The best Christmas markets Scotland has to offer
Image courtesy of Edinburgh’s Christmas
If you’re planning on getting your festive on this weekend, read Hood’s rundown of the top Christmas markets taking place across Scotland, from Inverness to Glasgow. Grab a mug of mulled wine and we’ll see you there!
Edinburgh
The capital’s own winter wonderland returns again this year to its seasonal home, Princes Street Gardens. Filled with cosy stalls selling a huge variety of confectionery, hot food and drinks to fill up on, whilst you’ll also find plenty of inspiration for your Christmas shopping. Take the family for a jam-packed festive day of fun in the heart of the capital - it’s not just shopping, you know. There’s bumper cards, ‘chair-o-planes’, carousels, Santa’s Grotto for the little ones, and of course, the Big Wheel and Star Flyer rides, to provide endless fun for friends and family alike.
On until January 4 2020
Glasgow
Make a day of it in Glasgow this Christmas with not one, but two markets! Located in the city centre, George Square and St Enoch Square lie within a mere ten-minute walk from one another, enabling you to take in the city whilst soaking up the Christmas spirit. Visit St Enoch to wander through Santa’s wonderland, bursting to the brim with snow-covered chalets boasting a range of delicacies and gifts, making it easy to get your Christmas shopping completed. And at George Square, you’ll find the helter-skelter, vintage carousel and of course, the incredible Christmas tree (over 15 metres tall!). A lively way to throw yourself into the Christmas spirit.
St Enoch market on until December 22, George Square market until December 29
Aberdeen
The Granite City will be lit once more thanks to the return of its glorious Christmas Village this December. Located on Broad Street, the Village is playing host to hundreds of log cabin stalls, as well as an ice rink and a range of rides. Soak up the Christmas spirit and allow yourself to be dazzled by the beautiful light displays - you might even get a glimpse of Santa at the Grotto! As well as the general market, individual events have also been introduced this year, including carol concerts, where you’re invited to join in with the band choir to belt out all your festive favourites.
On until December 31
Dundee
Bringing an artistic flair to the festive market scene, Dundee’s Urban Market returns. Bringing together local and Scotland-wide artists, makers, designers, producers, independent retailers and vintage / mid century traders, this is a great place to find a unique gift this Christmas. Located at the Keiller Centre for one weekend only, you’re sure to find a gift for a loved one that’s truly something special - or, something may catch your eye, after all Santa’s little helpers all deserve a treat every now and then…
December 14 and 15 only
Perth
Just before Christmas descends, head to Perth’s renowned Farmer’s Market, to stock up on your festive nibbles and Christmas stocking fillers. Boasting an array of stalls with a huge selection of food and drink goodies from some of Scotland’s best-loved homegrown brands, you’re sure to find a stash of treats and locally-sourced produce to keep the whole family happy and satisfied over the festive season.
December 21
Inverness
For the foodies amongst us, Inverness may well be top of your list this Christmas with the arrival of its Eden 2 Christmas Art, Craft & Food fair. Situated in Eden Court today and tomorrow only, get there quickly and indulge the senses with a mouth-watering range of cakes, chocolates, patisseries, sea food and more, to be accompanied with festive and speciality beverages. And if that wasn’t enough to take a visit, slightly later Inverness will host its very own Winter Wonderland for all the family. By far one of the city’s most popular events in the festive calendar for those with young families, this is a must-see attraction in Whin Park. Featuring a visit from Santa himself and his reindeer allow the wee ones Christmas to come to life as they stare in awe at the magnificent illuminations within the Park.