8 things to do in Scotland this Christmas

Scotland during Christmas is simply enchanting! We’ve got a sleigh-load of ideas to make it extra special🎄

From festive markets and historic castle celebrations to seasonal treats and heartwarming traditions, we’ve got your go-to guide for a magical Scottish holiday season.

So grab a cup of mulled wine and let’s unwrap the beauty, traditions and merriment of a Scottish Christmas!

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1. Christmas at the Castle – Edinburgh Castle

• 
  18th November 2026 – 31st December 2026

Edinburgh Castle is an essential stop year-round, but winter elevates the fortress into something spectacular. Through its ‘Christmas at the Castle’ event, the historic grounds are transformed by towering trees and classic holiday decorations that bring warmth to the ancient stone.

Stepping into the fully decked Great Hall feels like arriving at a royal winter banquet from centuries past. Beyond the mix of Scottish heritage and festive cheer, the castle’s high ramparts offer an unmatched vantage point over the sparkling lights of the city below.

2. Aberdeen Christmas Village

• 
  12th November 2026 – 3rd January 2027

Get ready to unwrap the festive magic at the Aberdeen Christmas Village! Aberdeen is preparing to dazzle with its return of Christmas celebrations this year. One highlight you won’t want to miss is the beloved market set within the Marischal College Quadrangle. This event promises a unique experience each weekend leading up to Christmas, with an array of gift options ranging from arts, crafts, clothing, jewellery and homeware to gourmet food and drink.

No matter your taste, you’ll find something that adds that extra sparkle to your Christmas. Your visit to the Aberdeen Christmas Village promises a delightful day out that truly embodies the spirit of giving and sharing joy. Be sure to mark your calendar for this wonderful celebration!

3. Edinburgh Christmas Market

• 
  14th November 2026 – 3rd January 2027

Wrap up warm and get ready to experience some true Scottish festive magic at the Edinburgh Christmas Market! Running from November through to January, the main festivities take place in the beautiful East Princes Street Gardens. What makes this market truly spectacular is its setting.

Nestled right beneath the iconic, floodlit Edinburgh Castle, it creates one of the most picturesque holiday scenes in Europe. As you wander through the traditional wooden chalets, you’ll find around 70 stalls packed with incredible local crafts, from handmade Celtic jewellery to miniature bottles of Scottish whisky, alongside plenty of delicious street food and mulled wine to keep you cosy.

Beyond the shopping, there’s an amazing lineup of attractions spread across the city centre to keep the whole family entertained. For the best views of the twinkling skyline, you can take a spin on the massive LNER Big Wheel, or brave the 80-metre Star Flyer if you’re feeling adventurous. Just a short walk away on George Street, you can glide through the Family Ice Experience or chill out (literally) in the adults-only Polar Ice Bar, which is kept at a frosty -8°C! Edinburgh certainly turns into a winter wonderland come the festive season, which makes for an unforgettable holiday trip.

4. Glasgow's Winter Wonderland

• 
  20th November 2026 – 3rd January 2027

Get ready to bundle up and embrace the festive spirit, because Glasgow’s Winter Wonderland is bringing all the seasonal magic to the city centre! Spanning two fantastic locations, it’s the perfect excuse to gather your friends and family for some holiday cheer. Over at St Enoch Square, things kick off early in November with a spectacular array of festive stalls, mouth-watering seasonal treats, and a lively Festive Bar. You can even take a spin on the world’s first solar-powered Observation Wheel or enjoy a classic carousel ride while soaking in the twinkling city lights.

If you’re looking for even more winter thrills, head over to Glasgow Green where the excitement continues with an amazing open-air ice rink perfect for showing off your skating skills (or just trying to stay upright!). The Green is also home to the spectacular ‘A Very Merry Circus’ in the Big Top, offering dazzling performances that will leave you amazed. And of course, it wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit to the Big Man himself in his cosy Grotto.

5. IRN-BRU Carnival

• 
  18th December 2026 – 10th January 2027

Add a dash of excitement to your festive season at Europe’s largest indoor funfair – IRN-BRU Carnival in Glasgow! With thrilling rides, fun fair games and a lively carnival atmosphere, this event promises an unforgettable experience for all ages. From the classic carousels to the heart-pounding roller coasters, there’s something for everyone.

The IRN-BRU Carnival is where the magic of the season meets the thrill of the fair, making it an absolute must-visit this Christmas!

6. Christmas at the Botanics – Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

• 
  19th November 2026 – 30th December 2026

Experience the enchantment of Christmas at the Botanics in the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh! This year, you can look forward to breathtaking new displays, a luminous lawn of oversized crocus flowers, vibrant pampas grass, dazzling light tunnels and botanical-themed projections in all the colours of the rainbow.

But the magic doesn’t stop there! To make your journey under the stars even cosier, savour a spiced winter warmer, hot chocolate or toasted marshmallow. It’s the perfect way to share a moment with someone special, creating cherished memories that will warm your heart. Don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of something special this holiday season at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

7. Cairngorm Reindeer Herd

Escape to the magical Cairngorm Reindeer Herd this Christmas, nestled in the breathtaking Cairngorm mountains of Scotland. Britain’s only free-ranging reindeer herd awaits, and they’re not just a festive treat – they’re a year-round delight. These gentle and sociable creatures will warm your heart with their friendly nature. To get up close and personal with these magical animals, embark on a guided Hill Trip.

Be prepared, as winter weather can influence these trips, and sometimes, it may involve a bit of reindeer hide-and-seek. After all, these reindeer are truly free-ranging! It’s an adventure well worth the effort. So, this Christmas, make a date with the Cairngorm Reindeer and embrace the magic of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

8. Bowland Trails Husky Experience

This Christmas, embark on a jolly adventure into the stunning Scottish Highlands with a Husky Experience. If you’ve ever dreamt of dashing through the snow with a team of spirited huskies, now’s your chance! You’ll be treated to a thrilling ride along the scenic trails, as these incredible animals pull you through the winter wonderland. But the adventure doesn’t end there. After the ride, you’ll have the opportunity to spend quality time with your husky team as they cool off and rest. You’ll witness the incredible bond between these pack animals and then you’ll become a part of the team.

It’s a unique and exhilarating way to celebrate the season, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Highlands and the boundless spirit of the huskies.