events – Page 2 – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

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

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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.

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.

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.

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.”

Celebrate Hope: Book Week Scotland illuminates Edinburgh and the Lothians with inspiring literary events

Scotland’s national celebration of books, Book Week Scotland 2024, returns from 18-24 November to uplift Edinburgh and Lothians with its theme of Hope.

This year’s programme offers unique perspectives on resilience, community, and the landscapes that define the region. Over the years, Book Week Scotland has deepened its impact on Edinburgh and the Lothians, delivering literary events to even the remotest locations and fostering connections in towns and communities.

The 2024 programme spotlights regional authors and local libraries as community cornerstones. 65,000 copies of a new free book, Scotland’s Stories: Hope, will be distributed during the week.

It is made up of real-life stories from people across Scotland, including contributions from people in Edinburgh and Lothians.

Local voices in this year’s Hope book include:

· “A Wee Pocket of Joy” by Rosemary Henderson, East Lothian

· “Dancing for Hope” by Georgia Marlborough, Edinburgh

· “Ribbons and New Socks” by Sheena Mason, Dalkeith

· “Hope and Consolation” by David Pickering, Edinburgh

· “It’s The Hope That Kills You” by Julie Drybrough, Edinburgh

· “Thorin” by Sam Eastop, Edinburgh (also adapted as a comic strip by Mollie Ray)

Each piece reflects the theme of Hope in unique and personal ways, highlighting the power of local stories.

Book Week Scotland event highlights in Edinburgh and the Lothians:

· Landscapes of Hope and Inspiration, Fruitmarket Gallery, Edinburgh, 18 November—This event will bring together visual artist Julie Brook, writer Linda Cracknell, and musician Duncan Chisholm to discuss how Scotland’s landscapes inspire and provide hope.

· The Pleasures of Reading with Jackie Kay, Portobello Bookshop, 20 November – Jackie Kay shares the books that have inspired her, joined by Dr Sarah McGeown to explore the benefits of reading for pleasure.

· Various Author Events Across Edinburgh and East Lothian – Libraries and regional community centres will host readings, discussions, and family events celebrating the joy of reading.

The variety of events this year reflects Edinburgh and Lothians’ longstanding engagement with Book Week Scotland, now in its 13^th year and supported by Creative Scotland.

Scottish Book Trust invites everyone to join the #BookWeekScotland conversation and find further information and event listings at Book Week Scotland 2024 – Scottish Book Trust .

Extracts:

Rosemary Henderson, Tranent (East Lothian), ‘A Wee Pocket of Joy’

Sheena Mason, Dalkeith (Midlothian), ‘Ribbons and New Socks’

Georgia Marlborough, Edinburgh, ‘Dancing for Hope’

David Pickering, Edinburgh, ‘HOPE AND CONSOLATION’

Julie Drybrough, Edinburgh, ‘It’s The Hope That Kills You’

Sam Eastop, Edinburgh, ‘Thorin’ – story also adapted as a comic strip by Mollie Ray Jennie Tripp, Edinburgh

What’s On: Exhibitions, displays and events at National Museums of Scotland

Exhibitions & displays

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

Game On
Until 3 Nov 2024
Special Exhibition Gallery, Level 3

Get set for Game On – the largest interactive exhibition of the history and the culture of video games. Game On, an exhibition conceived and curated by Barbican Immersive, examines the creative and technological advances that have established a new medium and artform. From Sonic the Hedgehog to Mario, explore gaming’s rich history through over 100 playable games from the last five decades.

Find our more nms.ac.uk/game-on

Cold War Scotland
Until 26 Jan 2025
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 12 Jan 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

Magic Carpet Minis
Block 3 (6, 13 & 20 Nov)
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

Friday Friends
8 & 22 November
Selected Friday afternoons
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

Creative Workshop: An Introduction to Drawing Scottish Wildlife
9 Nov
11:00-16:00
£50, £44 Members & Concession
Booking required

This informal creative workshop will focus on better understanding and engaging with Scottish wildlife. Learn how to create various textures and marks to depict the animal world, using tone and contrast to achieve a three-dimensional effect with pencils. The focus will be on using creativity to improve your understanding of and appreciation for the animals being drawn, rather than depicting an accurate likeness.

Book now nms.ac.uk/events/creative-workshop-an-introduction-to-drawing-scottish-wildlife

The Sunday Sketch
17 Nov
14:00-16:00
£15, £13 Members & Conc.
Book required

Join artist Sheena Russell to take a new look at our collections and be guided through a range of drawing activities within the museum’s galleries. In this session, we will be drawing the artworks in the Art of Living and Traditions in Sculpture galleries on level 5 of the National Museum of Scotland. Learn how to capture the varied qualities of faces and figures sculpted in clay, marble, plaster, terracotta and wood.

