at Scotland’s national stadium, where little ones can meet Santa himself and take home a special gift. Between face painting, a festive disco and a surprise appearance from Roary the Lion - Scotland’s beloved mascot - there’s plenty to keep the energy high. Parents can relax with a filled breakfast roll before the whole family heads off for an exclusive behind-the-scenes stadium tour.
View more: HERE

Festive sing along at Hard Rock Cafe, Edinburgh
Kick off the season with the little ones at Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh. On the big screen, enjoy the heartwarming holiday classic The Muppet Christmas Carol while tucking into a full breakfast. Festive dress-up is encouraged: Christmas jumpers, Santa hats, and sparkles are all welcome, making it a fun, seasonal start to the day.
View more: HERE

Browse festive market stalls at Knipoch House Hotel, Oban
Knipoch House Hotel opens its door for its Christmas markets this festive season, welcoming visitors with local stalls, seasonal treats, live music and Santa themed activities for kids. The first weekend coincides with the Oban Christmas lights switch-on on 22nd November, making it the perfect time to soak up the town’s festive energy. Beyond the markets, the hotel invites guests to linger with its three-course festive menu, running from 15th November to 23rd December. Expect seasonal favourites from smoked salmon pate to roast turkey with all the trimmings.
View more: HERE

Ring in the bells at Duisdale House Hotel, Isle of Skye
Duisdale House Hotel welcomes guests to celebrate Hogmanay with a full evening of Scottish tradition and festivities. The night begins with Champagne on arrival, followed by a piper leading guests into a seven-course dinner. Evening entertainment continues with live music and a lively ceilidh, culminating in fireworks at The Bells. The celebrations carry on until 1am, with bedtime bacon rolls providing a final festive touch. Non-residents are welcome to join, making it a memorable way to see in the New Year on the Isle of Skye.
View more: HERE

An enchanting Hogmanay Escape at the Old Course Hotel, St Andrews
Ring in Hogmanay at the Old Course Hotel in St Andrews with the Hogmanay Escape and Enchanting NYE package. The two-night stay begins with a Champagne welcome and dinner in the Road Hole Restaurant or Conservatory. As midnight approaches, guests gather in the Swilcan Loft for the Hogmanay party, complete with a disco, bagpiper, and front-row views of the fireworks over St Andrews.

New Year’s Day starts with a full Scottish breakfast, with time to relax or visit the Kohler Waters Spa, before dinner in the Road Hole Restaurant. A simpler two-night stay is also available for those who prefer to enjoy the celebrations without the dinner or party.
View more: HERE

Champagne Picnic Brunch Series in the Old Course Hotel’s Winter Garden, St Andrews
The Old Course Hotel is bringing a touch of sparkle to the salon with its Winter Garden Champagne Brunches, relaxed and feel-good afternoons filled with festive cheer. Set against the backdrop of the Winter Garden in the Conservatory, guests can enjoy a winter-inspired picnic spread paired with three glasses of Veuve Clicquot Champagne or French Bloom, a refined alcohol-free alternative. With live DJ sets and a cosy atmosphere, the brunches on 23rd November and 7th December promise the perfect blend of music, bubbles and seasonal warmth.
View more: HERE

Thistles' Santa’s Grotto, Stirling
Thistles Stirling is bringing back its sell-out Santa’s Grotto to help raise vital funds for local charity Strathcarron Hospice. Event goers will have the chance to meet Santa, make reindeer food, receive a gift and see Santa’s elves, whilst also exploring what Thistles has to offer this festive season.

Returning to the centre on the 29th of November until Christmas Eve, all proceeds from the Grotto ticket sales will go directly to Thistles' long-standing charity partner, Strathcarron Hospice.
View more: HERE

Sponsored Links

The Chocolatarium
Local Motive Markets
MNB
Children's Classic Concerts
Hilton Glasgow
Fayre Play
Wonder & Co

Latest Edinburgh News

Meet Festive Film Favourites at Fort Kinnaird in December

Meet Festive Film Favourites at Fort Kinnaird in December

Christmas is already in full swing at Fort Kinnaird, and the festivities are set to get even more magical as a line-up of much-loved characters visit the centre for the first time this December.

READ MORE
Edinburgh bar to raise Cash For Kids after Christmas nutcracker theft

Edinburgh bar to raise Cash For Kids after Christmas nutcracker theft

Copper Blossom on George Street Edinburgh has launched a new festive cocktail in aid of a children’s charity following the theft of its eight-foot Christmas nutcracker statue.

READ MORE
Embrace the spirit of Christmas on International Volunteer Day

Embrace the spirit of Christmas on International Volunteer Day

Christmas is a time for giving, and what better opportunity to discover new ways to give back to your community than on Friday 5th December, International Volunteer Day.

