The rising popularity of Edinburgh’s Christmas has been welcomed by the city council’s ‘Capital Coalition’ leaders – despite public disquiet over the over-commercialisation of the city centre.
Footfall figures for the first 9 days (first Saturday to second Sunday) are 522,000 – that’s 13% up on the same period last year.
These figures build on the biggest ever opening weekend for the Capital’s festive markets which saw a third more people enjoy the first Saturday of the event than in 2018.
In total, the first festive weekend was enjoyed by 177,070* festival-goers, including 12,000 Light Night attendees. Saturday’s Christmas market footfall rose 30%, from 68,230 in 2018 to 88,971, with overall weekend footfall to the markets up by 11%, from 148,056 to 165,070.
Following debate around the current layout of the festive markets in East Princes Street Gardens, the Council announced that the shape of the winter festivals will be subject to public consultation next year.
Council Leader Adam McVey (SNP) said: “Today’s figures are positive for Edinburgh’s Christmas, confirming the appeal of the event is still exceptionally strong with families and residents in the Capital. Bringing footfall to the city centre during the winter months is vital and supports local jobs and the wider economy.
“Edinburgh’s Christmas brings many advantages to our city and we shouldn’t be afraid to celebrate that. This year’s layout has helped provide a better flow to the event and made it more accessible.
“Going forward, I’m keen to see a far greater discussion around how our Christmas Looks in future and we’ve committed to a conversation with the City next year to help shape Edinburgh’s Christmases offer from 2022.
“I’d encourage residents and businesses to share their thoughts on this year’s events with us now so we can work with the organisers to make further improvements as the celebrations continue.”
Depute Council Leader Labour’s Cammy Day added: “Edinburgh is one of the best places in the world to celebrate Christmas and Hogmanay and we have an incredible event on our doorsteps which more than 500,000 people have enjoyed already.
“I’ve been along to our Christmas festivals and it was great to see so many people of all ages enjoying the festivities. The new layout has improved the flow of people through the market and makes for an enjoyable atmosphere for everyone including families, busy shoppers and the whole event is now accessible. We’ve received feedback from many who share my view.
“My thanks to our hardworking public safety team, Police, Underbelly and others behind the scenes who will continue to work collectively to ensure that our Christmas festivals are some of the best in the World.”
Edinburgh’s winter festivals are produced and operated by London-based live entertainment company Underbelly. Centred in London’s exclusive Hatton Garden, Underbelly is one of the Edinburgh Fringe ‘Big Four’ and also operates a number of festivals across London and Hong Kong.
An Underbelly spokesperson said: “Edinburgh is voting with its feet – again. We’ve had over half a million people through in 9 days and despite the rain, it’s great to see that the event is more popular than ever.
“The new layout and increased space for people to flow is benefiting everybody: particularly those with mobility issues and adults with young children. The increased numbers of visitors will hopefully be positive for local businesses. There’s much more to come over the season and through to Hogmanay and we’re looking forward to sharing it with the people of Edinburgh.”
This year, Waverley Bridge is closed to vehicles during the busiest times (between 11am – 5pm on Saturday’s and Sundays) to improve circulation of revellers and reduce pressure on the busiest areas.
*177,070 = 165,070 to markets + 12,000 to Light Night
While the council leaders are celebrating visitor numbers, the crowds flocking to the city centre is also good news for the criminal fraternity.
Two men have been charged in connection with an alleged pickpocket theft in Edinburgh city centre.
The incident happened on Princes Street on Sunday (24 November).
The men – aged 39 and 24-years-old – are both expected to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court today.
Sergeant George Liddle of West End Police Station said: “Edinburgh is very busy at this time of year with locals and visitors to the city as we head into the festive season.
“Pickpocketing is an issue we take extremely seriously and I would ask the public to remain vigilant.
“I would also urge people to keep their personal belongings safe and out of sight.
“Purses, wallets, handbags and rucksacks can all be targets, along with mobile phones so keep them secure and out of easy reach for opportunists.”
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