Edinburgh is made for winter. From late November the city wraps itself in lights, the Christmas Market fills Princes Street Gardens, and the calendar builds towards the biggest New Year’s party on earth. We’ve sorted 34 festive things to do into eight easy categories — markets and lights, food and drink, shows, outdoor skating and walks, seasonal festivals, shopping, Hogmanay, and a practical planning guide — so you can build the perfect festive trip.
Festive Things to Do in Edinburgh by Category
Christmas Markets & Lights
Festive FavouriteThe Edinburgh Christmas Market, the Dome, George Street lights and the city’s best illuminations and light trails.
Festive Food & Drink
Cosy & WarmMonster hot chocolates, hot toddies, whisky bars, Johnnie Walker and the best festive turkey dinners in town.
Christmas Shows & Entertainment
For All AgesPantomime, Christmas shows, festive films, silent discos and film screenings in cosy Edinburgh pubs.
Ice Skating & Winter Walks
Get OutdoorsThe George Street ice rink, the Botanics light trail, and crisp winter climbs up Calton Hill and Arthur’s Seat.
Winter Festivals & Events
Seasonal EventsDiwali, the Christmas lights switch-on, meeting Santa, the Santa Run, Hanukkah and the city’s seasonal festivals.
Christmas Shopping & Photo Spots
Shop & SnapFestive shopping streets, the Britannia, and the prettiest photo spots like Circus Lane and Calton Hill in winter.
Hogmanay & New Year
New YearThe Torchlight Procession, the world-famous Street Party, the Candlelit Concert at St Giles’ and the Loony Dook.
Winter Planning Guide
Know Before You GoWeather, what to pack, Christmas Day opening hours, and how to get to and around Edinburgh over the festive season.
Compare Festive Categories at a Glance
| Category | Best For | Cost | Where |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christmas Markets & Lights | Festive Favourite | Free entry | 📍 Princes St |
| Festive Food & Drink | Cosy & Warm | £–£££ | 📍 Citywide |
| Christmas Shows & Entertainment | For All Ages | ££ | 📍 Citywide |
| Ice Skating & Winter Walks | Get Outdoors | £–Free | 📍 George St |
| Winter Festivals & Events | Seasonal Events | Varies | 📍 Citywide |
| Christmas Shopping & Photo Spots | Shop & Snap | £–£££ | 📍 Stockbridge |
| Hogmanay & New Year | New Year | ££–£££ | 📍 City Centre |
| Winter Planning Guide | Know Before You Go | Free | 📍 Practical |
How to Choose What to Do
If it’s your first festive visit, start with Christmas Markets & Lights — the market, the Dome and the George Street lights are the heart of Edinburgh at Christmas. Travelling with children? The Winter Festivals & Events category covers meeting Santa and the lights switch-on. And if you’re here for New Year, everything you need is in the Hogmanay & New Year guide. Before you pack, read the Winter Planning Guide for weather, opening hours and transport.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Edinburgh for Christmas?
The Christmas Market and lights run from mid-November to early January. Early December is quieter and cheaper; the week before Christmas is busiest. For New Year, arrive around 29–31 December for the Torchlight Procession and Street Party.
Is Edinburgh’s Christmas Market free?
Yes, entry to the Edinburgh Christmas Market in Princes Street Gardens is free — you only pay for food, drink and the funfair rides. See our Markets & Lights guide for details.
What is open on Christmas Day in Edinburgh?
Very little — trains stop, buses run a skeleton service, and major attractions close. Our Winter Planning Guide lists exactly what stays open.