Edinburgh set to sparkle this winter

Christmas in Edinburgh is a month of winter festivities and events bringing the stunning and historic city literally sparkling to life.

From late November Edinburgh lights up with markets, entertainment and events which draw thousands of locals and visitors every year. An undoubted highlight of this year’s programme will be Scotland’s first Art Car Parade, a one-off event marking the official launch of festivities with an electrifying procession through the heart of the city.

Beneath the dramatic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, thousands of fairy lights illuminate the streets and gardens where activities include one of Europe’s largest outdoor ice rinks, the iconic Big Wheel swirling with colour and lights and a range of exhilarating fun fair rides, combining to create a breathtaking way to celebrate Christmas.

After building up an appetite visitors can sip traditional Gluhwein and browse handcrafted gifts at the popular German market, while the Highland village market is perfect for foodies, selling first class produce sourced from throughout Scotland. This year a new lantern parade, twinkling through the city streets, will mark the arrival of Santa himself in Princes Street Gardens, before thousands take to the streets for the Great Santa Run. At Christmas Edinburgh is one of Europe’s most memorable destinations for romantic getaways, family adventures, cultural explorations and shopping breaks.

For more information visit Edinburgh.org or VisitScotland.com.