Edinburgh is pretty magical all year round, but there's something particularly special about the city at Christmas. From its famous Christmas markets and spectacular theatre productions to world-class magic and circus, there's no shortage of festive things to do in Edinburgh this winter.
Whether you're visiting with family, planning a Christmas date, organising a night out with friends or simply looking for something to get you into the festive spirit, here are five things you won't want to miss!
1. See The Big Christmas Show at Palais du Variété
If you're looking for Christmas shows in Edinburgh, this one's a little different!
The Big Christmas Show is a festive circus and magic spectacular from the creators of the five-star Edinburgh Fringe hit Insane Magic. Expect jaw-dropping illusions, spectacular stunts, incredible circus performers and plenty of Christmas chaos.
The show features Luke Osey, Cameron Gibson, Lily Phoenix and Snookie Mono, bringing together world-class magic, comedy, hula hoops and sword swallowing.
Full disclosure: I'm Luke Osey, and this is my blog. So yes, I'm recommending my own show. But I promise it's worth it!
We're performing at the beautiful Palais du Variété in Bristo Square, which is also home to two other fantastic productions this Christmas: the internationally renowned La Clique Noël and the brilliantly chaotic Stamptown. Three very different shows, all sharing one spectacular venue.
We’re also doing The Big Christmas show in Glasgow as part of Frostfyr Winter Festival. So if that’s more local to you, check it out here.
Traditional Christmas Markets - East Princes Street Gardens - Credit Cameron Brisbane
2. Explore Edinburgh's Christmas Markets
You can't talk about things to do in Edinburgh at Christmas without mentioning the Christmas markets!
Taking over East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh's Christmas Market is packed with festive food, independent stalls, handmade gifts and plenty of opportunities to enjoy a mulled wine or two.
There's also the Big Wheel, Starflyer and plenty of festive attractions in the surrounding gardens. It's a brilliant place to soak up the atmosphere, pick up some Christmas presents or simply enjoy a festive wander through the city centre.
The markets run from 14 November 2026 until 3 January 2027.
3. See THE Christmas Panto at the King's Theatre
For a proper traditional Christmas experience, there's nothing quite like a pantomime. And this year, Edinburgh's King's Theatre has something particularly special lined up.
The Adventures of Pinocchio marks the theatre's return following its major renovation, bringing one of Edinburgh's favourite festive traditions back to its newly refurbished home.
Starring panto favourites Allan Stewart, Grant Stott and Jordan Young, expect spectacular costumes, comedy, music and all the traditional panto madness.
If you're looking for family-friendly Christmas activities in Edinburgh, this is an absolute must.
4. Experience the Magic Festival
Edinburgh is already a pretty magical city, but every December the Edinburgh International Magic Festival takes things to another level.
Running from 19–30 December, MagicFest brings together some of the world's finest magicians for an incredible programme of performances.
This year's highlights include Magical Christmas, featuring the brilliant Kevin Quantum and Ben Hart, alongside a fantastic selection of magic shows, intimate performances and unusual experiences.
One particularly special event is The Secret Room at Lauriston Castle, where magicians bring the history and secrets of this beautiful castle to life through incredible illusions and sleight of hand.
I (Luke Osey) will actually be appearing as a guest performer on 20 December, so perhaps I'll see you there!
Whether you're a lifelong magic fan or simply looking for something different, MagicFest is one of Edinburgh's most unique Christmas experiences.
5. Soak Up Edinburgh's Christmas Atmosphere
Sometimes the best thing to do in Edinburgh at Christmas is simply enjoy being here.
Sometimes the best thing to do in Edinburgh at Christmas is simply enjoy being here.
Take a wander along the Royal Mile, explore the beautiful Old Town, admire the Christmas lights on George Street or head down to Victoria Street for some festive photographs.
Grab a hot chocolate (Uplands Roast is my favourite!), find a cosy pub, enjoy some festive food and take in the atmosphere. Edinburgh really is one of the most beautiful cities in the world during the festive season.
It's also a great opportunity to discover some of the city's independent shops, restaurants and hidden gems away from the main Christmas attractions.
If you’re looking to buy gifts for loved ones, I’d highly recommend visiting the Scottish Design Exchange. Here, you can take a look at the works of over 300 wonderfully talented Scottish artists.
Make the Most of Christmas in Edinburgh!
Whether it's a spectacular circus and magic show, a traditional pantomime, the Christmas markets or discovering something new at MagicFest, there's plenty happening in Edinburgh this winter.
If you're planning a festive visit, we'd recommend booking popular shows in advance - December has a habit of getting rather busy!
Also - many attractions have discounts in place for locals! If you have an EH postcode, you may be able to access up to 20% off some events.
And if you fancy joining us for some Christmas chaos, we'd love to see you at The Big Christmas Show.
As always, if you ever need to add a touch of magic to your event, feel free to get in touch with me, Luke Osey.