Tag: events

What’s On at National Museums of Scotland

EXHIBITIONS & DISPLAYS

National Museum of Scotland
Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF
Open 10:00–17:00 daily

Injecting Hope: The Race for a COVID-19 Vaccine
Until 27 Apr 2025
Special Exhibition Gallery, Level 3
Free

Injecting Hope is a new, free exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland that presents the science behind the COVID-19 vaccine.

This exhibition brings together more than 80 objects that were acquired in real time during the peak of the pandemic by curators across the UK. Learn the science behind the creation of the vaccine and understand the logistics behind its global roll-out.

Find our more, nms.ac.uk/exhibitions/injecting-hope

Cold War Scotland
Until 4 Jan 2026
10:00 – 17:00
Special Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3
Free

Scotland’s unique geography and topography provided a useful base for Allied military preparations and research during the Cold War, a 40-year nuclear stand-off between the USA and the Soviet Union following the end of the Second World War.

Cold War Scotland is an output of Materialising the Cold War, a collaborative research project between National Museums Scotland and the University of Stirling. The project explores how the Cold War heritage is represented and how museums can adapt to tell this story in future. The exhibition will explore both the visible and invisible legacies of the war in Scotland.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/ColdWarScotland

Theravada Buddhism
Until 9 Mar 2025
Gallery 3, Level 1
Free

A thought-provoking display charts the history and influence of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition across the world, including its role in Scotland today. The display includes a Buddha on loan from The Dhammapadipa Temple in Edinburgh. The Buddha was designed and made in Thailand in 2013, then later gifted to Temple where it is now used in their garden meditation room.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/theravadabuddhism

EVENTS

National Museum of Scotland
Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF
Open 10:00–17:00 daily

Relaxed Morning
2 Feb & 2 Mar
10:00-12:00 (quiet space open until 12:30)
Free admission, drop-in

Join us for our monthly Relaxed Morning for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum. This session is primarily for, but not limited to, families with autistic children; autistic young people and adults; adults living with dementia; adults and children with mental health problems and any other visitors with sensory needs or who may prefer a more relaxed experience, plus their families, friends and carers. Friendly staff will be there to give you a warm welcome and support your visit, as you explore some areas of the museum without noisy interactives and videos to give a more relaxed environment.

Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/relaxed-morning

Sensory Sunday
2 Feb & 2 Mar
11:00-12:00 and 14:00-15:00
Free, book required

Exciting, hands-on sensory play sessions for children with additional support needs. Families with children with additional support needs and disabilities are invited to join our programme of sensory play sessions. Explore the museum’s collections, get creative and meet other families. Sensory Sunday sessions are relaxed, fun hands-on, and respond to the needs of the families participating. You are welcome to come and go at any point during a session.

Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/sensory-sunday

Magic Carpet Minis
Block 1 (5, 12, 19 Feb)
Block 2 (5, 12, 19 Mar)
10:30–11:15 or 14:00–14:45
£15.00 per child for block of 3
£13.50 per Member child for block of 3

Magic Carpet Minis introduces you and your little one to some of the wonderful galleries, objects and themes in the museum in a fun and gentle way. Taking place in different spaces around the museum, you will explore subjects such as the Natural World, Space, World Cultures and Scottish History through songs, stories, rhymes, actions, objects and sensory play.

Book now nms.ac.uk/events/magic-carpet-minis


Half Term: Collective Climate Action
8 – 15 Feb
10:30-15:30
Free, drop-in

This half term we will be home to an Agency for World Change climate action booth inspired by the Museum of Bern’s Planetopia project. Meet climate impact advocates, get creative, learn more about what the museum is doing for climate action and make your pledge of what small change you can make to live more ecologically.

Read more, nms.ac.uk/events/collective-climate-action

Museum Socials
21 Feb
10:30-12:00
Learning Centre Seminar Room, Level 4
Free, booking required

Museum Socials are designed for people living with dementia, their relatives, friends, carers, and supporters. Relaxed and informal, each session explores a different museum theme through various interactive activities, including curator talks, object handling and creative crafts. And tea, cake and a warm welcome are always provided.

Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/museum-socials

Curiosity Club: Ice Age
22 Feb
10:30-12:00
£10 (Members and Concessions £9)

Inspired by some of the museum’s most exciting collections, our Curiosity Clubs are a chance for kids to explore the museum without their adult helpers through games, activities, and gallery visits.

Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/curiosity-club

Relaxed Curiosity Club: Ice Age
22 Feb
14:30-15:30
£10 (£9 Members and Concessions)

Relaxed Curiosity Club sessions are particularly aimed at children with additional support needs, neurodivergent children or children with disabilities. Parents/carers (up to two per participating child) are invited to stay and either join in with the activities or enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the foyer of the activity area.

Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/relaxed-curiosity-club

Relaxed Magic Carpet
24 Feb
10:30-11:15 or 14:00-14:45
£ 3 per child

Join us for a relaxed Magic Carpet session as we explore the museum through interactive songs, rhymes, and sensory play. This is a monthly, relaxed version of our Magic Carpet event, for babies, toddlers and children aged 0-6 with additional support needs or for anyone who would prefer a calmer session and a slightly more relaxed pace. This is not a set age range for participants and we welcome all families who feel they may enjoy these sessions.

Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/relaxed-magic-carpet

Morning Curator Tour: Injecting Hope
25 Feb
09:15-10:00
£12 Adults, £10 Members & Concessions

Join our exhibition curator for an exclusive early morning tour of our Injecting Hope exhibition which details the rapid research, development and delivery of the COVID-19 vaccine. Discover the science behind the creation of the vaccine, the logistics behind its global roll-out and will also share some of the uniquely Scottish experiences of the global pandemic.

Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/morning-curator-tour-injecting-hope

Magic Carpet Gaelic Week Special
26 Feb
10:30-11:15
Free, booking required

Come along to our Edinburgh Gaelic Week 2025 Magic Carpet special. This interactive session, suitable for under 5s and their accompanying adult, features songs, stories, rhymes, and play with no knowledge of Gaelic required.

Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/magic-carpet-gaelic-week-special

Creative Workshop: Sustainable Statement Jewellery
1 Mar
10:30-16:00
£50 Adults, £45 Members and Concession

Join sustainable jewellery designer Syrah Jay to design and create your own statement necklace. Taking inspiration from National Museums Scotland’s nationally significant collection of modern and contemporary jewellery, discover how accessories don’t need to be made from precious metals.

Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/creative-workshop-sustainable

Relaxed Access Evening: Injecting Hope
6 Mar
17:30-19:30
Free

Join us for a relaxed after-hours visit to Injecting Hope: The Race for a COVID-19 Vaccine. During this session, visitor numbers will be reduced, and sounds will be lowered to create a more relaxed experience.

This session is primarily for, but not limited to, neurodivergent visitors and those with sensory or additional support needs who would prefer a more relaxed experience, plus their families, friends and carers. 

Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/relaxed-access-evening-injecting-hope

Banners, Ballads and Badges
8 Mar
13:00-15:30
£5, £3 (Members and Concessions)

Join an afternoon of talks and crafts as we discuss the vibrant anti-nuclear protests between the 1970s and 1990s and consider the unique role women played in Scotland’s peace movement.

There will be speakers from National Museums Scotland, the National Library of Scotland and the Gareloch Horticulturalists (Horties). Together they will discuss the significance of Scotland’s peace camps and vibrant anti-nuclear protests, which attracted women from all over the world.

Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/banners-ballads-and-badges

Creative Workshop: Hand Embroided Stories
9 Mar
11:00-16:30
£50 Adults, £45 Members and Concession

Join textile artist Louise Goult to create your own unique hand embroidered artwork. Taking inspiration from the treasure trove of creativity in our Fashion and Style gallery, you will learn the skills, stitches and techniques to make a unique hand embroidered artwork.

Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/hand-embroidered-stories

Audio Descriptive Tour: Injecting Hope
13 Mar
17:30-19:00
Free, booking required

Join our tour guide for an audio descriptive tour and a chance to look round the Injecting Hope exhibition after hours. This tour is aimed at blind, partially sighted and visually impaired visitors, and is most suitable for those aged 14+.

Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/audio-descriptive-tour-injecting-hope

Friday Friends
14 March
14:00 – 16:00
Free, pre-booking required
Our Friday Friends programme offers a welcoming space for visually impaired and D/deaf children and their families. The groups meet monthly and explore the themes of the museum through objects, music, art and activities.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/events/friday-friends

Morning Curator tour: Cold War Scotland
18 Mar
09:15-10:00
£12, £10 (Members & Concessions)

Join this tour of our current exhibition Cold War Scotland to better understand a time when the world stood on the brink of nuclear war.

ERKM4Y Polaris Demonstration at Holy Loch, 3rd Feb 1961

Dr Meredith Greiling, Principal Curator of Technology will delve deeper into stories explored within the exhibition, from the emergence of nuclear energy in Scotland to the vibrant anti-nuclear protests and political activism of the period.

Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/morning-curator-tour-cold-war

Injecting Hope BSL Tour
20 Mar
15:00-16:00
Free, booking required

Join BSL guide Trudi Collier for a guided tour of the Injecting Hope exhibition with a focus objects connected to the Deaf experience of the pandemic.

Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/injecting-hope-bsl-tour


National Museum of Rural Life
Philipshill Road, East Kilbride, G76 9HR
Open 10:00–17:00 daily 

Tractor Tots 
Until Mar 2025
10:15 & 13:30
Various dates
£20 per child for block of 3, £15 per Member child for block of 3
Ticketed

Running in blocks of three Friday morning sessions, Tractor Tots offers a fun, focused experience for our younger visitors, introducing them to the museum and farm, and bringing it to life through interactive creative play. Each session will take place in a different location at the museum and working farm, and will feature handling objects from our learning boxes, singing, storytelling, rhymes, actions and sensory play to learn all about life in the countryside. 

Book now nms.ac.uk/events/tractor-tots

National Museum of Flight
East Fortune Airfield, East Lothian, EH39 5LF
Open Weekends only, 10:00–16:00 

Half Term: Code Breakers
14-16 Feb
11:00-15:00
Free with museum admission

At the National Museum of Flight this half term, learn how secret Second World War codes were made and broken. Learn how secrets were hidden and shared during the Second World War with our family activities. Make your own code and learn how codes were broken. Then try your hand at Morse Code, semaphore and secret writing.

Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/half-term-code-breakers

Follow us on Facebook…facebook.com/NationalMuseumsScotland   

Follow us on Instagram…instagram.com/nationalmuseumsscotland/   

For booking, opening times and location details, contact National Museums Scotland on 0300 123 6789.

Mercat Tours kick off 40 years celebration by looking to city’s next generation

Mercat Tours has launched its 40th-anniversary celebrations with a transformative programme designed to inspire the next generation of local storytellers and tourism professionals. “A Day in Edinburgh”, the inaugural event in a packed year-long calendar of birthday events, took place on Wednesday [29 January], with Mercat Tours and seven partners welcoming 90 second-year pupils from Holy Rood High School. 

The event was attended by the Minister for Business Richard Lochhead MSP, who joined the pupils to explore Edinburgh’s rich cultural heritage and learn about the career opportunities within its thriving tourism sector.

The initiative highlighted the collaborative efforts of eight award-winning partners, including Mercat Tours, Edinburgh Castle, Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh Zoo, Camera Obscura, Rabbie’s Small Group Tours, Dovecot Studios, and Holyrood Distillery. 

Launched in 2016 as the brainchild of Managing Director Kat Brogan, “A Day in Edinburgh” has grown into a powerful initiative, providing over 685 pupils and 120 staff with memorable, confidence-building experiences.

Working alongside leading tourism institutions, the programme connects young people to Edinburgh’s stories, while giving pupils the opportunity to meet passionate industry professionals, who share insights into their careers, demonstrating how tourism can offer a dynamic, fulfilling career path.

Survey results show 95% of students leave the programme with a stronger connection to their city and a greater appreciation for its vibrant history and cultural offerings. 

Kat Brogan, Managing Director of Mercat Tours, said: “As we celebrate 40 years of giving Edinburgh’s history ‘a damn good telling,’ it’s fitting to kick-off our anniversary year by investing in the future.

“‘A Day in Edinburgh’ is more than an educational day out—it’s about igniting pride, ambition, and curiosity in young people while showcasing the vibrant, rewarding and diverse careers available in tourism. This initiative embodies what Mercat Tours stands for: connecting people to their past while inspiring their future.” 

Business Minister Richard Lochhead said: “We know that careers in tourism are fulfilling and integral to communities across Scotland.  Which is why I find this programme, which seeks to inspire future generations to consider a career in this vibrant sector, admirable and valuable.  

“Of course, we want there to be even more jobs for tomorrow’s generation. That’s why the Scottish Government is committed to helping the tourism sector to grow, allocating an additional £2 million to VisitScotland in our draft Scottish Budget to continue attracting visitors which supports the economy.” 

Joan Daly, Head Teacher at Holy Rood High School, said: “This initiative provides an opportunity for our pupils to enjoy the rich cultural experiences our city has to offer with no cost barriers to consider.

“This provides a real sense of equity for accessing school excursions, making them accessible for all.” 

James Campbell, Acting Depute, Holy Rood High School, added: “Not only will it provide an opportunity to enjoy the wonderful cultural sites our city has, but we feel it will go some way in raising their aspirations and developing the skills and confidence to become engaged in society as the new young workforce of the future.” 

One participating pupil from Holy Rood High School expressed a newfound aspiration to “be an architect who restructures old buildings like the Georgian House or write about animals for the zoo.” 

Another noted the valuable skills they learned: “You have to be friendly, good at socialising, patient, and energetic – a people person, know languages and be polite.” 

“A Day in Edinburgh” sets the stage for Mercat Tours’ broader anniversary programme which will feature a packed series of initiatives, events, and a few surprises throughout 2025, with a warm invitation to all to join the celebrations. 

