Your Ultimate Guide to Edinburgh Christmas Market 2024

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Your Ultimate Guide to Edinburgh Christmas Market 2024
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Edinburgh is a beautiful city to visit any time of the year, but it comes alive during the festive season, full of lights and magic. Christmas markets highlight any festive trip, and Edinburgh has many of them.

Wandering through Edinburgh's Christmas markets, the aroma of mulled wine, gingerbread and roasted chestnuts fills the air, creating a festive atmosphere. In addition, the handicraft stalls showcase the beautiful works of local artists and artisans, providing visitors with a unique shopping experience.

Besides, this time must be an excellent opportunity for the Christmas market vendors to make a fortune with the festive atmosphere. Electricity is far more critical for stalls. We highly recommend Jackery Portable Power Station, a portable power supply for charging electronics such as lights, food machines, etc.   

 

Key Takeaways:

The 2024 Edinburgh Christmas Market will be open for seven weeks from Friday, November 15, 2024, to Saturday, January 4, 2025.

Edinburgh Christmas Market is one of the most charming festive experiences in the UK. Every corner of the city is filled with festive joy.

Visiting the Edinburgh Christmas Market and experiencing exciting things is an excellent opportunity to experience the charm of Scotland's winter, such as the castle of light, torchlight procession, lighting ceremony, etc.

Setting up a stall at the Edinburgh Christmas Market requires some valuable skills to be successful.

The Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 or 1000 Plus can help the Christmas Market vendors charge essential electronics conveniently.     

 

When Is the Edinburgh Christmas Market 2024? 

Every winter, Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, transforms into a magical wonderland full of festive joy. The Edinburgh Christmas Market, one of the city's most popular winter activities, attracts thousands of tourists to experience the unique festive atmosphere. The market usually kicks off in mid-November each year and lasts seven weeks until early January of the following year.

Generally, several traditional wooden stalls in the Edinburgh Christmas Market sell various Christmas gifts, handicrafts and food. Visitors can find unique Scottish souvenirs here, such as Harris Tweed products, handmade ceramics and glass products.

In addition, the market also offers a wealth of festive food, including traditional Scottish snacks such as bacon, chips and mulled wine so that you can feel a touch of warmth in the cold winter. On December 31, the market will also hold a grand celebration to welcome the new year's arrival.

When is the opening time of the Edinburgh Christmas Market in 2024?

The 2024 Edinburgh Christmas Market will be open for seven weeks from Friday, November 15, 2024, to Saturday, January 4, 2025. In 2024, this Christmas market in the Scottish capital will still attract countless tourists and become an indispensable part of Edinburgh's winter.

In short, the 2024 Edinburgh Christmas Market will be a festive destination full of joy, food and shopping. Both residents and foreign tourists can find their festive memories in this market. If you don't visit one or two Christmas markets, the British winter is incomplete, and Edinburgh is one of the best.

 

Why Should You Visit Edinburgh Christmas Market 2024? 

Edinburgh Christmas Market is one of the most charming festive experiences in the UK. Every corner of the city is filled with festive joy. Whether you are strolling through the bustling market or enjoying the fun on the Ferris wheel, this event brings magical moments to everyone.

Here are a few reasons why you should visit Edinburgh Christmas Market 2024:

Strong Festive Atmosphere

Edinburgh's Christmas market is in the city centre, decorated with colourful lights and a giant Christmas tree. The ice rink, Christmas tree and Ferris wheel in Princes Street Gardens create an intense Christmas atmosphere. In addition, strolling among the bustling crowds, you can feel the solid festive atmosphere, as if you are in a fairy tale world.

Rich Food

There are a variety of food stalls at the Edinburgh Christmas Market, serving local specialities and international snacks. Whether you are a vegetarian or a meat eater, you can find food that suits your taste here.