Book now nms.ac.uk/events/the-sunday-sketch

Annual Open Evening
20 Nov
18:00
Free, booking required

Join National Museums Scotland Chair, Ian Russell, and Director, Dr Chris Breward, for a review of the year highlighting the extensive range of activity that has taken place across the organisation in 2024.

Curator Dr Adrian Maldonado will also present Unwrapping the Galloway Hoard, which gives a fascinating update on the latest conservation and research discoveries from this Viking-age hoard.

Book now nms.ac.uk/events/annual-open-evening

Curiosity Club: Animals in the Dark
23 Nov
10:30

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

Drawn Together at the Museum
27 – 29 Dec
10:30-16:30
Grand Gallery, Level 1
Free, drop-in

Escape to the museum during the holidays and enjoy sketching around our galleries. Join us for this calming, creative activity in the heart of the busy holiday season. Meet our artist-in-residence then pick up a pencil and paper and explore the galleries.

Sprogmanay
1 Jan 2025
14:00-17:00
Grand Gallery, Level 1
Free, drop in

Shimmy, sparkle, and sing your way into the New Year as Sprogmanay returns for 2025. Join us for an afternoon of fun for children of all ages with a programme of live music, dancing, and performances. You can also explore our galleries packed with inspiring objects and stories.

Samhuinn Fire Festival brings the fire for the winter season to Edinburgh

A EVENING OF REVELRY AND JOY ON HOLYROOD PARK FOR SAMHUINN FIRE FESTIVAL 2024

Last night, revellers of over 6000 gathered at Holyrood Park to take part in the annual Samhuinn Fire Festival, produced by Beltane Fire Society.

As part of an ancient Celtic tradition, the end of the warmer months were observed, and the winter season was welcomed, inspired by the Celtic tales of the turning of the wheel.

The epic battle between the Summer and Winter Queens unfolded as The Cailleach prepared for the transition into winter.

The festival took place at Holyrood Park in the centre of the city to watch the festivities, and brought together communities to welcome in the colder months. Despite the ever-growing wind, the flames still burned and set the park alight.

Jenny Bloom, Chair of Beltane Fire Society, said: “For thousands of witnesses, and our community of hundreds of dedicated volunteers, last night’s Samhuinn Fire Festival joyfully marked the change of the seasons.

“It’s never easy to say goodbye to the summer – but what better way to welcome the Scottish Winter than a night of crashing drums and clashing swords!”

The modern Samhuinn Fire Festival has been running since 1988 and is the autumn and winter counterpart to Beltane Fire Festival, which is held at Calton Hill on 30th April.

The events are immersive experiences, which involve modern re-imaginings of ancient Celtic festivals to mark the turning seasons, and the turning of the wheel.

The Beltane Fire Society is a charity run by volunteers, dedicated to marking the fire festivals of the ancient Celtic calendar and keeping traditional Scottish skills of street theatre, music and pageantry alive.

PICTURES: Crow Mackie, Dan Boyce, Daniel Cass Senior and Braven Davenport.

Reminder: Community Planning ‘Transformation’ Events

Invitation to Participate in Community Planning Transformation and Improvement Stakeholder Engagement Session

The Edinburgh Partnership agreed to look afresh at the role of Community Planning in Edinburgh to maximise the relationships between public sector agencies and the voluntary and community sectors to address poverty and inequality and the climate and nature emergency.

We need your views to help shape the future of community planning in Edinburgh.

These sessions aim to bring together key partners to discuss, plan, and drive forward positive changes for communities. Your insights and contributions are highly valued, and we would be pleased if you could join us.

Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to book your place as soon as possible to secure your spot at your preferred session.

