Edinburgh's Christmas festivities, widely regarded as one of the UK's best and most scenic winter festivals, begin this weekend on Saturday, November 14, and run until January 3. The event, which first launched in 1999, has grown into a large-scale celebration that attracts visitors from around the world.
Festive Attractions Across the City Centre
The city centre is filled with traditional markets, funfair rides, attractions, music concerts, community events and family-friendly performances, all set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle and the Georgian streets. Visitors can enjoy a drink at the Polar Ice Bar or the Coorie Inn, or take part in pub quizzes, wreath-making and candle-making workshops. For those seeking more excitement, there is a big wheel, a Helter Skelter, a vintage carousel, waltzers and dodgems.
The festivities are spread across several locations, including West Princes Street Gardens, East Princes Street Gardens, George Street and Bistro Square, all transformed for the festive season.
Opening Hours and Key Dates
East Princes Street Gardens will operate daily from 10am to 10pm, with some changes during Christmas week. It will be closed on Christmas Day. On Christmas Eve, it will be open from 10am to 8pm, and on Boxing Day from 12pm to 8pm. New Year's Eve hours are 10am to 5pm, and New Year's Day hours are 12pm to 8pm. The closing day, January 3, will be open from 10am to 8pm.
West Princes Street Gardens has different timings. From November 14 until December 6, it will be open from 12pm to 8pm Monday to Wednesday, 12pm to 9pm Thursday to Friday, and 10am to 9pm Saturday and Sunday. From December 7 to December 18, it will be open from 12pm to 9pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 9pm Saturday and Sunday. It will also be closed on Christmas Day. The Coorie Inn on George Street will be open daily from 12pm until late, and will be closed until December 25.
Getting to Edinburgh Christmas
Visitors have been encouraged to check the opening hours when planning their visit, as they are subject to change. Lothian Buses operates over 70 bus routes in and around Edinburgh, and trams are also available with stops at St Andrew Square, Princes Street and the West End. Edinburgh Waverley train station is roughly a two-minute walk from East Princes Street Gardens, and the closest coach terminal is Edinburgh Bus Station, about a six-minute walk from the events. There are no dedicated car parks for the event, though numerous car parks are available throughout the city centre.
