Edinburgh Christmas Market 2025: Confirmed Dates: 15th November

Edinburgh’s winter festivals, which span from November to January, combining Christmas and Hogmanay, are among the best times to visit the city. You can select from a variety of events and activities.

The Edinburgh Christmas Market is one of the most popular events, and in this guide, I list the confirmed dates for 2025, along with opening times and locations.

Dietary Options

Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options as is typical in Edinburgh.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten-free: Yes, but limited. Ask before ordering.

Accessibility

Accessible: Yes. There is ramp access and spaces for 2 wheelchair users in every standard session.
Quiet sessions: Smaller capacity sessions with ambient lighting and sound. Schedule to be announced.
Pet-friendly: Dogs are allowed on a lead.

Read our UK Christmas Markets List for additional places to go this winter.

To stay in the region, our guide to Christmas Markets in Scotland can help you plan.

Location Map

Captured a moment that embodies the holiday season? Tag your photos with #UltimateChristmasMarkets — we can’t wait to see your festive finds!

What to Expect

About the Market

Experiencing Christmas in Edinburgh is undoubtedly an end-of-year highlight. You’ll find classic mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, festive lights, live music, ice skating, rides, and Santa Stories; there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The market offers traditional snacks, interesting gifts and stocking fillers, as well as unique souvenirs.

Food Specialties

• Haggis: The traditional Scottish dish with sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs mixed with onions, oatmeal, and spices, served with neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes).
• Cranachan: A Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, honey, toasted oatmeal, raspberries, and a dash of whisky.
• Mince pies: Bite-sized pies filled with dried fruits and spices, best served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or brandy butter.
• Shortbread: The classic buttery and crumbly Scottish biscuit made with sugar, flour, and butter, often served as a snack or with tea.

Food and Drink Stalls

• Hot toddy: A warm and soothing drink made with whisky, honey, and lemon, often served in a glass mug, is a Scottish classic perfect for sipping while chatting with friends.
• Irn-Bru fudge: It’s a sweet and creamy fudge infused with the unique flavour of Scottish Irn-Bru.
• Scottish tablet: A traditional Scottish confectionery similar to fudge but with a firmer and crumblier texture.
• German-style bratwurst: A grilled sausage served on a fresh bread roll, often topped with onions and mustard, is a classic street food found on marketplaces.
• Crepes: French-style pancakes filled with sweet or savoury toppings, such as Nutella, bananas or ham and cheese. They’re made to order at the markets.
• Roasted chestnuts: A classic winter snack, roasted chestnuts are sold in paper cones.
• Mulled wine: Hot red wine infused with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus peel is a popular German specialty.

Gifts and Souvenirs

• Tartan accessories: Scotland is famous for its tartan patterns, and you can find a range of tartan scarves, hats, gloves, and bags at the market. These make great souvenirs or gifts for friends and family, even if they’re a bit clichéd.
• Whisky and gin: Scotland is also known for its spirits, and you can find a variety of locally produced bottles at the market.
• Edinburgh Gin baubles: A unique gift, these Christmas baubles are filled with Edinburgh Gin and come in flavours that include rhubarb and ginger, pomegranate and rose and classic gin.
• Scottish knitwear: Another traditional Scottish item, cosy knitwear, including jumpers, cardigans, and hats, can be found at some stalls.

Personal Insights

On my first visit to Edinburgh, travel was quite a new experience, making everything seem particularly exciting.

Wandering around Edinburgh Castle, exploring the cultural experiences at the museums, and indulging in the fantastic food were highlights for me. There’s just so much to do.

I’ve been amazed at how vibrant and busy the city is in winter. Of course, the weather can be a bit gloomy during this time of year, but that’s to be expected and doesn’t detract from the city’s appeal.

Edinburgh always has something new happening, making every visit a unique experience.

Travel Information

Here are some more details on some of the top things to do in Edinburgh in winter:

• Edinburgh Castle is a must-visit attraction all year round, and winter is no exception. The castle has stunning city views, and you can explore its history with a skip-the-line tour. This is by far the most famous sight in the city.
• Ice skating at the George Street ice rink is a popular winter activity. Festive decorations surround the rink, and special events, such as ice discos, are often held there.
• The Christmas Tree Maze at West Princes Street Gardens is a fun and festive activity for all ages. You can navigate through the maze and take in the pretty decorations along the way.
• Santa’s Grotto is also located at West Princes Street Gardens and is perfect for families with young children. Meet Santa and his elves and take a few photos.
• The Festive Light Trail is a unique way to explore the city. It runs throughout and features unique light displays and installations.
• Winter Village at Edinburgh Zoo also has some exciting winter-specific events, including its own Christmas market, ice rink, Santa’s Grotto and Breakfast with the Clauses. Book online before you go. Dates: 30th November to 5th January 2026 (unconfirmed).
• Finally, the Royal Botanic Garden is a stunning escape from the city and an excellent way to connect with nature. The garden is a living museum of plants, and special events are often held, such as Christmas at the Botanics. Dates: 14th November to 30th December 2025 (unconfirmed).

Sustainability

• Eco-friendly Stays: Hotels in Edinburgh often provide information on their sustainability practices. Book a place powered by renewable energy sources, such as wind power, which is relatively common in Scotland.
• Minimising Food Waste: The markets in Edinburgh are a feast for the senses. Instead of overbuying, try sharing portions. Many stalls provide small-sized servings, making it easy to sample various dishes without wasting food.
• Mindful Spending: Be selective with what you buy. Prioritise items that are both local and made from sustainable materials.
• Plant-based Options: Edinburgh has an increasing number of vegan and vegetarian eateries, which generally have a lower environmental impact.
• Transport: Edinburgh boasts an extensive and efficient public transportation network, comprising buses and trams. Walking is also an excellent option, as many events take place around the city centre.

If you have visited Edinburgh in winter or would like to share your review, please comment below. This will help others interested in visiting and planning their holiday.

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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.