To register, please email communityplanning@edinburgh.gov.uk with your name, contact details, and the date of the session you would like to attend:

Wednesday, 23rd October | 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM | St. Bride’s Community Centre

Thursday, 24th October | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM | West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre

Monday, 28^th October | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Microsoft Teams

Magic of Christmas set to make Edinburgh sparkle this Winter

15 November 2024 – 4 January 2025

Winter Festivals

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Tickets on sale from noon Friday 4 October here

First event details and tickets released for Edinburgh’s Christmas 2024 festivities
Family favourites return including Big Wheel, Santa Stories, George Street Ice Skating, Around the World Starflyer and the Family Festive Funfair
Traditional Christmas Markets return to East Princes Street Gardens
All-New Christmas Tree Maze set to transform St Andrew Square Gardens into a festive wonderland
Free family and community entertainment at Ross Bandstand throughout November & December, including Light Night Concert and 20^th anniversary Santa Run
Local charities to benefit from Edinburgh Winter Festivals – Social Bite, When You Wish Upon A Star, One City Trust and Simon Community Scotland
Local resident discount returns to spread Christmas cheer across the city

Organisers of Edinburgh’s Christmas today unwrapped the first attractions from a bumper programme of events in the capital, bringing the gift of joy and sparkle to the city’s many residents and visitors this winter.

Running from Friday 15 November 2024 to Saturday 4 January 2025, Edinburgh’s city centre will be aglow with festive wonder, as this year’s hugely varied programme of festive favourites and fresh winter wonderlands really does have something for everyone.

From the opening weekend (Fri 15 Nov), East Princes Street Gardens launches proceedings, as the Traditional Christmas Market returns, where a multitude of market stall holders offer locally made crafts from twinkly wooden cabins. Whether visitors fancy strawberries and marshmallows dipped in chocolate, mulled wine or big bratwurst sausages, the food and drink stalls placed throughout the market cater for all tastes.

For those with a head for heights, a trip on the Edinburgh’s Christmas Big Wheel or the 80M Around the World Star Flyer offer incredible views of the city. Of course, for those who prefer to be a ground level, other rides are available and a trip on the Helter-Skelter is always a favourite.

Edinburgh’s Christmas welcomes families to West Princes Street Gardens from Saturday 16 November with the Festive Family Funfair returning with favourite rides for children young and old.

The Winter Warmer Zone with its festive food and drink stalls bringing the temperature up with some delicious hot chocolate and treats. Winter Windows Walk presents beautiful artwork from school children from across the city, part of an illumined walk beneath the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

A programme of festive fun at the Ross Bandstand throughout winter offers families even more, bringing colour and joy through the Light Night Concert (Sun 17 Nov), St Andrew’s Day Ceilidh (Sat 30 Nov), Nativity Carol Concert (Sun 1 Dec), and this year When You Wish Upon A Star celebrates 20 years of the Santa Run (Sun 8 Dec), with another spectacular fundraising event, giving kids of all ages a chance to join in the festive fun. Full programme to be announced in the coming weeks.

The following weekend sees the New Town transformed into a winter wonderland, in partnership with Essential Edinburgh. At the West End of George Street, the spectacular outdoor Ice-Rink returns, welcoming skaters to glide around the 120m rink, with spectators enjoying the action from a viewing gallery.

Moving up the street, visitors will discover a feast of festive treats, delicious food and drink, and an all-new warming area presenting live entertainment throughout winter, along with Festive Workshops, where audiences can learn new skills from Christmas Decorations & Wreath Making to Ice Carving & Mixology.

New for St Andrew Square, Edinburgh’s Christmas presents Scotland’s largest Christmas Tree Maze, inviting participants to lose themselves amongst 450 illuminated Christmas Trees, discovering festive surprises along the way.

Santa returns to the beautiful Piccolo Spiegeltent, where once again children can book a slot to hear some Christmas tales, meet the man himself and his elves in Santa’s Stories. Children can also write that all important letter to the big man and drop it straight into the Santa Post-box.

Each year Edinburgh’s Winter Festivals set out to makes lives better across the city. In 2024 the residents discount will return, offering locals over 100,000 tickets at a 20% discount for the ice-rink, Santa Stories and fairground rides, helping locals to enjoy that little bit more this Christmas.

Edinburgh’s Christmas is working with local community groups to give away thousands of tickets for fairground rides, ice-skating and Santa Stories. Donations and money raised across Edinburgh’s Christmas and Hogmanay festivals will this year be split across local charities Social Bite, When You Wish Upon A Star, One City Trust and Simon Community Scotland.

Charity donations can be made on-line when purchasing tickets and also at fundraising points around Edinburgh’s Christmas.

Edinburgh’s Christmas attractions are open daily except Christmas Day, with varying opening dates and times available at the official website. For further information and to buy tickets (from noon Friday 4 October), please go to www.edinburghwinterfestivals.com

Culture and Communities Convener Val Walker, said: “Edinburgh at Christmas is a magical experience, and it’s exciting to be announcing such a varied programme of events and attractions for 2024. We will see the return of many favourites like the Traditional Christmas Market, Santa Stories and Big Wheel, as well as a brand-new Christmas Tree Maze in St Andrew Square!

