In Edinburgh and Scottish Borders

There's something about Scotland at Christmas that makes the amazing markets a must-do over the festive season, and you don't have to spend a fortune to have a good time. 

If you are around over winter, the Christmas market is an easy win for a cosy night out with friends to get you in the festive spirit.

Edinburgh's Christmas

🗓️ 15 November 2025 – 4 January 2026

📍Edinburgh City Centre

This is Edinburgh's main Christmas market, right in the city centre. Here are the key spots to check out: 

• East Princes Street Gardens – this is the classic Christmas market bit with rows of wooden chalets, fairy lights, food stalls and the LNER Big Wheel and Around The World Starflyer overhead. 
• West Princes Street Gardens – home to a lot of the funfair games, rides and more family-friendly activities. 
• George Street – this is where you'll find the ice rink looping around the street, the Polar Ice Bar and more food huts. 

Open from around 10am-10pm most days, there's plenty of time to explore the big market. 

Some of the bigger attractions are ticketed, so if you are wanting to try specific activities at the market we recommend looking them up on the website to see if you need to book your spot. 

But you don't have to spend loads to enjoy it. A wander around with a hot chocolate, some photos and sharing some street food is a solid day/night out. 

Galashiels' Heartland Market

🗓️ Saturday 6 December, 10am-4pm

📍Galashiels Market Square

Head here for a wholesome day out filled with independent traders selling homemade goodies and delicious food. This is the perfect opportunity to pick up a unique gift for a loved one or treat yourself (you deserve it!). 

There will also be performances from Creative Stage, Galashiels Town Band and the Rotary's Santa. 

It's time to explore the city lit up with a hot choc! 🎄