The Christmas season is upon us and what better way to celebrate than to attend some festive light shows in Edinburgh. Beyond the Christmas markets, light shows are one of the best ways to enjoy the season! The Christmas light displays are all over the city and beyond, so read on to discover five recommendations for the best ones to go to.
Castle of Light Show
If you see any light show in Edinburgh this Christmas, the Castle of Light should be top of your list! Watch Edinburgh Castle be transformed into an explosion of projected colour and displays. This spectacle is running throughout December, with shows on the 8th of December for visitors with special needs requirements. This includes quieter shows and shows with audio assistance or a BSL guide.
A beautiful display to behold, it is definitely worth a visit. Adult tickets are priced £20.
Spectacle of Light, Dalkeith Country Park
Located a little outside of Edinburgh, Dalkeith Country Park is running their annual Spectacle of Light show! Entry slots run every 15 minutes from 16:30 until 19:00, with tickets costing £21.60 per person. During and after viewing the stunning spectacle, indulge in some warm mulled wine and marshmallows! The Light Show runs all throughout December, so be sure to book your tickets soon.
Christmas at the Botanics
For those who want to stay closer to central Edinburgh, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens. See feathers floating down from the trees and sparkling lilies bursting from the ponds in this explosion of colour!
You can get your tickets at just £21.50 per person all throughout December.
Also make sure to wear warm clothing- the light show follows an outdoor walking trail throughout the gardens!
The Enchanted Forest
Featuring Scotland’s longest light tunnel, The Enchanted Forest is a must-see this festive season! Within Beecraigs Country Park, the 1.8km display trail is a wonder to behold. With trees lit up under the moonlight and open through all of December, you don’t want to miss this display!
Street food and drinks are available to buy separately as well for those who want a festive pick-me-up! Tickets are available for adults at £21.92 each on their website, so snap some up quickly.
Edinburgh Christmas Light Switch-on
Plenty of areas in and around Edinburgh have yet to turn on their Christmas lights! Christmas Lights switch on’s are a fun and festive way to spend an evening, getting into the spirit of Christmas with neighbours all sipping mulled wine together! We’ve summarised a few of the best ceremonies to visit. If you’re located in Newington, head to St Patrick’s Square for their ceremony on the 7th of December at 7pm. Alternatively, Prestonfield is turning on their Christmas Lights on the 12th of December at 5.30pm. For any Portobello residents, your Christmas lights are turning on at 6pm on December 8th.
With so many to attend, you’ll be overcome with festive spirit!
Whether you go to some Christmas light shows in Edinburgh or the notorious Edinburgh Christmas Market, make sure you have a jolly, festive time!
Last Updated on November 1, 2024
Published on November 30, 2021