“We want Edinburgh’s Christmas to be a welcoming and inclusive experience for everyone, and this packed programme has something for families and Christmas enthusiasts of all ages.

“We are especially proud of the opportunities it affords to raise funds for local charities. The free tickets donated to charities and community groups will help spread Christmas joy across the capital. We’re also looking forward to supporting other events in communities across the city”

Roddy Smith, Chief Executive and Director of Essential Edinburgh said: “Christmas is a special time of year for everyone, it is also a really important trading period for our city centre retailers and hospitality businesses.

“We are delighted to partner with Unique Assembly to support this year’s Edinburgh’s Christmas activities encouraging our residents and visitors to come into the city centre to enjoy themselves.

“With the now well-established Ice Rink on the West End of George Street joined by the new Christmas Tree Maze in St Andrew Square Garden, we have festive fun for all ages all the way from the West End to the St James Quarter.”

Unique Assembly, producers of Edinburgh’s Christmas said: “We are thrilled to unwrap the first exciting attractions for this year’s Edinburgh’s Christmas, with a seven-week programme packed full of family favourites, plus new events and attractions to be announced.

“This year’s event promises to be one of the biggest and best ever, and we look forward to welcoming everyone when we open doors in only six short weeks!’

New Lanark has Christmas all wrapped up

Step into the magic of the festive season at New Lanark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, transformed into a winter wonderland for Christmas.

From Saturday, 30th November until Christmas Eve, the festive village is bursting with holiday cheer and delightful experiences for the whole family. This Christmas season, New Lanark has an enchanting lineup to make your festive celebrations truly unforgettable.

Running from Saturday 30th November to Tuesday 24th December, ‘Christmas at New Lanark’ promises a magical family day out filled with festive joy and excitement. The festivities will run from Friday to Sunday, with additional special openings on Monday 23rd and Tuesday 24th December.

New Lanark’s magical location, resembling a giant toy factory silently nestled at the foot of the Clyde valley, creates the perfect backdrop for a magical family day out and Christmas festivities this season, offering something for all ages.

Visitors will feel as though they’ve been transported to a bygone era, with a variety of festive activities included in the experience. Get ready to laugh and cheer with Arkeen Theatre Company’s production of Pinocchio, a 45-minute pantomime performance full of festive fun.

Your ticket includes the ‘Spirit of Christmas Ride’ embarking on a captivating journey through the magical history of Christmas on this enchanting ride. There will be Christmas Films in the Theatre; enjoy three beloved Christmas classics, screening every 45 minutes throughout the day. There will also be a Soft Play & Inflatable Assault Course, perfect for little adventurers, offering lots of festive fun and challenges.

No Christmas celebration is complete without a visit to Santa and his helpful Elves, watch the little ones eyes light up as they receive their special gift. Newly designed by NL Productions this year, Santa’s Grotto offers fun-filled family challenges and holiday cheer.

For those with sensory needs, New Lanark will host a Quiet Session on Saturday 30th November from 11am. During this time, visitor numbers will be limited to provide a calmer environment. The pantomime will take place at 11:00 am, and guests can explore the rest of the site at their leisure until 1:00 pm.

Meanwhile, the Café & Mill Shop will both be open throughout the event, offering refreshments and Christmas shopping for all your holiday needs, before exploring the historic buildings and the beautiful rooftop garden, adding to the charm of this unique Christmas experience.

Why not make a trip of it and wake up in this beautiful World Heritage Site, staying overnight at The Mill Hotel, which has all your catering needs wrapped up with festivelunches and dinners served throughout December. Book your Christmas party nights throughout December, with fabulous food and great entertainment or come along to Carols by Candlelight, an enchanting evening with Strathaven Choral Society.

Book your Party Lunch with Santa, offering a great day out for the family with lots of entertainment. The team will be serving Festive Afternoon Tea with entertainment throughout the festive season as well as a traditional Christmas Day lunch, including a visit from Santa followed by Boxing Day celebrations.

You can also bring in the bells at New Year at New Lanark’s amazing Hogmanay Gala Dinner.

Christmas Tickets & Opening Times:

Opening Times: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Ticket Prices:
- Children: £19.00
- Under 1’s: £5.00
- Adults: £15.00

Buy Christmas at New Lanark Tickets online – New Lanark (digitickets.co.uk) or via www.newlanark.org. For more information about Christmas Events at New Lanark World Heritage and other holiday events, visit www.newlanark.org