The local family business has designed a programme to honour its legacy while thanking the local community, Edinburgh’s tourism industry and its visitors from around the globe for their support over the last four decades. Further details will be revealed soon.  

As the UK’s first and only Certified B Corporation™ visitor attraction and a Living Hours Employer, Mercat Tours exemplifies the ethos that “good business does good.”

Passionate advocates that history should be accessible to everyone, visitors and locals alike, programmes like A Day in Edinburgh, demonstrate Mercat’s investment in its community, ensuring Edinburgh’s stories endure while inspiring young people to help shape the city’s future to benefit all, equally. 

To find out more about Mercat Tours planned 40th celebrations and “A Day in Edinburgh” programme visit: www.mercattours.com

PICTURES: TONY MARSH

Strike a paw-se: New Valentine event for dogs at Dobbies’ Edinburgh

Dobbies Garden Centres is encouraging paw-rents to show their pooches some love this Valentine’s Day at its brand-new dog event at its Edinburgh store that will raise money for national dog welfare charity, Dogs Trust. 

Renowned for its love of dogs, Dobbies is hosting this event from Friday 14 to Sunday 16 February, giving customers a great opportunity to take a paw-fect digital picture against the Valentine’s backdrop to treasure for years to come. Dogs will snuffle around the store in a sniff-ari trail, with a gift bag reward at the end featuring a Valentine’s dog toy, dog treats and money off vouchers. 

Customers at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store will be able to share the love and add a donation while booking the event, helping with Dogs Trust’s mission of caring for, rehabilitating, and rehoming thousands of dogs every year.  

Dobbies’ Events Programme Manager, Ayesha Nickson, is looking forward to welcoming a variety of dog breeds to the event, supporting a wonderful cause. She said: “This is the first in our series of experiences for dogs at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store this year and we’re excited to see every customer (paws included) enjoy all the fun that can be had at the My Paw-fect Valentine event.  

“Share the love with your pooch, create a memorable moment and support Dogs Trust who are doing remarkable work for dogs in need.”

Well behaved dogs on a lead are warmly welcomed at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store and in a dedicated area of the restaurant. Explore the fantastic range of pet products at Dobbies, with everything from healthy treats and dog attire to terrific toys.

Customers can take part in Dobbies’ monthly social media competition, Dogs at Dobbies, by posting a picture and using the hashtag #dogsatdobbies to be in a chance of winning a gift voucher. 

Dobbies’ Paw-fect Valentine event at the Edinburgh store is priced at £12.50 per pooch.

For more information about the event and participating stores, visit www.dobbies.com/events.

Who’s serving up at The Pitt?

Hello Pitt Peeps!

It’s less than two weeks until we’re officially fully open so make sure that date’s in your diary – Friday, 6th December – and be one of the first down to Granton to check us out. And if you’ve been wondering who’s going to be quenching your thirst and filling your belly, our official Resident foodies will be:

Choola: Nepalese street food with a Scottish twist 
Fire Bowl: East Asian style street food 
Buffalo Truck: Delicious fried chicken with all the added delights 
Social Bite Does dessert: amazing sweet treats and lots of custard 
Lazeez: Authentic Lebanese delights (fully halal) and shish
Pulp Friction: Seasonal fresh fruit infused drinks, from mulled sangrias to frozen margaritas 
Barney’s and Newbarns: supplying the best locally brewed beers
Serving up Williams and Johnson coffee, savoury and sweets will be Long Shot Coffee. 

Don’t forget, The Pitt also has two saunas from Soul Water Sauna (booking opening soon), a weekly local produce market from Granton Community Garden, community and family areas, a co-working space and one of the best views in Edinburgh across the Firth of Forth. 

December opening hours: 
Friday 6th: 5pm-10pm
Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th: 8am-10pm 
Then weekly until 29th: Thursday to Sunday: 8am-10pm
Hogmanay, Tuesday 31st: 8am-2am – family friendly entertainment with free entry all day to The Pitt Market. Please note, the Hogmanay Extravaganza is a separate, ticketed event which is suitable for 16+ only. 

Entry to The Pitt Market is from the Granton Promenade. The Market will always be free to enter and is family and dog friendly every single day. 


Retail / Lifestyle Opportunity

Perfect for anyone who wants to trade and be part of a supporting community of entrepreneurs looking to kick start their business or any pop up ideas. 

More info HERE

We can’t wait to see you very soon! 

The Pitt team 

Tourism: Scottish Thistle Award winners revealed

Kat Brogan, the visionary leader behind one of Scotland’s most progressive tourism businesses has been named as the winner of one of the country’s most prestigious tourism and events awards.

