Christmas events and winter festivals in Scotland

Scotland in winter is both beautiful and full of tradition. Snow-dusted mountains, crisp coastal air, and short, glowing days create dramatic scenery for a season rich in celebration. With earlier nights, towns and cities come alive with lights, music, and traditions that bring warmth to even the coldest nights. 

From world-famous Hogmanay street parties and fiery, Viking-inspired processions to bustling and traditional Christmas markets and local cultural gatherings, winter in Scotland is anything but quiet. Across the country, there’s a full calendar of festivals celebrating history, community, and the changing season. 

Hogmanay and New Year celebrations

30 December – 1 January 

• Edinburgh's Hogmanay; Edinburgh's Hogmanay is one of the world’s most famous New Year celebrations, with street parties, concerts, and fireworks. 
• Celebrations take place across Scotland, from city centres to smaller local gatherings, like Hogmanay in Dufftown (Moray) or Hogmanay at Hill head bookclub (Glasgow). 

Christmas and festive season events

Mid-November 2026 – January 2027 

• Edinburgh's Christmas; from Christmas markets and ice skating to carolling and concerts, Edinburgh offers festive fun for all ages. Experience the magic at Edinburgh Castle’s Castle of Light, with enchanting lights and colourful displays. 
• Christmas in Glasgow; The festive season kicks off with an exciting Christmas Lighting Trail across the city centre. In previous years, a month full of fun has led up to the countdown to Christmas, including a day out at the Irn-Bru Carnival, Europe’s largest indoor funfair. 
• Dundee's Christmas Village; enjoy a wide range of fun activities for the whole family, from Christmas markets and ice skating to festive lights and meeting Santa himself.  
• Winter festivals and events in Perth; explore a vibrant programme of seasonal celebrations and activities. 
• Aberdeen's Christmas Village; the popular Aberdeen Christmas Village always features an exciting line up of events and festivities. 
• Stirling winter events; enjoy Stirling’s festivities with markets, Christmas theatre shows, family-friendly events, Santa’s Grotto and much more. 
• Christmas events in Dunfermline; Dunfermline will be hosting its own variety of events over the festive period with lots for the kids to get involved in. 
• Oban Winter Festival; head to Oban for a series of winter activities, films and light shows to celebrate the festive season. 

Cultural celebrations and traditions 

• Celebrate vibrant St Andrew’s Day events across Scotland in November. Join the festivities at  The Big Hoolie, The Dundee Hoolie, and enjoy live music and culture at the Soundhouse Winter Festival. 
• Burns Night events – 25 January 2027; choose from the lively Big Burns Supper in Dumfries, the elegant Burns Night Concert at Kelvingrove, or a truly unique experience aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh. 

More events across Scotland

December 2026 - January 2027 

Don’t miss a visit to Christmas at Blair Drummond, where you can meet incredible animals, enjoy engaging with keeper talks and let little ones make the most of playtime. Or experience a magical time in Edinburgh Zoo enjoying the Giant Lanterns event to explore a luminous coastal wonderland like never before. 

• Dress for Scottish winter weather - layer up, wear a waterproof jacket, hat and gloves, and choose sturdy footwear for outdoor festivals.  
• Wear comfortable shoes - exploring Scotland in winter often involves walking between festival sites, markets, and historic attractions.  
• Check the weather forecast - conditions can change quickly. 
• Book tickets in advance for popular events - celebrations like Hogmanay, fire festivals, and Christmas markets can sell out quickly.  
• Arrive early to key events - secure the best views at parades, torchlight processions, and live performances.  
• Charge your phone and bring a portable charger - many winter events in Scotland share digital programmes, maps, and live updates online. 
• Bring water and snacks - some outdoor festivals or rural locations have limited facilities.  
• Mind the event timings - many performances and processions start promptly, and late arrivals may not be admitted.  
• Plan travel carefully - winter weather can affect road and public transport, especially in remote parts of Scotland.