Edinburgh’s world-renowned Traditional Christmas Market open this Saturday, with a special Kick-Off Concert and a jam-packed line-up of festive fun until 3 January 2027
Edinburgh’s Christmas with Halo is back in full swing as the globally renowned traditional Christmas Markets opens tomorrow. The festivities officially begin with a free Kick-Off Concert at the Ross Bandstand this Saturday 14 November at 3pm.
From traditional Christmas markets, free community events and concerts featuring stars including Girls Aloud star Nadine Coyle and the foot stompin’ Red Hot Chilli Pipers, plus Santa himself and much more, Edinburgh’s Christmas with Halo caters to all festive tastes.
Edinburgh’s Traditional Christmas Markets reside in the capital’s East Princes Street Gardens, and are a focal point for the city’s winter festivities which last year welcomed over 3M visitors and generated £170M for the local economy.
The markets are free to enter and host the spectacular LNER Big Wheel, and Around the World Star Flyer, as well as over 80 market stalls. With 360 views of The Scott Monument, Edinburgh Castle and the iconic Edinburgh skyline, the Markets are the perfect spot to kick off Christmas in the capital.
Edinburgh’s Christmas hosts a festive season for all to enjoy, with an annual Residents discount offering Edinburgh locals (with an EH postcode) 20% discount on LNER Big Wheel, Around the World Star Flyer, and Santa’s Stories amongst others.
Edinburgh’s Christmas organisers Unique Assembly also give away thousands of free tickets for top attractions to local charities and community groups through the Community Ticket Initiative.
In 2026, Edinburgh’s Christmas also partners with official charities including ‘One City Trust‘, ‘CALM‘, ‘My Name’5 Doddie Foundation‘, ‘When You Wish Upon a Star’ and ‘Street Assist Edinburgh’.
Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets are full of seasonal delights from over 80 stalls featuring independently owned, local businesses. Much-loved local favourites return including the UK’s first and only Dutch Stroopwafel bakery, Wholly Wafflesby Edinburgh-based Dutchman, Timothy Shelhaas.
Kydds Crafts sells sustainable candles and upcycled furniture, and Selbrae House‘s bespoke tableware makes an extra special gift. Edinburgh-based Leamne Arts & Crafts returns with their trademark tiny ceramic houses and colourful Scottish inspired artwork, and Edinburgh local Pine Eye Studio bring their small-batch, locally made ceramics to the markets for the first time.
The Natural Larder Collective join the ranks of traders for the first time, with a curated selection of Scottish-founded brands that are sustainably sourced and nature friendly. Home to The Scottish Bee Company, Nuisance Drinks, The Big Cheese Making Kit and more independent foodie treats, The Natural Larder Collective champions sustainability, good food, and community.
On joining Edinburgh’s Christmas for the first year, Suzie Millar from The Natural Larder Collective said: “We’re super excited to be part of the markets this year, it’s a huge opportunity for us to showcase all of our brands and we are so grateful to the team for allowing us to be involved!”
Beloved Edinburgh locals Tekerch, often seen at Edinburgh Pitt Market, will be joining forces with Scotland’s first and finest Hungarian chimney cakes.
Owners of Tekerch, Kincső Kovács and Szabolcs Panczér said: “Tekerch Hungarian Chimney Cake in Edinburgh was a dream that began taking shape in 2024, inspired by multiple visits back home to Hungary by the two of us, who have been working in hospitality in Edinburgh since 2017.
“Tekerch Hungarian Chimney Cake is something we are so excited to share with the people of the Edinburgh Christmas Markets this year and beyond!”
On the return of the Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets, City of Edinburgh Council Leader, Jane Meagher said; “Edinburgh’s Christmas is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our city, bringing festive magic to the capital while delivering real benefits for local people and businesses.
“Our winter festivals generate an estimated £240 million for the local economy, supporting jobs and giving businesses a vital boost during the winter months.
“I’m glad that our communities will once again benefit, with the return of the Community Ticket initiative, 20% discounts for EH postcode residents on selected attractions and a wide programme of free family-friendly events.
“I’m looking forward to this year’s celebrations and hope residents and visitors alike enjoy everything Edinburgh’s Christmas has to offer.”
Edinburgh’s Christmas also features the spectacular Polar Ice Barand Family Ice Experience with Icelandair, family-favourite Santa’s Stories, and a programme of Christmas cabaret including La Clique Noël and more at the Palais du Variété, Bristo Square.
Edinburgh’s Christmas Market is open daily except Christmas Day, with varying opening times. For more information, visit www.edwinterfest.com