What's on in Edinburgh in December 2026

It's Christmas Time for 2026! Visit Edinburgh in December to enjoy the fairytale city, go to the Christmas Market, the Christmas Tree Festival and so much more!

Special advice from The Edinburgh Address: pack your winter wardrobe, it's chilly outside.

What's on in Edinburgh in December 2026?

Edinburgh Santa Run 2026

Join in or spectate as thousands of santas run or walk the 2.5km through Princes Street Gardens.

The aim is to have fun, collaborate and raise monies for children's charity 'When You Wish Upon A Star'. 

What? Fun run

When? December 2026 - To be confirmed

Where? West Princes Street Gardens

Santa Dash 2026

"The Santa Dash 2026 is around the trails of Cammo Nature Reserve in Edinburgh which has beautiful running routes along riverside paths, through fields and around historic buildings.

There are 2 distance options to choose from: you can either dash around the 5K or the 10K."

There is also a FREE 1km elf dash!

What? Fun run

When? December 2026 - To be confirmed

Where? Cammo Estate, Edinburgh

Edinburgh Christmas Market 2026

The Christmas market will be in full swing, with fairground rides, mulled wine and festive stalls creating a sizzling atmosphere.

What? Food, drink, shopping and entertainment

When? Mid November 2026 - Early January 2027

Where? Princes Street Gardens

Christmas at the Botanics 2026

A firm favourite for locals and visitors alike, as the gorgeous botanical gardens are lit with colourful installations and displays to wow and delight. 

This magical experience is a memorable experience. 

What? Night walk

When? Selected evenings between late November and end of December 2026 - To be confirmed.

Where? The Royal Botanic Gardens, Edinburgh

Back To The Future The Musical

First tour in the UK brings Marty McFly, Doc Brown and the DeLorean to Edinburgh for a full 4 weeks of shows. Fasten yourselves in for a fun ride for all the family. 

What? Theatre

When? 2 December 2026 - 2nd January 2027

Where?  The Edinburgh Playhouse, Edinburgh

Perfect for? Everyone, Theatre lovers

Torchlight Procession 2026

Raise funds and join thousands of walkers, creating a river of fire to raise money and awareness of homelessness. Joined by live Street Theatre, Fire Performers, Pipe Bands and Drummers, led by Vikings from Shetland’s South Mainland Up Helly Aa’ Jarl Squad.

What? Torchlight Walk

When? 29th December 2026

Where? The Meadows to the City Centre

Princes Street Gardens Concert & Fireworks 

It’s almost time to embrace the New Year! And of course, nothing is better than celebrating New Year’s Eve in the Princes Street Gardens with some good music and a wonderful fireworks show.

At midnight, say goodbye to 2026 and welcome in 2027 with the best views in the house of the fireworks over Edinburgh Castle.

This really is your ticket to the ultimate, memorable Hogmanay experience. 

What? Music and laughter

When? 31 December 2026

Where? Edinburgh City Centre

Panto 2026: The Adventures of Pinocchio

It's not Christmas without a panto.

What? Theatre for all the family

When? 28th November 2026 - 17th January 2027

Where? King's Theatre, Edinburgh

Edinburgh Zoo - Lanterns Grotto

'We’re pleased to confirm with the North Pole that Santa will be at the zoo on select evenings of Edinburgh Zoo’s Giant Lanterns event in December.'

What? Families, children

When? Select dates in December 2026 - To be confirmed.

Where? Edinburgh Zoo

Murrayfield Stadium Tours

Take a guided tour of Scottish Gas Murrayfield, the home of Scottish Rugby, and you’ll be taken inside areas of the stadium that you would never ordinarily get to see and will be regaled with stories from Scottish Rugby’s rich history - seeing what the stadium looks like day to day and learning about the preparations for international matches.

What? Sport

When? Most days in December until January 2026 - To be confirmed.

Where? BT Murrayfield

Edinburgh’s Markets

Wherever you’re staying in the city, there’s bound to be an outdoor farmers market to visit.

Treat yourself to delicious Scottish meats and cheeses from one of the artisanal stalls, or browse some Edinburgh-made arts to take home as a memento of your trip.