Edinburgh Christmas Market 2023 – Region Scotland, United Kingdom
Santa Land returns to East Princes Street Gardens with rides for people of all ages to enjoy whilst Santa’s Grotto once again takes residence on Castle Street. Reimagined Light Night will be opening Edinburgh Christmas Market 2023 with an event spectacular on the Royal Mile on 15 November. Brand new Community Christmas will be spreading festive cheer across 12 locations in the capital with special projections and performances bringing local talent together.
There are free events including the Night Light switch-on (to be confirmed), nativity Carol Concerts and more. Edinburgh Christmas Market in 2023 normally kicks off mid-November so there’s plenty of time to get into the spirit of things! Read on for some of our favourite things to do in Edinburgh at Christmas. We also made a video just for you – scroll to the end!
Taking place in the majestic grounds of Hopetoun House, this special event will see the grounds extensively lit up with features and effects to create a magical, mystical woodland journey. As you explore the wandering trails, marvel at the creative lighting, sound and special effects, movement and installations – all of which enhance the nature and natural beauty of these 300-year-old woods.
Edinburgh Christmas Market 2023 Events
Edinburgh’s Christmas season launches on the second last Sunday of November with an event called Light Night, the highlight of the event being a fireworks display and the switch on of the Christmas lights in the city.
There are also carol services held at St. Giles’ Cathedral and other locations in the city throughout the month of December. Check out Edinburgh’s Christmas for a full list of Christmas events and attractions.
For a truly magical experience, check out Christmas at the Botanics. Every year, Edinburgh’s botanic garden is turned into an enchanted forest for the festive season.
Meanwhile, Edinburgh Zoo hosts a colourful exhibition of large animal lanterns, called Giant Lanterns, which normally runs from November till February. And Edinburgh Castle hosts Castle of Light, a colourful celebration of storytelling through lighting installations on the castle’s ancient walls.