Shopping Paradise

At the Edinburgh Christmas Market, you can buy various gifts and souvenirs, such as scarves, hats, clothes and other textiles, badges, figurines, plush toys and other crafts. In addition, you can also find many Scottish-style products, such as Harris Tweed products.

Learn About Local Culture

During the Edinburgh Christmas Market, Edinburgh will also hold a variety of cultural performances and music events. Take this opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Scotland. During this period, you can enjoy traditional Scottish dance and music performances and feel the unique artistic charm of Scotland.

In short, the Edinburgh Christmas Market is full of festive atmosphere, food, shopping, and cultural experiences. It is a tourist destination that is not to be missed during Christmas. Whether you want to shop, taste food, or enjoy the festive atmosphere, this place can meet your needs.

 

Edinburgh Christmas Markets and Top Things to Do

As winter approaches, the historic city of Edinburgh is surrounded by festive lights and laughter. Edinburgh has many Christmas markets. The massive East Princes Street Garden Market is the most famous, but several smaller markets are equally charming. In short, visiting the Edinburgh Christmas Market is an excellent opportunity to experience the charm of Scotland in winter.

Here is a brief introduction to several Edinburgh Christmas markets:

 

edinburgh christmas markets 2024

East Princes Street Gardens

Where: Princes Street Gardens, from Waverley Bridge entrance

When: November 15 2024 – January 4 2025

Official Website: edwinterfest.com

East Princes Street Gardens is Edinburgh's primary Christmas market. It is set in the heart of East Princes Street Gardens is Edinburgh's primary Christmas market. It is set in the heart of Edinburgh's historic city centre, with iconic sights such as Edinburgh Castle, the Scott Monument, the Balmoral Hotel and Calton Hill providing a spectacular backdrop. The market also has many attractions, including the Christmas Wheel, the Star Flyer and Santa's Land, perfect for families with children.

Its Christmas market is free to enter and features around 70 festive stalls. The market brings together the best local and international artisans and offers various goods, from handmade gifts and custom products to delicious snacks and drinks. East Princes Street Gardens also has Scotland's tallest (46 meters high) Ferris wheel, which allows you to see the city from a unique perspective.

West Princes Street Gardens

Where: Princes Street Gardens, from Princes Street entrance

When: November 16 2024 – January 4 2025

Official Websiteedwinterfest.com

This family-friendly area at West Princes Street Gardens also features a light trail and amazing views of Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town. The family playground offers a range of delightful rides and attractions. This free-to-enter, family-friendly area has a variety of exciting rides and attractions, as well as festive food and drink stalls for the whole family to enjoy.

Everyone can enjoy a delicious hot chocolate at West Princes Street Gardens or a seasonal mulled wine from the festive food and drink stalls in the gardens. Other events at West Princes Street Gardens during the Christmas Market include live music, a Kelly Dance, a silent disco, carol concerts and a Diwali Festival of Lights.

St Andrew Square Winter Garden

Where: St Andrew Square, Edinburgh

When: November 23 2024 – December 24 2024

Official Website: edwinterfest.com

The Christmas market at St Andrew Square Winter Garden focuses more on combining tradition and modernity. It is also an excellent place to buy local handicrafts, Scottish specialities and festive traditions. You can also find handmade jewellery, leather products, and pottery at St Andrew Square Winter Garden. In addition, the Christmas market at St Andrew Square Winter Garden also features traditional amusement facilities such as carousels and ice skating rinks, providing family visitors with a wealth of entertainment options.

George Street West & Castle Street

Where: 115-141 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 4LH

When:

Venue

Opening Times

George Street Ice Rink

November 22, 2024 – January 04, 2025

Corrie Inn

November 23, 2024 – January 04, 2025

Polar Ice Bar

November 25, 2024 – January 04, 2025

Castle Street

Nov 25, 2024 – Dec 22, 2024 10:00 - 18:00

Official Website: edwinterfest.com

West George Street is the place to be for the Christmas Ice Rink in Edinburgh, an essential part of any Christmas visit. Stretching across George Street between Charlotte Square and Castle Street, this hidden rink is more significant than last year, allowing more visitors to glide on the ice while admiring the majestic Georgian skyline of Edinburgh's New Town. After a lap on the rink, you can enjoy a hot drink or a snack in the nearby warming area of temporary stalls.