The Managing Director of Mercat Tours took home the Scottish Thistle Awards’ highest accolade, the Silver Thistle, at the national final held at the Hilton Glasgow on Thursday 21 November.

Delivered by VisitScotland, the Scottish Thistle Awards, with headline sponsors Johnstons of Elgin, celebrate the very best of the tourism and events industry. They have become an annual celebration of excellence, collaboration, and innovation within one of the country’s most important sectors. 

The Silver Thistle is awarded in recognition of an outstanding contribution to tourism, an honour bestowed by the industry to someone who delivers stand out work and inspires excellence in others.

Judges said Kat Brogan represented the ‘very spirit of the Silver Thistle Award; a leader whose passion, vision, and commitment to excellence has left a lasting impact on Scottish tourism.’  

Business Minister Richard Lochhead who presented the award said: “It was a privilege to award Kat Brogan the coveted Silver Thistle award, celebrating her commitment to inclusivity and sustainability while showcasing the best of our capital city.

“Tourism is vital to Scotland, providing jobs and highlighting the diversity of Scotland’s offer to global audiences.

“And it is a sector which is passionate about driving positive change on behalf of communities across the country. The Scottish Government is committed to supporting the industry at every step.”

Among the other Edinburgh winners were The Scotch Whisky Experience which took home the award for Best Visitor Attraction, sponsored by Jacobite Loch Ness Cruises. The popular attraction which is based on the Capital’s famous Royal Mile impressed judges with its clear culture for innovation including several examples such as tasting and story-telling experiences. 

Susan Morrison, Chief Executive, said: “We are thrilled and honoured to receive the award for Best Visitor Attraction.

“A huge thanks to our amazing customer-facing and support teams. This award is truly the culmination of everyone working together to welcome the world and help them on their journey to fall in love with Scotch whisky.”

Meanwhile, nearby Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, was named Tourism & Hospitality Employer of the Year.

Judges commended the attraction for its diverse workforce which fosters an atmosphere of dignity, honesty and response. It was also praised for having regular dialogue with staff with lots of opportunity for innovation, training, sharing of ideas and providing feedback.

Andrew Johnston, General Manager, said: “We are very grateful to the judges for this prestigious award and to our dedicated team for their tireless efforts.

Their commitment to enhancing our facilities and visitor experience has been invaluable. Thank you to our visitors for continuing to enjoying our unique offer of interactive fun.”

Finally, Business Events Shaping Tomorrow ‘BEST’ Business Event – ACNAP 2023 which took place at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) was named Best Business Event.

Held in June 2023, the event welcomed 450 delegates to the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing & Allied Professions’ Annual Conference, bringing together cardiovascular nurses, allied professionals, pharmacists and health care scientists in cardiovascular care. 

The conference was praised for contributing to Scotland’s Cardiovascular Nursing expertise, advancing the quality of life for the people of Scotland, and for showing excellent alignment to Scottish Government Policy aims, sustainability and legacy.

EICC Chief Executive, Marshall Dallas said: “At the EICC, we’re dedicated to hosting impactful business events. ACNAP’s 2023 conference is a brilliant example of how a business event can be a catalyst for positive societal impact, by raising public awareness and driving policy change.

“We’re really proud to see this legacy work recognised with a Thistle Award.”

Steven Walker, Chair of the Scottish Thistle Award Industry Panel, said: “My sincerest congratulations to Kat Brogan, The Scotch Whisky Experience, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, the EICC and the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing & Allied Professionals, on being crowned winners at this year’s Scottish Thistle Awards national final.

“This is a remarkable achievement and shines a spotlight on the excellent tourism offerings available in the city.

“Earning recognition as one of the best in the country is a fantastic accomplishment. It not only shines a spotlight on the city but also underscores the positive impact our tourism and events industry has on Scotland as a whole. 

 “Winning a Scottish Thistle Award means joining a prestigious roll of honour, placing these winners among the country’s finest and opening doors to new opportunities.” 

The Scottish Thistle Awards champion innovation, collaboration and sustainable practices, in line with the ambitions of the national tourism strategy, Scotland Outlook 2030.      

2024 saw more than 700 entries submitted by individuals, businesses, events and community organisations in the bid to be recognised for the role they play in making Scotland a must-visit, must-return destination.    

The Scottish Thistle Awards are delivered in partnership with Highlands & Islands Thistle Awards (HITA), the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards (ACSTA) and the South of Scotland Thistle Awards, supported by a panel of industry representatives. 

This year’s national sponsors of the Scottish Thistle Awards include headline sponsor, Johnstons of Elgin, as well as Abbey UK, Jacobite Loch Ness Cruises, The Macallan Estate, LNER, STV, SLTA, Historic Scotland and Fishers. The Scottish Thistle Awards also includes a media partnership with News Scotland including The Times Scotland and the Scottish Sun.    