READ MORE
WIN! An Edinburgh Christmas Experience for 4

WIN! An Edinburgh Christmas Experience for 4

Heard the news? OMNi is inviting everyone to get into the festive spirit with an exclusive Christmas Prize Draw.

READ MORE
Dynamic Earth calls for support as Big Give Match Funding opens

Dynamic Earth calls for support as Big Give Match Funding opens

Dynamic Earth has launched its 2025 Big Give Christmas Challenge campaign to boost STEM access for young people.

READ MORE
Ring in Hogmanay with darts, dancing, and bottomless pizza

Ring in Hogmanay with darts, dancing, and bottomless pizza

If your New Year's resolution is to have more fun, start early at Flight Club!

READ MORE
Aldi colleague awarded medal from the King after fundraising efforts

Aldi colleague awarded medal from the King after fundraising efforts

An Aldi colleague based in Bathgate has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in recognition of her incredible fundraising efforts, helping to raise almost £50,000 for local charities.

READ MORE
Fort Kinnaird joins forces with local charities to support people who feel lonely at Christmas

Fort Kinnaird joins forces with local charities to support people who feel lonely at Christmas

New research has revealed one in two people (56 per cent) living in Edinburgh have experienced feelings of loneliness at Christmas.

READ MORE
Celebrate South Asian cinema this December with a selection of releases at Vue

Celebrate South Asian cinema this December with a selection of releases at Vue

There’s plenty for fans of South Asian cinema to enjoy at Vue this December, with a number of titles heading to the big screen.

READ MORE
Santas little helpers, assemble

Santas little helpers, assemble

Santa Paws, in partnership with Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, is calling out for the city’s dogs to take part in an attempt to break the world record for the most dogs in Christmas jumpers.

READ MORE
The Entertainer opens brand new store in Edinburgh

The Entertainer opens brand new store in Edinburgh

Britain’s toy shop, The Entertainer, has officially opened a brand-new store at The Gyle Shopping Centre.

READ MORE
Brighten up the nights with the magical Winter Windows

Brighten up the nights with the magical Winter Windows

Winter Windows are back at Edinburgh’s Christmas! An arts competition for Edinburgh schoolchildren of all ages, it is an annual showcase of their creativity and skills.

READ MORE
Edinburgh residents encouraged to nominate a charity to receive a festive financial boost

Edinburgh residents encouraged to nominate a charity to receive a festive financial boost

Benefact Group’s Movement for Good Awards is giving away £120,000 as part of its annual 12 Days of Giving Christmas campaign and nominations are now open.

READ MORE
Volunteer Centre East Lothian reopens just in time for the season of goodwill

Volunteer Centre East Lothian reopens just in time for the season of goodwill

The team at Volunteer Centre East Lothian (VCEL) have thrown open their doors after an extensive renovation and are welcoming back local residents, volunteers and community groups.

READ MORE
Newtongrange Primary School pupils reap the benefits of outdoor learning with a newly extended playground

Newtongrange Primary School pupils reap the benefits of outdoor learning with a newly extended playground

Pupils at a Midlothian school have given their resounding approval to their newly extended playground, which includes access to green space and trim trail equipment.

READ MORE
Fort Kinnaird crowns winner of competition to design labels for homegrown honey

Fort Kinnaird crowns winner of competition to design labels for homegrown honey

Nine-year-old Elodie from Niddrie Mill Primary School has been named the winner of a recent competition launched by Fort Kinnaird to design a label for the honey produced by its resident beehives.

READ MORE
Name the Loganair Christmas puffin and win a family adventure

Name the Loganair Christmas puffin and win a family adventure

Loganair, the UK’s leading regional airline, has launched a new festive competition to name the puffin starring in its emotional Christmas advert.

READ MORE
Edinburghs Hogmanay reveals International Partnership & Artist Exchange Programme with Basque Country

Edinburghs Hogmanay reveals International Partnership & Artist Exchange Programme with Basque Country

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay today reveals the full line-up for its much-loved First Footin’ programme on New Year’s Day, with a landmark international collaboration led by Valtos topping the bill.

READ MORE
The Main Course: Serving Up a Slice of Italy in the Heart of Gullane this Christmas

The Main Course: Serving Up a Slice of Italy in the Heart of Gullane this Christmas

Planning a Christmas lunch with colleagues, a family gathering or a relaxed night out with friends? The Main Course offers comfort, warmth and a menu that brings people back year after year.

READ MORE
Hamish Hawk commission comes to life with Edinburgh International Book Festival first ever record release

Hamish Hawk commission comes to life with Edinburgh International Book Festival first ever record release

Edinburgh International Book Festival today announces that Life in a Scotch Sitting-room, Vol. 0, a limited-edition LP by Scottish indie songwriter Hamish Hawk, will be released on 5th December.