In addition, an artisan Christmas market has appeared on Castle Street, showcasing the Christmas must-haves of Edinburgh's New Town shopping streets.

Top Things To Do in Edinburgh at Christmas

The Edinburgh Christmas Markets 2024 is more than just a place to shop; it also offers a range of colourful activities to bring the city to life during the most beautiful time of the year. So, what other fun things can you experience during Christmas in Edinburgh besides visiting the Christmas markets? Here are some fun things to experience in Edinburgh during Christmas:

 

top things to do in edinburgh at christmas

The Castle of Light

Don't miss the Castle of Light at Edinburgh Castle between November 22 and January 4. The Castle of Light allows you to experience an adventure after dark with amazing lights, interactive installations and spectacular projections.

Torchlight Procession

The Torchlight Procession on December 29, 2024, is an unforgettable event in Edinburgh. The Torchlight Procession will start from the Meadows and pass through the historic Old Town. During the procession, thousands of participants will illuminate the streets of Edinburgh with burning torches, forming a stunning river of light from the Meadows to the historic Old Town.

Edinburgh Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony 2024

Where: The Mound

When: November 18

In keeping with tradition dating back to 1947, the impressive Christmas tree is lit on the Mound in Edinburgh. The lighting ceremony, usually accompanied by music and performances, marks the start of the city's fantastic Christmas celebrations.

Santa Fun Run & Walk

Where: West Princes Street Gardens

When: December 8

A highlight of the Christmas season for families is the Edinburgh Santa Fun Run and Walk on December 8, 2024. For this charity event, everyone can wear their favourite Santa costume.

Edinburgh Hogmanay Parties

Where: Across Edinburgh

When: December 31

Hogmanay is one of Edinburgh's biggest parties of the year. Enjoy live music, street performers, bagpipers, drummers and a spectacular midnight fireworks display lighting up the city skyline, all against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

 

Tips for Visiting Edinburgh Christmas Market 2024

As the 2024 Edinburgh Christmas Market approaches, many tourists and locals look forward to an unforgettable time in this festive place. Here are some things to consider when visiting the 2024 Edinburgh Christmas Market.

 

tips for visiting edinburgh christmas market

Tip 1: Weather Preparation

Edinburgh is located in Scotland, and the weather during Christmas can be cold and windy. Therefore, protect yourself from the cold and bring rain gear to prevent rain and snow.

Tip 2: Tickets and Reservations

Understand the opening hours and main activities of the Edinburgh Christmas Market to plan your trip and visit time reasonably.

  • Tickets: Entry to Edinburgh's Christmas venues is free, but you may need to pay for additional rides and attractions. Tickets can be booked in advance.
  • Reservations: Due to the large flow of people during the Christmas market, some periods may require online reservations in advance. Please pay attention to the latest announcements on the official website or social media platforms.

Tip 3: Transportation

Edinburgh has a well-developed public transportation system, which makes it easy to reach the market location. Therefore, please choose public transportation (such as buses and trains) to go to the Christmas market.

Tip 4: Safety Tips

Have a safe experience visiting the Edinburgh Christmas Market through the following aspects:

  • Personal safety: Avoid crowded areas to avoid stampedes. Also, take care of personal belongings (mobile phones, wallets, etc.), especially in crowded places.
  • Food safety: You should choose stalls with good hygiene conditions for dining and avoid food poisoning and other problems.
  • Emergency contact information: Understand the local emergency contact information, such as police, emergency, and other telephone numbers, so that you can seek help in an emergency.

