Edinburgh Christmas festivities

[Narcissistic1]

Hello,

I'm off to Edinburgh mid December for a few days with the missus and teenage kids who love the Christmas build up and festivities. Does anyone know where the best places are for seeing Xmas lights and giant Xmas trees in the city that might particularly stand out from the rest. Also are there any particular Xmas markets and entertainment that make Edinburgh unique?

We were there last Christmas and the market in the park next to the railway station was absolutely amazing - one of the nicest I have been to. There is also a funfair there with some scary rides.. Very, very Christmassy. Very jealous.

Check the website

www.edinburghschristmas.com/#stq=&stp=1

I would go into Jenners department store to see the massive Christmas tree and the toy department before it's gone.

The Edinburgh Christmas market is excellent. However as a result it's generally very busy. If you get a chance then it's better going mid week than at the weekend and a bit earlier.

The lanterns at the zoo are very special! Ticketed event though and can be pricey for a family.

Princess St gardens is an absolute monstrosity if you ask me and a serious accident waiting to happen on those raised platforms, but it is a good tourist expierence.

Visit to the 'big tree' in Jenner's is good too. There's also a Costa coffee upstairs on the corner of Hanover at with brilliant views of the gardens and castle.

One of the deals websites has discounted tickets for the zoo lights thing it's either itison or groupon.
Botanics lights walk is also quite spectacular but you'd need to book in advance.

The PSG Christmas market is quite divisive. 'In Princes Street Gardens, down contrived alleys full of Hansel and Gretel cottages, you encounter the smell of burnt onions and grease, and memories of childhood holidays in Blackpool or Scarborough. Two large blue industrial bins flank the entrance, and three fast food stalls stand in close competition'. It seems very popular though.

Edinburgh is having two light shows, one is at the botanical gardens, I’ve been for the last 3 years, it’s wonderful, and there is a new one at the castle. They are less busy and touristy, the Christmas market can get really busy especially if you’re going over the weekend.