Top Edinburgh Christmas Market & Winter Festivals

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Must-visit Edinburgh Christmas Market’s

02 November 2023

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Visit this year’s most magical Edinburgh Christmas markets, where you can shop ‘til you drop, gorge yourself on Yuletide treats, be entertained, and see Auld Reekie at its best. Use our guide to plan what’s sure to be some of the best moments of your Christmas in Edinburgh.

Here’s everything you need to know about the best Edinburgh Christmas markets taking place in 2023.

1. East Princes Street Gardens - Edinburgh Christmas Market

Located in Edinburgh’s historic city centre, with stunning views of iconic landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle, the Scott Monument, and the city’s skyline, East Princes Street Gardens welcomes you to its traditional Christmas Market, free for all to enjoy. Around 70 stalls in the market feature some of the finest local and international artisans offering a wide array of items, from handcrafted gifts and bespoke products to delectable treats and delightful beverages.

East Princes Street Gardens is also home to the 46m tall Big Wheel, Scotland's tallest Ferris wheel, offering a unique perspective of the city. The magical Santa Train will also be travelling through an illuminated winter wonderland, with an exciting selection of rides, including a Helter Skelter and the Starflyer for those seeking thrills.

Dates: 18^th of November 2023 - 6^th of January 2024 (close on 25^th December)

Address: Princes Street Gardens, from Waverley Bridge entrance

East Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market in Edinburgh

2. West Princes Street Gardens - Family Funfair

The Family Funfair at the West Princes Street Gardens offers an array of delightful funfair rides and attractions. This family-friendly zone of the Christmas market also features the illuminated pathway and has captivating views of Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town.

Along the trail, you'll encounter installations and inviting stop-off points, including Edinburgh's Nativity Scene and the charming Gardeners' Cottage for some memorable Christmas-themed photos along the way. There are numerous warming zones for everyone to enjoy a delectable hot chocolate or seasonal mulled wine from the festive food and drinks stall in the gardens too.

Dates: 18^th of November 2023 - 6^th of January 2024 (close on 25^th December)

Address: Princes Street Gardens, from Princes Street entrance

3. George Street West & Castle Street

George Street is the place to be for the spectacular Christmas Ice Rink in Edinburgh, a vital part of any winter break. This undercover ice rink, spanning along the George Street between Charlotte Square and Castle Street, is even bigger than last year, allowing more visitors to enjoy the majestic Georgian skyline of Edinburgh’s New Town while gliding on the ice.

4. St Andrew Square Winter Garden

Santa Claus, with his very helpful elves, are back at a cosy corner in St. Andrew Square in Edinburgh for a truly enchanting Christmas experience! Santa’s Stories is a magical storytelling experience where every child has the chance to meet Santa himself, discover the joy of giving, and receive a special gift to cherish.

Right in the square, children can compose heartfelt letters with their Christmas wishes at the special Post-Box & Letter Writing Station. There's also a 10m tall Kindness Tree and Gift Donation
most, spreading the joy of the season.

Dates: 18^th of November - 24^thof December 2023

Address: St Andrew Square, Edinburgh

5. Castle Street Christmas Fair

Held annually since 2007, the Castle Street Christmas Fair has become something of an institution on the Edinburgh Christmas market calendar. Held in the shadow of the castle, the market sees the street lined with colourful stalls selling a variety of goods.

If you’re looking for Christmas shopping with a difference, this is where you’ll find it. Browse the stalls and discover a treasure trove of arts and crafts, jewellery, scented candles, woodwork, and homemade seasonal foods.

Dates: To be confirmed

Address: New Town’s Castle Street, just north of Edinburgh castle

Food stalls at Edinburgh Christmas Market

6. Christmas Arts Markets

If you're in search of a unique gift for an art enthusiast, make sure to explore the Christmas Art Market hosted by Out of the Blue, a community-driven space in Edinburgh. During the Christmas season, over 100 talented artists gather at these 2 weekend events to showcase their paintings, prints, photography, as well as fashion, jewellery, textiles, ceramics, soft furnishings, and design.

Dates: 2^nd, 3^th, 9^th and 10^th of December 2023

Address: Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 8RG

7. Christmas Fair at the Royal Botanic Garden

Christmas at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a magical outdoor illuminated trail that mesmerises visitors every year. You'll discover enormous seed heads soaring into the night sky, a field of oversized glowing crocus flowers, vibrant pampas grass, enchanting light tunnels, and captivating botanical-themed projections at Inverleith House.

Throughout the gardens, you'll find charming wooden cabins offering a delightful Christmas market experience, complete with spiced cider, mulled wine, hot chocolate, and delectable light snacks.

Dates: 16^th of November - 30^th of December 2023

Address: Royal Botanic Garden, Inverleith Row, Edinburgh

Book ticket here!

Family enjoy mulled wine at Christmas market in Edinburgh

8. Edinburgh's Christmas at The Dome

While not necessarily a Christmas market, the Dome restaurant on George Street is a significant component of Edinburgh's outdoor festive celebrations. This renowned establishment is one of the city's most iconic landmarks, and it's a must-see for its grand decorations, often being among the first to be elegantly hang up for the festive season.

Dates: 30^th of October 2023 - 7^th January 2024

Address: The Dome, George Street, Edinburgh

FAQs about Edinburgh Christmas Market

1. Edinburgh Christmas Market 2023 Opening Times

Most Edinburgh Christmas Markets typically open daily at 10am and close at 10pm. However, it's worth checking the official website before your visit.

2. Hotel Near Edinburgh Christmas Market

If you’ve been looking for hotels near the Edinburgh Christmas market, Frasers Suites Edinburgh is the perfect location for you. Whether you’re staying in the Scottish capital with family or friends or on a solo getaway or a family break, you won’t want to miss out on incredible opportunities to experience holiday cheer and seasonal festivities.

Experience Christmas in one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in the world by booking your stay at Fraser Suites Edinburgh. Located in the Old Town, our hotel is the perfect home from home for a festive season you’ll never forget.

Fraser Suites Edinburgh hotel near Christmas market

3. How Busy is the Edinburgh Christmas Market?

Like all Christmas markets, Edinburgh can get quite busy. If you're looking to avoid the crowds, weekdays are the best times to visit. The busiest days are usually the weekends, from Friday to Sunday, as well as the week leading up to Christmas Day.