Christmas Markets in Scotland 2025

There's something special about Christmas in Scotland. Sparkling lights, the scent of mulled wine, and the buzz of market stalls fill the air as towns and cities across the country come alive. Here's our guide to the best Christmas markets in Scotland in 2025. The biggest festive celebrations take place in Edinburgh and Glasgow, each hosting large Christmas markets with stalls, food, rides, and plenty of seasonal cheer.

Other cities, including Aberdeen, Perth, Stirling, Dundee, Inverness, and Dunfermline, also host smaller festive events worth exploring.

Edinburgh Christmas Market 2025

Dates: 15 November 2025 – 4 January 2026

Location: Princes Street Gardens (East and West) and St Andrew Square

Edinburgh's Christmas is one of Europe's best-known festive markets. Expect traditional wooden stalls filled with crafts and gifts, delicious street food, a family-friendly ice rink, Santa's Grotto, and spectacular rides. The city centre transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting visitors from across the globe.

Beyond the markets, don't miss Castle of Light at Edinburgh Castle.  A dazzling light trail that illuminates the historic Castle. The city's Hogmanay celebrations, famous for fireworks and live music as the New Year arrives. Edinburgh Street Party on Hogmany is a ticketed event.

Travel Tips

Edinburgh Waverley Station is beside Princes Street Gardens, and excellent bus and tram links are nearby. Parking in the city centre is limited, so public transport is recommended.

Glasgow Christmas Markets 2025

Glasgow hosts two main festive markets in the heart of the city:

• St Enoch Square Market: 18th November 2025 – 5th January 2026
• Glasgow Green, Winter Wonderland on the Green: 21st November 2025 – 5th January 2026

Christmas in Glasgow will look a little different in 2025. With George Square closed for major works the main Christmas event is moving to Glasgow Green, where you will find an open air ice rink and fairground rides.

Enjoy festive food and drink, international street food, gift stalls, and family entertainment. George Square becomes especially atmospheric with a giant Christmas tree, fairground rides, and sparkling lights.

St Enoch Square offers a lively mix of shopping and seasonal stalls on a smaller scale than George Square, perfect for soaking up Glasgow's friendly, festive spirit.

The Irn-Bru Carnival at the SEC Centre provides indoor fun from 19th December to 11th January 2026 for families. This is the biggest indoor fun fair in Europe.

Travel Tips

The St Enoch Square Market is within easy walking distance of Glasgow Central and Queen Street train stations. St Enoch also connects directly via Glasgow's Subway.

Other Christmas Events Across Scotland

While Edinburgh and Glasgow host the largest markets, other Scottish cities also embrace the festive season:

• Aberdeen – The Aberdeen Christmas Village runs from mid-November to late December at Marischal Square on weekends. It features rides, food stalls, and arts and craft stalls.
• Perth – Known for its festive fairs, pre-Christmas farmers' markets, and annual pantomime at Perth Theatre.
• Stirling - Stirling may be smaller than Scotland's biggest cities. Still, it offers a fantastic festive atmosphere with Christmas lights illuminating the historic Old Town, family-friendly markets, and community performances across the city. Blair Drummond at Christmas is a highlight for families, where visitors can meet Santa and see the park's animals.
• Dundee – Hosts winter light displays, Christmas maker markets, and smaller pop-up festive events around the city centre.
• Inverness – The Highland capital celebrates with Christmas light switch-ons, craft fairs, and local festive entertainment that reflect its Highland heritage.

Travel Tips for Visiting

• Book early: Hotels in Edinburgh and Glasgow can sell out quickly in December due to the popularity of the Christmas Markets.
• Use public transport: Trains, trams, and buses are easier than driving.
• Dress warmly: Markets are outdoors, and Scottish winters can be cold and wet.
• Visit midweek: Crowds are lighter compared to weekends.

Whether you're wandering through the world-famous Edinburgh Christmas Market or soaking up the lights of Glasgow's George Square, Scotland offers plenty of festive fun in 2025. Smaller events across other cities add to the seasonal charm, making December an excellent time to visit Scotland.

Frequently Asked Questions about Scotland's Christmas Markets

When do Scotland's Christmas markets open in 2025?

Most Christmas markets in Scotland begin in mid-November, with Edinburgh opening around the 15th and Glasgow shortly after. Many run until early January.

Which is the best Christmas market in Scotland?

Edinburgh's market is the largest and most famous, offering a complete festive experience with stalls, rides, food, and entertainment. Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Stirling also offer fantastic atmospheres worth visiting.

Do you have to pay to enter the Christmas markets in Scotland?

Entry to the main markets in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and other cities is usually free. However, certain attractions within them, such as rides, the ice rink, all require paid tickets. It's best to check official event websites for prices and booking information.