Tip 5: Civilised Visit

When visiting the Edinburgh Christmas Market, respect local cultural customs and abide by public order. In particular, do not litter and keep the environment clean.

Tip 6: Special Tips

Most stalls at the Edinburgh Christmas Market only accept card payments, so please carry a debit or credit card. In addition, markets often have facilities and services for visitors with special needs, such as wheelchair users or those with visual or hearing impairments. Please get in touch with market management in advance for details.

 

Tips for Starting a Business at the Edinburgh Christmas Market

As Christmas approaches, Edinburgh's Christmas Market becomes one of the most lively places in the city. Here are some valuable tips for setting up a stall at Edinburgh Christmas Market:

 

tips for starting business at endinburgh christmas market

Tip 1: Determine the Product

Research the hot-selling products in the market, which can be obtained by observing other vendors or through online data. Based on the market research results, determine the type of goods you want to sell. Try to provide unique products, attracting customers looking for unique gifts.

Tip 2: Stall Permit

Ensure you have obtained permission and necessary documents to set up a stall at Edinburgh Christmas Market. It may involve communication with local authorities or market management.

Tip 3: Determine Prices

Based on market research, set a reasonable price range. In addition, make sure all products are marked with prices to avoid price disputes with customers. To attract customers, consider offering preferential activities, such as buy two, get one free or gifts with a certain amount.

Tip 4: Marketing Promotion

You can distribute flyers or small gifts in the market to guide customers to your stall. You can also use social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, etc., to promote your stall and products in advance.

Tip 5: Stall Layout

First, ensure the stall is neatly arranged, and the products are classified for easy browsing and customer selection.

Secondly, bright lights and colourful decorations should attract customers' attention. I was hanging Christmas lights or decorative wreaths to enhance the Christmas atmosphere.

Finally, if your stall requires electrical equipment, such as lighting, refrigeration equipment or power tools, then backup power is necessary. Edinburgh Market may provide main power, but considering emergencies or unstable power supply factors, backup power can ensure your business is unaffected.

Jackery Portable Power Station has large capacity, strong power, multiple interfaces, fast charging and broad applicability, making it the perfect choice for backup power in outdoor scenes. First, you can decorate the table more beautifully using warm lighting, candlelight, and flowers. Second, you can play relaxing music to make the dinner more pleasant. Find or choose a portable power station, like Jackery Portable Power Station, to charge appliances and electronics, such as your lights, portable speakers, projectors, and more, especially for outdoor parties.

 

Jackery Portable Power Stations for Christmas Markets 

Christmas markets are now an essential part of holiday events in Britain. People love to eat German sausage, drink mulled wine, and fall on the pop-up ice rink. They also need enough electricity to run Christmas market stalls.

Many Christmas markets nationwide depend on temporary power generators to run smoothly. With new generator technology from Jackery, these markets can last longer than ever. Festival markets are popping up everywhere and getting bigger than ever. They're so popular that tour companies offer flights to the most famous ones for European vacations.

 

how jackery solar generator works

Jackery is famous for its solar products, such as solar panels, portable power stations, and solar generators. We highly recommend Jackery Portable Power Stations (range from 99Wh to 12 kWh) for the Christmas Market vendors to charge electronics quickly.  

Jackery launches a Christmas Event with up to 46% OFF at this festive time! The promotion runs from December 4 to 16. Also, unlock the daily Christmas countdown calendar benefits now.

Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus

The Explorer 1000 Plus features an impressive 1264Wh durable LiFePO4 battery and a 2000W full-power pure sine wave inverter, supplying sufficient energy for almost all essential devices. Remarkably, it can augment its capacity to 5kWh by incorporating up to three more battery packs, which is enough for powering electronics or appliances on the Christmas market.

The MPPT technique guarantees 99% efficiency in solar charging. A wall charge from 0% to 100% of the battery requires 100 minutes, whereas solar charging with four SolarSaga 200W solar panels necessitates 2 hours. With automobile charging capabilities, you will no longer need to concern yourself with power loss, even impacting your business at the Edinburgh Christmas market.

