Ah, the twinkling Christmas lights are starting to show up in Edinburgh, and we’re beyond excited. As people are starting to put up their trees and The Dome was up and ready since October, Edinburgh is starting to look a lot like Christmas. And for those who love to observe the charming lights all around, we’ve gathered up a list of must-see places.
1. The Dome
Since The Dome Edinburgh is one of the first to put up its lights during Christmas with October 30 being the big day in 2023, it deserves the number one spot on our list. It’s an obvious attraction every year, yet the iconic building must not be missed. Whether you’re in just for one drink to take in the stunning decorations or book into a Christmassy afternoon tea experience, the lights of The Dome will surely be as enchanting as ever. Plus, rumour has it The Dome is hosting a Hogmanay Masquerade Ball to dance into the New Year.
2. St Andrew Square
There are so many Christmas lights to see in St Andrew Square, it’s insane. Close by to The Dome, the square boasts a multitude of restaurants and hotels, and the square itself is majestically decorated every year. We’re excited to see what The Ivy is doing this year, and Cheval The Edinburgh Grand is always worth a visit inside with their massive Christmas tree. and while you’re there, pop up to The Register Club for their fantastic cocktails on the historic building’s top floor.
3. Christmas at the Botanics
The Chrismassy experience at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh transports guests into another fairy-tale-like world, sparking that magical feeling of childhood wonder in everyone who enters. Christmas at the Botanics is back for one more year, and this time, hosting an array of festive favourites like the tunnel of sparkling lights, the colourful projection onto the front of Inverleith House and the captivating Christmas Cathedral amongst other world-renowned artists. The one-mile trail is running between November 16 and December 30, taking guests on a wonderful journey filled with festive cheer.
4. Castle of Light
Castle of Light: Magic And Mystery is going to bring a whole new side to the famous Edinburgh landmark with a cheerful light trail within the castle grounds. The experience showcases the castle’s stories as a ‘defender of the nation’, some historic moments dating back 800 years will be displayed through various themed light installations. Castle of Light will run every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from November 24 until January 3, excluding Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and January 1. The 60-minute light trail will provide an unforgettable experience for all ages, with captivating projections telling stories of Scotland’s rich history. What better way to see Christmas lights in Edinburgh than within its most famous landmark!
5. Beecraigs Festive Forest
The festive experience featuring a light trail and a myriad of other activities will run from 4pm between December 1 and December 23, offering visitors the chance to be transported to a fairy tale land deep into the woods of Beecraigs Country Park near Linlithgow. And there is a host of other attractions: the longest light tunnel in Scotland, Radio Forth’s Silent Disco, a Cala Homes live music stage with DJ, musicians, choirs and fire performers there to liven up the party that not even Grinch could resist. We’ll see you there!