What's on Edinburgh December 2023?

In December 2023, Edinburgh was a festive wonderland featuring the iconic Christmas Markets in Princes Street Gardens (Nov 17–Dec 30), the dazzling Christmas at the Botanics trail (Nov 16–Dec 30), and the musical Wicked at the Edinburgh Playhouse (Dec 7–Jan 14). Other highlights included Castle of Light at Edinburgh Castle and the Bay City Rollers.

Is it worth going to Edinburgh in December?

A trip to Edinburgh in winter is as magical as it gets. A glorious time of year to visit, there's something undeniably special about winter in the Scottish capital – the summer crowds have faded, yet the city remains as lively as ever.

What to do in Edinburgh over Christmas?

Edinburgh Christmas events outside of the market

• Christmas at the Botanics.
• Edinburgh Castle's Castle of Light.
• Make Your Own Chocolate Bar at The Chocolatarium.
• HelloArt Christmas Market.
• The Lauriston Castle Christmas Magic Show.
• Tea Green Winter Market at the National Galleries of Scotland.

What to do in Edinburgh for 3 days in December?

The Best Things to Do in Edinburgh in Winter

• 'Coorie in' at a cosy pub. A wee whisky- perfect for warming you up on the inside! ...
• Edinburgh's Christmas Market. ...
• Christmas Lights at Edinburgh Royal Botanic Gardens. ...
• Johnny Walker Experience. ...
• Edinburgh Castle. ...
• Walk up Calton Hill. ...
• National Museum of Scotland. ...
• Celebrate Burns Night.

Is there an Edinburgh Christmas Market?

Edinburgh Christmas Market, East Princes Street Gardens

With the soaring Scott Monument and the city's majestic skyline as its backdrop, East Princes Street Gardens hosts the Traditional Christmas Market.

19 Tips I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Edinburgh

Where is the most Christmassy place in Scotland?

Edinburgh is widely considered Scotland's most Christmassy place, transforming into a magical winter wonderland with its famous Christmas Market in Princes Street Gardens, ice rink, giant wheel, festive lights on the Royal Mile, and numerous events. Other top contenders for festive cheer include the Cairngorms for its reindeer and snowy landscapes, Oban for its community-focused Winter Festival, and charming local streets like Lavender Drive in Newton Mearns known for spectacular lights.
 

Can you see the northern lights in Edinburgh in December?

Yes, you can see the Northern Lights in Scotland, especially in remote northern areas away from light pollution during the autumn and winter months. The best viewing conditions occur on clear, dark nights between September and March, particularly in the Highlands, Orkney, Shetland, and Outer Hebrides.

What time is the Edinburgh Castle light show?

Edinburgh Castle lights up for special events like "Castle of Light," which usually has timed entries starting around 4:30 PM and running into the evening, with specific dates often in late autumn/winter. Normally, the castle is floodlit, but lighting times depend on the season and special events, so check Historic Environment Scotland for current event schedules or general floodlighting times as daylight fades.
 

How many days is enough in Edinburgh?

For a solid introduction to Edinburgh's highlights, 2-3 days are usually enough to see the Castle, Royal Mile, and Calton Hill, but 3-5 days allow for deeper exploration of neighborhoods like Leith, museums, Arthur's Seat, and day trips, providing a much richer experience without feeling rushed. A week or more lets you truly savor the city, explore hidden gems, and even venture further afield for Scottish culture.

What are three popular Christmas activities in Scotland?

While most families will have their own take on the classic traditions, many will take part in these popular ones:

• Sharing a traditional Christmas Day meal with family and friends.
• Exchanging gifts and cards with loved ones.
• Decorating a Christmas tree (some Scots will even pick out a real tree)

Does Edinburgh have winter Wonderland?

From Saturday 15th November 2025 to Sunday 4th January 2026, Edinburgh will transform into a fictional Christmas wonderland- just like the ones you've seen before, filled with iconic Christmas markets, festive events, and seasonal experiences perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.

Is it good to spend Christmas in Edinburgh?

Visiting Edinburgh at Christmastime is one of my favourite places to be. Twinkling lights, historic streets, superb shopping and a wonderful Christmas market make Scotland's capital the perfect winter city break.

How to dress in Edinburgh in December?

Dressing in layers, including a warm coat, hat, gloves and scarf, will keep you comfortable. What should I wear when visiting Edinburgh in winter? Layering is essential. Start with a thermal base layer or long-sleeved top, add a warm jumper or fleece and finish with a waterproof, windproof coat.

When to avoid Scottish highlands?

Midges like warm, damp weather, so they are generally at their worst between the end of May and the end of August in the Scottish Highlands.

How long does it take to walk around Arthur's seat?

Climbing to the top of Arthur's Seat and back takes about two hours, or you can choose a low-level, easier option. Get in touch to find out more, or visit the Arthur's Seat walking tours page.

What happens at 1pm at Edinburgh Castle?

The firing of the gun dates back to 1861, when businessman John Hewat brought the idea to Edinburgh from Paris. The gun is still fired every day at 1pm, except on Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day. Crowds gather to enjoy the spectacle – and the sound often surprises people on Princes Street below.

Will it snow in Edinburgh in December?

Does it snow in Edinburgh during December? Possibly. There's a chance of snow during December but not as much as you might think. Check the local forecast before you leave home so that you can pack appropriate footwear and clothing.

Is Edinburgh still Christmassy in January?

Yes, Edinburgh retains a festive, "Christmassy" feel into early January, with its main Winter Festival attractions and Christmas Markets typically running until around January 4th, featuring lights, ice skating, markets, and fairground rides, though the core festivities wind down after the New Year's Hogmanay celebrations conclude. The atmosphere is magical, but the main events shut down shortly after the holiday, leaving the general ambiance but not all attractions past the first few days of the month. 

Is it a good idea to go to Scotland in December?

Scotland in winter is simply magical. The weather may be chilly, but the welcome will be warm. We've got a great line up of winter events, activities and days out all waiting for you.

Do I need cash for the Edinburgh Christmas Market?

You can use both cash and card at the Edinburgh Christmas Market, but cards (especially contactless/phone payments) are widely accepted and often preferred, though it's wise to carry some cash for smaller stalls, emergencies, or patchy Wi-Fi/signal issues. Most major stalls and attractions take cards, but some smaller vendors might be cash-only or have minimum card spends. 

Do you have to pay to get into the distillery Christmas Market?

General admission is $15 plus HST and admin fee during select peak periods between Nov. 21 and Dec. 31, with free entry at other times and for children nine and under. Organizers say ticket revenue funds more than 700 seasonal staff and covers operational costs, including security and paid duty officers.

Do you have to book Edinburgh Fringe?

You have a show in a venue in Edinburgh. It's either free, in which case people just turn up and pay by donation at the end, or it's in a paid venue, in which case people have to book and pay for tickets in advance either at the Fringe Box office, online, on phone, or at venue.