Christmas has finally arrived.
Well, not really. The big day, of course, doesn’t actually land for a week or so yet.
But, here in Edinburgh, we like to do things a little bit differently. From the end of November – or thereabouts – the Christmas fever begins to spread across our delicious and decadent city.
A Christmas market here, a light show there. Slowly, but very surely, our great capital transforms into a very merry and joyful Christmas land.
There is much to see and enjoy for all ages. Whether you’re Buddy The Elf or The Grinch, you can’t fail to feel your heart grow just that little bit bigger as the tinsel twinkles and the echo of carols fill the air.
So, pick out your favourite Christmas jumper and treat yourself to a mince pie. Because we’re going to tell you our top ten things to do in Edinburgh this Christmas.
Christmas Markets: Every year towards the end of November, Edinburgh serves up some of the best festive markets that you will see anywhere in the world. Bright lights, jolly tunes, Gluhwein, bratwurst…Gosh, our Christmas vibes are tingling at the thought. Head down to the east end of Princes Street to get all of the great atmosphere, but don’t miss out on George Street, St Andrew’s Square and the more child friendly option in Princes St Gardens…It’s time to get in the spirit!
Theatre: That’s right, ladies and gentlemen! Christmas is here and that can only mean one thing: Panto season! “Oh no it isn’t”…Okay, we’ll spare you the clichés. But there really isn’t anything more quintessentially British during December than a visit to the theatre. This year, The Festival Theatre are having a mad old time with ‘The Pantomime Adventures Of Peter Pan’, which will be a fun time out for all of the family. Or, for something a bit different, why not try The Snow Queen at The Lyceum Theatre just off Lothian Road? Either way, if the cold and wet weather is bringing you down, book yourself a seat for the season’s latest extravaganza….’It’s behind you’”…. Sorry.
Botanic Gardens: If you’ve gobbled up all of that Christmas spirit at the Christmas markets and the local theatre, but are still craving even more, then may we recommend a visit to the annual Christmas at the Botanics. Sparking colours, inspiring projections, a seasonal snack, a glimpse of the jolly man himself (Santa, not me)…It really is a magical experience that you have to see to believe. But do hurry! Tickets sell out fast in this highly sought after event. We promise you, it will be well worth it.
The Dome: For those of you who have spent any time hanging around the east end of George Street over previous Decembers’, you’ll no doubt have noticed many groups of people taking photographs of, and with, some beautifully decorated pillars that appear straight from a seasonal postcard. This, ladies and gentlemen, is The Dome. Go, for absolute sure, and take your snaps to show your friends and share on Instagram. But, let us tell you that the joy does not end there. The Dome is a very well-known and highly regarded place to stop for food, drinks and enjoy some good times with those you love. And isn’t that, after all, what Christmas is all about? So go along and be utterly amazed by what you see, hear and taste. A festive treat that will blow your stockings off.
Christmas Shopping: For a lot of us, getting together all the gifts you need for friends and family can be a stressful affair. Mum, Dad, boyfriends, girlfriends, best friends, old friends…But, if you’re going to do it, why not do it here, in a city that embraces, loves and cherishes this most magnificent time of year. The stores are filled with the season’s glow and music we all love. You don’t have to spend much. That’s not what it’s all about. Just enjoy what Edinburgh’s beautiful stores have to offer and share in the experience of this time that comes only once a year.
Christmas is the most wonderful period of the year. And, here in Edinburgh, we know how to do it right.
Are there any activities that you like to attend in the city around about now? What did we miss out on? Be sure to let us know.
In any case, from everyone here at Belvoir Edinburgh, we hope you all have a holly jolly Christmas.