READ MORE
SUSHISAMBA Edinburgh unveils New Years Eve event and festive offering

SUSHISAMBA Edinburgh unveils New Years Eve event and festive offering

This festive season, SUSHISAMBA Edinburgh is elevating its celebrations with two unforgettable experiences that perfectly capture the spirit of the season.

READ MORE
Vault City launches festive, Quaffable Treats, beer box inspired by Christmas chocolate tins

Vault City launches festive, Quaffable Treats, beer box inspired by Christmas chocolate tins

An Edinburgh brewery has created the 'perfect gift' for beer lovers this Christmas, inspired by the chocolates people hunt for first in the tin.

READ MORE
Red Hot Chilli Pipers headline free weekend of celebrations with Christmas ceilidh and market

Red Hot Chilli Pipers headline free weekend of celebrations with Christmas ceilidh and market

The Ross Bandstand sparked festivities on Sunday with its opening Light Night Concert, and now has a jam-packed Scottish weekend in store of free events in honour of St Andrew's Day.

READ MORE
Somewhere by Nico Launches Festive Cocktail Experience

Somewhere by Nico Launches Festive Cocktail Experience

This festive season, Glasgow and Edinburgh relevellers can relive the magic of Christmas past as Somewhere by Nico unveil a brand-new immersive experience!

READ MORE
Zizzi celebrates a fresh era with a new menu and app, by giving 132 people free pasta for one year

Zizzi celebrates a fresh era with a new menu and app, by giving 132 people free pasta for one year

Zizzi has introduced a new food & drink menu across all its restaurants, launched a brand-new Zizzi app, and is giving 132 people free pasta for one year.

READ MORE
Festive Season at Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection

Festive Season at Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection

Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection have launched some new offerings designed for memorable Christmas stays, spectacular Hogmanay celebrations, and cozy winter escapes.

READ MORE
Leading the charge! Edinburgh car retailer hosts electric vehicle experience

Leading the charge! Edinburgh car retailer hosts electric vehicle experience

John Clark Volvo Edinburgh is celebrating after its first EV Customer Experience Evening was a success with local drivers.

READ MORE
Six of the Best: Iconic concerts that rocked Murrayfield as the famous stadium turns 100

Six of the Best: Iconic concerts that rocked Murrayfield as the famous stadium turns 100

Scottish Gas Murrayfield has hosted some of the biggest shows Scotland has ever seen – and fans have had their say on the standouts.

READ MORE
Second year of Urban Forestry Programme opens across Scotland

Second year of Urban Forestry Programme opens across Scotland

Community groups, organisations and schools across Scotland are being invited to apply for grants of up to £100,000.

READ MORE
Fire and Ice captivates thousands as Castle of Light opens in spectacular style

Fire and Ice captivates thousands as Castle of Light opens in spectacular style

Over 4,700 people descended on Edinburgh Castle this weekend as Castle of Light: Fire and Ice officially opened to the public!

READ MORE

Sponsored Links

WST
Escape The Past
Open Pass Scotland
Kevin Quantum
Edinburgh Dungeon
ATG
Hostelworld

Sponsored Links

The Chocolatarium
Local Motive Markets
MNB
Children's Classic Concerts
Hilton Glasgow
Fayre Play
Wonder & Co
WST
Escape The Past
Open Pass Scotland
Kevin Quantum
Edinburgh Dungeon
ATG
Hostelworld

Popular Events

Edinburgh’s Christmas: The Polar Ice Bar
Take some time to ‘chill’ at the Polar Ice Bar, the coolest bar in the city, where your table, chairs and glasses are sculpted entirely from ice.
Castle Of Light
Make Castle of Light: Fire and Ice part of your festive plans and enjoy the largest annual projection show in the UK when it returns for its sixth year!
Panto 2025: Jack and the Beanstalk
Join Allan Stewart, Grant Stott and Jordan Young for the GIANT of a pantomime we've all BEAN waiting for!
Festive shadow puppets and stories
Listen to a cosy wintertime tale and then create your own shadow puppet story characters at this fun, interactive workshop for families at the National Library of Scotland on Saturday 6th December.
Kevin Bridges: Here If You Need Me
Scotland's comedy powerhouse Kevin Bridges comes to the Edinburgh Playhouse in 2026 with his brand-new stand-up show, Here If You Need Me!

Popular Listings

Corn Exchange Haddington Edinburgh Playhouse Festival Theatre Edinburgh Howden Park Centre Livingston Kings Theatre Edinburgh National Museum of Scotland O2 Academy Edinburgh The Brunton Theatre, Musselburgh Traverse Theatre Usher Hall