Full list of winners: 

Category Winners 
Best B&B or Guest House Experience – sponsored by Abbey UK Glenegedale House, Isle of Islay 
Best Bar or Pub – sponsored by Scottish Licensed Trade Association The Cross Keys Inn, Ettrickbridge 
Best Business Event Business Events Shaping Tomorrow ‘BEST’ Business Event – ACNAP 2023, Edinburgh 
Best Eating Experience The Globe Inn, Dumfries 
Best Hotel Experience – sponsored by Fishers Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa, Dundee 
Best Luxury Experience – sponsored by The Macallan Estate Trump Turnberry, Girvan, 
Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience Nevis Range, Torlundy 
Best Self Catering or Unique Stay Kabn, Loch Fyne 
Best Visitor Attraction – sponsored by Jacobite Loch Ness Cruises The Scotch Whisky Experience, Edinburgh 
Celebrating Thriving Communities – sponsored by The Scottish Sun Friends of Dundonald Castle SCIO, Dundonald 
Climate Action Award – sponsored by LNER Glasgow Science Centre, Glasgow 
Inclusive Tourism Award – sponsored by Historic Scotland Trimontium Museum, Melrose 
Innovation in Tourism – sponsored by The Times Scotland Loch Ness Hub and Travel, Drumnadrochit 
Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival – sponsored by STV Wigtown Book Festival, Wigtown 
Outstanding Sporting Event World Athletics Indoor Championships, Glasgow  
Rising Star Award Hannah Cochrane – Scottish Event Campus, Glasgow  
Tourism & Hospitality Employer of the Year Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh 
Tourism Individual of the Year Russell Fraser, Loch Ness Hub and Travel, Drumnadrochit 
Silver Thistle Kat Brogan, Mercat Tours, Edinburgh

Santa Claus arrives at Edinburgh’s Christmas aboard an Edinburgh Tram

edinburgh-christmas.com

Insta | FB | Tiktok @edinburghchristmas

Twitter (X) @edxmas

#edinburghchristmas

Tickets are on sale now for Santa’s Stories here

  • Santa’s Stories and Christmas Tree Maze transform St. Andrew Square from Saturday 23 November
  • George Street’s popular covered Ice Rink opens Friday 22 November
  • Family favourites in East Princes Street Gardens including the Traditional Christmas Markets, LNER Big Wheel, Around the World Starflyer, and the Festive Funfair in West Princes Street Gardens now open

Santa Claus and his elves are ready to welcome families at St. Andrew Square where they can find Santa’s Stories, a letter writing station and a post box with a direct line to Santa’s workshop. Santa’s Stories begins Saturday 23 November in the Piccolo Spiegeltent, with each visit ensuring kids get the opportunity to meet Santa himself before the big day, and take home their own present.

Also in St. Andrew Square, the all-new Christmas Tree Maze opens on Saturday 23 November, until 24 December. This immersive holiday experience, with tickets from £5, offers one of the UK’s largest illuminated Christmas Tree walks.

Time to lace up your skates! Edinburgh’s premier outdoor Ice Rink opens on George Street from Friday 22 November 2024 and runs through until Saturday 4 January 2025. With a covered rink, it’s the perfect festive activity, rain or shine.

Edinburgh’s Christmas is now open featuring a jam-packed programme of festive family fun! Get ready for bright lights, Christmas tunes and mulled wine as the festive season kicks off!  Located in Edinburgh’s historic city centre, Edinburgh’s Christmas offers a winter wonderland experience like no other.

Edinburgh’s Christmas transforms the city into a festive haven for all the family, with Traditional Christmas Markets, funfair rides, spectacular live outdoor events, delicious food and drink, plus so much more.

Edinburgh’s East Princes Street Gardens brings the capital’s famous Christmas festivities to the heart of the city. Running until Saturday 4 January 2025, the market is filled to the brim with the finest local and international producers to find that perfect Christmas gift. East Princes Street Gardens also boasts the famous 80m Star Flyer, LNER Big Wheel and more daring fairground rides.

Just along the street, West Princes Street Gardens’  Festive Funfair complete with thrilling rides, fairground games, food & beverage, light installations and ticketed illumination events every evening. Families are welcome to join the fun until Saturday 4 January 2025.

It’s Book Week Scotland!

18th – 24th NOVEMBER

The line-up for Book Week Scotland 2024 has been revealed, themed around ‘hope’. From 18–24 November, the annual celebration of books and reading, will see events spanning arts, poetry and photography to music, food, nature and languages, as well as a new free book, Scotland’s Stories: Hope.

