It may only be June but already the arrangements for Edinburgh’s Christmas have been announced.
All festivities will begin on 15 November and run until 4 January 2026.
Roddy Smith, Chief Executive of Essential Edinburgh said: “Edinburgh’s Christmas is always a highlight of the year within our city centre. The attractions welcome thousands of residents and visitors to enjoy the most magical time of the year. With Edinburgh’s city centre home to high class retail and hospitality businesses to suit everyone’s tastes, this Christmas promises to be another fantastic time to visit and enjoy the best of Edinburgh.”
Unique Assembly, producers of Edinburgh’s Christmas said: “We are thrilled to share this year’s dates for Edinburgh’s Christmas celebrations, with a seven-week programme packed full of family favourites, plus new events and attractions to be announced. This year’s event promises to be one of the best ever and we look forward to welcoming everyone to enjoy some sparkle as the nights close in.”
- Family favourites which will be back to entertain everyone at the end of the year include Santa Stories, Ice Skating, LNER Big Wheel, Around the World Starflyer and the Family Festive Funfair
- Traditional Christmas Markets return to East Princes Street Gardens – organisers open Trader Applications and call for local traders to join the festivities
- Local EH Resident Discount returns to spread extra Christmas cheer across the city
- Tickets go on sale from July – register now to receive 48hours advance access and discounts.
Councillor Margaret Graham, Culture and Communities Convener, said: “This year Edinburgh’s Christmas looks set to light up the city centre once again with an exciting programme of events for everyone to enjoy. I’m really pleased that the Edinburgh community will be a focus too, with discounted tickets, offers for local groups and fund-raising for local charities taking place. The Capital truly is a magical place to be at this time of year and there’s so much on offer throughout the city.”
Lawrence Thorburn, owner of Edinburgh’s Nutcracker Christmas Shop said: “As local business owners, we are thrilled to see the return of Edinburgh’s Christmas Market this winter. We have already submitted an application for what will be our 12th season at the Edinburgh’s Christmas Market. As a local, family business, with permanent premises in the city we welcome the opportunity to showcase our products and provide Christmas gifts to such a large audience. Working with Unique Assembly over the past three years, we have seen the Market go from strength to strength and we are keen to return, looking forward to welcoming locals and visitors from around the world. The event has become imperative for our small family business and our team look forward to taking part each year.”
Register now to receive updates, be the first to hear when tickets are about to go on sale, and access a limited opening ticket discount by signing up here – www.edinburghwinterfestivals.com
