The Magic of Edinburgh's Christmas Market
Imagine a place where the air smells like cinnamon and chocolate, twinkling lights are everywhere, and the sound of Christmas carols fills your ears. This magical place exists, and it's called the Edinburgh Christmas Market. Every year, from mid-November to early January, the heart of Scotland's capital city transforms into a winter wonderland that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Where is the Christmas Market?
The main Christmas Market is located in East Princes Street Gardens, right in the centre of Edinburgh. This is a beautiful park that sits between the old and new parts of the city. On one side, you can see the famous Edinburgh Castle on its rocky hill. On the other side are the fancy shops of Princes Street. The market spreads out through the gardens, creating a festive village full of lights, food stalls, rides and carnival-style games.
What Can You Find at the Market?
The Edinburgh Christmas Market is like a small town made just for the holidays. There are over 100 little wooden stalls, each one decorated with lights and greenery. These stalls sell all sorts of things, from Christmas decorations to handmade crafts. You can find Scottish souvenirs like tartan scarves and whisky-flavored tablet fudge, or gifts from other countries like German nutcrackers and Italian glass ornaments.
One of the best things about the market is the food. There are stalls selling all kinds of tasty treats. You can try traditional Scottish foods like haggis (a savory pudding made with sheep organs - it tastes better than it sounds!) or shortbread cookies. There are also foods from other countries, like German bratwurst sausages, Dutch poffertjes (tiny, fluffy pancakes), and French crepes.
To keep warm, you can buy hot drinks like mulled wine (for grown-ups) or hot chocolate with marshmallows. Some stalls even sell hot apple cider, mead or special Christmas tea blends. The smell of these warm drinks mixes with the scent of roasting chestnuts and fresh pine trees to create a perfect Christmas atmosphere.
Fun Activities at the Market
The Edinburgh Christmas Market isn't just about shopping and eating. There are lots of fun activities too. One of the most popular is the big Ferris wheel, called the Edinburgh Eye. From the top, you can see amazing views of the whole city lit up for Christmas. It's a bit chilly up there, but the view is worth it!
For kids (and brave adults), there's a Christmas tree maze. You have to find your way through a forest of real pine trees, solving riddles as you go. It's fun and smells great too!
Throughout the market, you'll find street performers and musicians. You might see jugglers, magicians, or carol singers. Sometimes, there are even people dressed up as Christmas characters, like elves or snowmen. They're happy to pose for photos with you.
Special Events at the Market
The Edinburgh Christmas Market hosts special events throughout the season. One of the most exciting is the Light Night, which usually happens in mid-November. This is when all the Christmas lights in the city are switched on for the first time. There's a big ceremony with music and fireworks.
Another fun event is the Santa Run, where hundreds of people dressed as Santa Claus run through the city to raise money for charity. It's a funny sight to see so many Santas running past the market stalls!
On weekends, there are often workshops where you can learn to make Christmas crafts. You might decorate cookies, make your own Christmas cards, or create ornaments for your tree. These workshops are usually free, but you might need to sign up in advance.
Market stalls and smaller children's rides are also spread over on Castle Street and the ice skating village is set up on George Street. You can hire skates or sit by the rink with a mulled wine and watch the more adventurous speed around on the rink. There are even penguin aids to help children have a go.
Tips for Visiting the Market
If you're planning to visit the Edinburgh Christmas Market, and we highly recommend you do, here are some helpful tips:
Dress warmly! Edinburgh can be very cold in winter, especially at night. Wear layers, and don't forget a hat, scarf, and gloves.
Bring cash. While many stalls accept cards, some only take cash. There are ATMs nearby on Princes Street, but they can have long lines.
Try to visit on a weekday if you can. Weekends and evenings can be very crowded, especially closer to Christmas.
Don't be afraid to try new foods. The market is a great place to taste things you've never had before.
Take your time. There's a lot to see and do, so don't rush. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and the beautiful decorations.
If you want to go on the Ferris wheel or ice skating, book your tickets in advance, our tour desk can assist. This can save you time and sometimes money too.
Keep an eye on your belongings. Like any crowded place, pickpockets sometimes operate in the market.
Take lots of photos! The market is beautiful, especially at night when all the lights are on.
The Edinburgh Christmas Market is a magical place that brings the spirit of the holidays to life. Whether you're shopping for gifts, trying new foods, or just soaking up the festive atmosphere, it's an experience you'll never forget. So if you find yourself in Scotland's capital during the holiday season, don't miss this winter wonderland in the heart of the city, and as always, enjoy your stay!