A whole host of authors and artists will feature including illustrator Johanna Basford, Jackie Kay, Jenny Colgan, Rachelle Atalla, Axel Scheffler, artist Julie Brook, Linda Cracknell, musician Duncan Chisholm and a cartoonist drawalong with Mollie Ray.

The Book Week Scotland 2024 programme has been launched during Libraries Week, underlining the important role libraries play in our communities and during Book Week Scotland itself. Run by Scottish Book Trust, and now in its 13th year, Book Week Scotland is supported by The National Lottery through Creative Scotland.

Launching Book Week Scotland, Johanna Basford commented: “I am so excited to be part of Book Week Scotland this year! Books are magical and I love that with the turn of a page, you can be whisked away on an adventure or find yourself in a whole new world.

I’m so looking forward to being part of this huge, nationwide celebration of books and helping to spread a few smiles!”

Book Week Scotland 2024 programme highlights:

  • 65,000 free copies of Scotland’s Stories: Hope will be distributed all over Scotland
  • New and exclusive Jenny Colgan story serialisation: Readers can subscribe to a brand new piece of writing by best-selling author Jenny Colgan. Sign up for free daily instalments to be delivered directly to your inbox throughout Book Week.
  • Landscapes of Hope and Inspiration, featuring three of Scotland’s best artists – visual artist Julie Brook, writer Linda Cracknell and composer and musician Duncan Chisholm: In conversation, chaired by Scottish Book Trust’s CEO Marc Lambert, the trio will explore their relationships to the landscapes that nurture, inform and animate their work and discuss how making art in Scotland’s rich and varied landscapes enables them find hope for the future. Edinburgh’s Fruitmarket Gallery, 7-8.30pm Monday 18 November
  • Pleasures of Reading with Jackie Kay: the former Makar will share books that have played an important role in her life and Dr Sarah McGeown, University of Edinburgh, will share fascinating research on the benefits of reading for pleasure. Portobello Bookshop, Wednesday 20 November, plus a further event at Bishopbriggs Library, Tuesday 19 November.
  • Society of Authors Drawalong with Mollie Ray: Friday 22 November
  • Johanna Basford: known for her intricate hand-drawn art and international colouring book success, the ‘queen of colouring’ will host an event at The Duncan Rice Library, Sunday 24 November.
  • Interactive Reading Map: make sure you add what you’re reading during Book Week, and discover what others are reading. We’ll share our findings on what Scotland is reading right now, later in the year. 

In schools:

  • Authors Live with Axel Scheffler: This event will be broadcast live to schools across the UK, offering an unforgettable experience with the illustrator behind The Gruffalo. Tuesday 19 November.
  • Universal book gifting for young school children: Every P1, P2, and P3 child in Scotland will receive a specially curated book bag filled with books and activities, thanks to Bookbug (P1) and Read, Write, Count (P2 & P3). 

Alison Nolan, chief executive of the Scottish Library & Information Council said: “Scotland has a rich cultural heritage; we are recognised across the globe as the home of some of the world’s finest writers. 

“SLIC is delighted to partner with Book Week Scotland allowing us to celebrate the power of reading, connecting people to writers and resources and with a brilliant programme of events lined up in libraries across the country, there’s something for everyone.

“Visiting your local library opens countless opportunities to rediscover all that local libraries have to offer.”

Alan Bett, Head of Literature & Publishing at Creative Scotland, said: “Once again Book Week Scotland announces a fantastic list of literary events taking place across the country, for all ages and interests.

“The programme includes some of Scotland’s most recognised and respected writers such as Jackie Kay and the hugely popular novelist Jenny Colgan, alongside exciting new voices like Rachelle Atalla. Book Week Scotland is a true celebration of reading, which makes this year’s positive theme of hope entirely relevant.”

Marc Lambert, CEO Scottish Book Trust, commented: “We are excited to share the programme for Book Week Scotland 2024, featuring a wonderful range of authors and artists. This year’s theme for Book Week Scotland also shines a light on libraries who are themselves beacons of hope.

“Book Week Scotland continues to operate on a limited budget due to funding cuts, and we are, as ever, incredibly grateful to our partners including the Scottish Library and Information Council, library services, independent bookshops, schools and the many other community partners we collaborate with to make Book Week Scotland happen. A love of reading brings much pleasure, many benefits, and indeed hope, to individuals and the communities they live in.”

Julie Brook, visual artist, commented: “Book Week Scotland and their work all through the year is a passionate advocate for making books and the world of books accessible to everyone of all ages.

“My hope is by bringing artists of other disciplines into the conversations we can open up new ways in which to approach reading.”

For more information on events, listings and how to get involved, visit:

bookweekscotland.com.

