Christmas Markets, Edinburgh, 2024, is coming to fruition fast. Popping up left, right and centre like fireworks, these Christmas Markets in Edinburgh draw people worldwide to witness their sparkle and sizzle. Everything about what there is to do in Edinburgh during the season of giving will be included in this article.
From the upcoming Christmas markets in Edinburgh to walking through winter wonderlands, if you’re looking for an in-depth look at what this vibrant Scottish city offers, you’ve stumbled upon the right article. Edinburgh’s winter festivals span from November to January, merging the festivities of Hogmanay and Christmas. That’s good news, right? But where to begin? Well, let’s just start already! Here is what’s on offer, and guess what? It’s much more than just Christmas Markets in Edinburgh.
Torchlight Procession
Want to give back this Christmas while simultaneously building memories? Then, this fun event will indeed hit that spot. The Torchlight Procession will take place on the 29th of December and will be organised by Edinburgh’s Hogmanay in partnership with EventScotland, a division of VisitScotland. This organisation aims to raise funds for OneCity Trust, When You Wish Upon A Star, Social Bite, and Simon Community Scotland.
Each torch sold will raise £2 for charity, while Procession tickets will raise £1.50. It is hoped that the 20,000 participants will raise around £55,000 for the four charity institutions. Noble, right? But not just that, you get to participate in active change for those who need it most. Not to mention the beauty of this procession, the camaraderie, and the change one small act can bring upon the world. This Torchlight Procession provides a different take on what it means to visit Christmas Markets in Edinburgh. The procession will begin at The Meadows at 6 pm and end underneath Edinburgh Castle around 8.30 pm.
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Christmas at the Botanics
This Christmas market will be taking place at the Royal Botanic Garden from the 15th of November to the 30th of December 2024. Here, a world of after-dark, festive fun in a botanical world awaits. Think Alice in Wonderland meets Enchanted Forest. Christmas at the Botanics was created by award-winning, internationally acclaimed light trail producers and is firmly believed to be a must-do event on Scotland’s seasonal calendar.
It has everything you need for an unforgettable time with friends and family, including a magical glimpse of Father Christmas. Discover the flickering candles flying high into the night sky, batons of colour-changing light dancing in time, a dazzling flock of merry robins, and a sea of light stretching out into the distance, filled with every hue of the rainbow.
Grab a seasonal nibble from one of the carefully selected street food sellers, who add an indulgent touch to the tantalising goods on sale. Complete your walk under the stars with a deliciously festive spiced winter warmer, hot chocolate, or toasted marshmallow, which you may share with someone special. By participating in this world-renowned event, you also help to fund the vital plant conservation work of the Botanics, a registered Scottish charity. Doing good this Christmas season has never been easier.
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East Princes Street Gardens Christmas Markets
Edinburgh’s East Princes Street Gardens Christmas market will be open from November 15 to January 4. West Princes Street Gardens will be open starting November 16. Organisers have stated that an entrance system would be in place at peak periods and that large groups or persons who want to spend their time browsing the markets can do so leisurely.
East Princes Street houses some of the best stalls and vendors selling handmade gifts, new and pre-loved clothing, classic festive foods like bratwurst, jewellery, and local crafts. Moreover, if you want to find unique, artisan holiday gifts, Princess Street is the place to be. Who can say they bought your Christmas gift with the grand Edinburgh Castle as their backdrop? Access this Christmas market in Edinburgh easily from Waverly Station or other city centre attractions.
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St Andrew Square
St Andrew Square is home to one of the United Kingdom’s most extensive lit Christmas Tree paths, offering families a popular seasonal attraction and Christmas picture opportunities in the city’s centre. You can buy tickets for the Christmas Tree Maze online or at the maze’s entrance, but it is advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
You’ll find the entrance and exit for the Christmas Tree Maze on the east side of St Andrew Square. Also note that the time displayed on your ticket reflects the Maze’s opening time: 10 am. The ticket is valid for one visit at any time of the day, so be sure to select the best-suited date when booking because it cannot be used any other day. So, anywhere from 23 November to 24 December 2024, you can visit this must-see attraction for a very merry time, anytime.
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George Street
From November 22 to January 4, the famous Edinburgh’s Christmas Ice Rink will be located on George Street. The Edinburgh Christmas Ice Rink is a cherished winter attraction, adding to the city’s festive atmosphere. It’s an atmosphere that truly is something to behold. The ice rink is set against the city’s elegant Georgian architecture and festive lights, creating a magical festive ambience for the highly anticipated festive season.
Around the rink, pop-up food and drink stalls offer festive treats like mulled wine, hot chocolate, and seasonal snacks, making it easy to warm up after skating. Interestingly, certain restaurants along George Street also participate, offering winter menus. Purchase your tickets online, but book in advance, as the time slots can fill up quickly. So, how long does a skating session at the Edinburgh Ice Rink last? Typically between 45 minutes to an hour. The rink is open from 22 November to 4 January, operating daily.
If you enjoy this article, be sure to read about unforgettabale Christmas markets in Paris!
Top Christmas Markets in Edinburgh
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Christmas Markets in Edinburgh are aplenty, and yes, you need to visit all of them! Whether you’re in search of unique gifts, seasonal flavours, or simply looking to bask in the glow of Edinburght’s festive lights, the city’s Christmas markets have something for everyone! However, if shopping around is not your only operative this festive season, hopefully this article provided you with many more delightful experiences to partake in.
