Now that October is here, we can start talking about the C-word. We can start getting cosy, hang out in candlelight, wear cosy socks and do other ‘Hygge-like’ things. As the city centre will be transformed into a winter wonderland lighting our way into the festive season, November is a well-anticipated month for most residents. Edinburgh Christmas markets are just a month away, and Edinburgh’s Christmas organisers Unique Events and Assembly Festival have got quite the line-up this year.
When is Edinburgh’s Christmas 2024?
This year, Edinburgh Christmas is on from November 15, 2024, until January 4, 2025. As well as the traditional locations on Princes Street, St Andrew Square and George Street, new sites will also be introduced throughout the city centre.
On Instagram, Edinburgh’s Christmas announced on August 26: “It’s not long until Edinburgh is filled with festive cheer once more. Join us from Friday 15 November 2024 – Saturday 04 January 2025 as we make the city merry and bright!
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Do you sell the perfect holiday gifts or delicious winter warmers? All we want for Christmas is you! Applications to trade with us are now open, head to our website to find out more and apply now.”
East Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market
Last year, East Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market was there for the whole duration, and is the traditional Edinburgh Christmas Market with around 80 stalls offering local and international handmade gifts, bespoke products, tasty treats and hot and cold drinks (bring on the mulled wine!). The market also welcomed the Big Wheel, Scotland’s largest Ferris wheel at 46m tall which offers market-goers a special perspective of the city.
West Princes Street Gardens Family Funfair
The Family Funfair featured funfair rides in 2023 and attractions, festive food and drink stalls. The area also offered a wee illuminated trail, including Edinburgh’s Nativity Scene and Gardeners’ Cottage, with some Christmas-themed photo opportunities along the way.
St Andrew Square Winter Garden
The details for this year have not yet been released. Last year, Santa came back to Edinburgh Christmas, and resided at St Andrew Square. Santa and some very helpful elves welcomed children and families, providing a magical Christmas experience and telling stories. Plus, visitors found a 10-meter Christmas tree!
The spirit of giving continues with Social Bite’s Festival of Kindness, with the 10m tall Kindness Tree, where visitors can show kindness at the Gift Donation point, dedicated to spreading goodwill to those who need it most.
George Street West & Castle Street
The full details for this year are not yet out. Last year, George Street became home to the beloved Edinburgh’s Christmas Ice Rink. After the session, skaters could also indulge in a hot drink or treat from food stalls in George Street warming zones, and take a ride on a fairground ride, including a double carousel.
There was also an Artisan Christmas Market on Castle Street, showcasing essential Christmas items from Edinburgh’s New Town shopping street.