Follow the conversation with #BookWeekScotland on social media.

Sparkling Streets and Festive Treats as Edinburgh’s Christmas Begins

  • Family favourites in East Princes Street Gardens including the Traditional Christmas Markets, LNER Big Wheel, Around the World Starflyer, and the Festive Funfair in West Princes Street Gardens open today!
  • George Street’s popular covered Ice Rink opens Friday 22 November
  • Santa’s Stories and Christmas Tree Maze transform St. Andrew Square from Saturday 23 November
  • The brand-new Polar Ice Bar opens on George Street Monday 25 November and promises to be the coolest venue in town
  • Assembly Hall brings an exciting programme of shows from Thursday 5 December

The wait is over… Edinburgh’s Christmas opens today, featuring a jam-packed programme of festive family fun!

Get ready for bright lights, Christmas tunes and mulled wine as the festive season kicks off!  Located in Edinburgh’s historic city centre, Edinburgh’s Christmas offers a winter wonderland experience like no other.

Edinburgh’s Christmas transforms the city into a festive haven for all the family, with Traditional Christmas Markets, funfair rides, spectacular live outdoor events, delicious food and drink, plus so much more.

Opening today (Saturday 16 November), Edinburgh’s East Princes Street Gardens brings the capital’s famous Christmas festivities to the heart of the city. Running until Saturday 4 January 2025, the market is filled to the brim with the finest local and international producers to find that perfect Christmas gift. East Princes Street Gardens also boasts the famous 80m Star Flyer, LNER Big Wheel and more daring fairground rides.

Just along the street, West Princes Street Gardens’  Festive Funfair is also opening today (12noon), complete with thrilling rides, fairground games, food & beverage, light installations and ticketed illumination events every evening. Families are welcome to join the fun until Saturday 4 January 2025.

Time to lace up your skates! Edinburgh’s premier outdoor Ice Rink opens on George Street from Friday 22 November 2024 and runs through until Saturday 4 January 2025. With a covered rink, it’s the perfect festive activity, rain or shine.

Santa Claus and his elves are ready to welcome families at St. Andrew Square where they can find Santa’s Stories, a letter writing station and a post box with a direct line to Santa’s workshop. Santa’s Stories begins Saturday 23 November in the Piccolo Spiegeltent, with each visit ensuring kids get the opportunity to meet Santa himself before the big day, and take home their own present.

Also in St. Andrew Square, the all-new Christmas Tree Maze opens on Saturday 23 November, until 24 December. This immersive holiday experience, with tickets from £5, offers one of the UK’s largest illuminated Christmas Tree walks.

Brand new this year, the Polar Ice Bar on George Street is crafted from crystal clear ice made from recycled rainwater, opens on Monday 25 November. The Polar Ice bar promises to be the coolest spot in town to enjoy a festive drink! Warm-up afterwards in George Street’s Coorie Inn, a brand-new Edinburgh’s Christmas attraction hosting a programme of live music, events, and festive workshops.

Our favourite ogre is back with a holiday edition of the Fringe smash-hit show, ‘Swamplesque’ – a burlesque and drag parody show. The festive ‘fantasy meets fabulous’ performance takes over Assembly Hall from Thursday 5 December until Saturday 4 January (ages 16+).

One of the foremost bubble artists in the world is coming to Assembly Hall on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 December with The Bubble Show! Whether you’re a wide-eyed child or a child at heart, prepare to be captivated by the spellbinding wonder of bubbles!

There’s no show like a Jason Byrne NO SHOW! NO SHOW is a show with no comedy safety net. Witness Jason use his infamous audience interactions with a sprinkle of props, both on and off stage, to create NO SHOW. Limited shows on Saturday 6 December and Sunday 7 December, you don’t want to miss this once in a lifetime show or NO SHOW (ages 14+).

Book lovers can join Val McDermid and Nicola Sturgeon for a special festive in-conversation event on Sunday 15 December at Assembly Hall, for In the Company of Books. The two will be joined by special guests to explore the joys of reading, and a few glasses of mulled wine (ages 12+).

Celebrating its 20th anniversary the Edinburgh Santa Fun Run and Walk on Sunday 8 December, invites Santa’s elves to run, jog or walk around the 2.5km circuit, while raising funds for When You Wish Upon A Star.

Unique Assembly, producers of Edinburgh’s Christmas said: “Edinburgh’s Christmas is finally here, and with a seven-week programme packed full of family favourites, this year promises to be one of the biggest and best ever.

“Whether sipping on cool cocktails in our brand new Ice Bar, enjoying a festive treat at the Coorie Inn or showing off your skating skills on the Ice Rink, there’s something for everyone at Edinburgh’s Christmas.”