Please be advised that Edinburgh city centre is becoming a low emissions zone (LEZ). All vehicles entering the city centre zone area must now meet the less-polluting emission standards or face a penalty charge. To check if your car meets LEZ emissions standards, please visit www.edinburgh.gov.uk/lez
Edinburgh Christmas Festival
Edinburgh At Christmas
Edinburgh Christmas festival is a winter celebration full of seasonal entertainment and fun. From mid-November through to early January, the city is transformed with festive lights, markets, fairground rides and a programme of exciting events and celebrations.
Edinburgh Christmas Market
The Christmas Market in East Princes Street Gardens is a popular part of the celebrations. Here, you can soak up the festive atmosphere, do some Christmas shopping, have some delicious food and drink and enjoy the rides and attractions.
Festive Shows and Events
From the annual King’s Panto, to the latest hit musical at The Playhouse, there is always something spectacular to see at the theatre. There’s also an official programme of Edinburgh’s Christmas shows and events, some free and some ticketed, taking place across the city.
Christmas Lights
Christmas begins at the amazing annual Light Night ceremony in November, where the lights are officially switched on. Including a beautiful fireworks display and the lighting of the enormous Christmas tree on The Mound.
Some attractions, for example Edinburgh Zoo and The Royal Botanic Gardens, put on stunning winter trails over the festive season. So you can see these places is in a whole new light as day turns to night.
Decorations all Round
Many of the local businesses also go to town with their own decorations. The Dome, a restaurant and cocktail bar on George Street, is famous for its magnificent display. With sparkling lights wrapped around huge pillars outside, and even a festive scent which hits you as you walk into the grand entrance hall. What’s more, Princes Street department store Jenner’s erects its own huge tree, one of the biggest around!
‘Love love love the markets! Now a fundamental part of our Christmas routine. We love wandering around the stalls, eating far too much delicious street food and just embracing the Christmas spirit.’
– Edinburgh Christmas Market Tripadvisor Review
Christmas Accommodation
Parliament House Hotel is located just a few minutes’ walk from the Christmas Markets and all the festive fun. So, check out our latest offers here. We’d love to welcome you for this magical season!