Our products use packaging that is entirely eco-friendly and recyclable, with zero emissions, emphasising our dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Jackery has attained a pioneering position in the industry by securing Carbon Footprint Verification from TÜV SÜD. This acknowledgement includes a variety of products.

 

jackery explorer 1000 plus

The working hours for appliances or electronics used at the Christmas market:

  • Light (20W): 7-212.5H
  • Portable Cooler (350W): 1-12.1H
  • Electric Grill (700W): 5-6.1H
  • Portable Speaker (200W): 4-21.3H
  • Projector (300W): 6-14.2H

*Review from Our User

We have encountered this situation three times in the past four days: a significant electrical service interruption with power shut off, a blown fuse in the power lines down the road, and an outage caused by Hurricane Helene winds. I utilised one Explorer 1000 Plus to maintain the freezer's operation and another to supply the TV and internet power. I own 5 Jackery generators in different sizes, and the Jackery website helps determine the right choice for various appliances.

Jackery Explorer 1000 v2

For those who want a portable power supply for Edinburgh Christmas markets, Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 is the smallest and lightest 1 kWh generator for outdoor use. It has a higher capacity and charges more for outdoor appliances, making it more suitable for a small business or stall than the Explorer 1000 Plus.

The Explorer 1000 v2 portable power station provides a phenomenal 1500W output, 50% more than prior editions, to efficiently run high-demand needs, including refrigerators, ovens, portable air conditioners, etc. With USB-A/C connections and up to 100W dual PD charging, it can charge several devices (phone, laptop) concurrently, therefore serving as the best friend for all your power requirements.

The Emergency Charge Mode lets the Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station be wholly charged in less than an hour, providing vital power backup when your battery runs low. If you want to recharge it, it will take 1.7 hours for wall charging or 12 hours for the car charging. Besides, 2*SolarSaga 100W solar panels will take 7.5 hours to recharge fully.   

The Explorer 1000 v2 is more portable and lighter than conventional products. It weighs only 23.8 pounds and 18% smaller than its predecessor. It is equipped with a foldable, compact handle that facilitates transportation.

 

jackery explorer 1000 v2

The working hours for appliances or electronics used at the Christmas market:

  • Light (20W): 5H
  • Portable Cooler (350W): 6H
  • Electric Grill (700W): 3H
  • Portable Speaker (200W): 5H
  • Projector (300W): 3H

*Review from Our User

I purchased the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 and a 100W solar panel and took advantage of a great deal on the car charger cable, which was offered at a 47% discount. The items arrived in excellent packaging, and high-quality materials were used. I've only utilised the 1000v2 and am currently charging through mains due to limited sunlight, but I trust the solar and car charging systems will perform well.

 

Edinburgh Christmas Market 2024 FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about the Edinburgh Christmas markets in 2024:

  1. What date are the Edinburgh Christmas markets in 2024?

The 2024 Edinburgh Christmas markets will be held in East Princes Street Gardens, West Princes Street Gardens, George Street and St. Andrew Square, filling the whole of Edinburgh with festive joy. The 2024 Edinburgh Christmas markets will open on Friday, November 15, until January 4, 2025. However, the opening times of different Christmas markets in Edinburgh are different. Please follow Winterfest for specific information.

  1. What time is the Edinburgh Christmas market open?

The 2024 Edinburgh Christmas market will open on Friday, November 15, but different Christmas markets have different opening times. Here are the opening times of several major Christmas markets in Edinburgh:

  • East Princes Street Gardens: November 15, 2024
  • West Princes Street Gardens: November 16, 2024
  • St Andrew Square: November 23, 2024
  • George Street: November 22, 2024
  • Castle Street: November 25, 2024

In addition, different Christmas markets in Edinburgh have different opening times. Please check the specific opening times at edwinterfest.com.

  1. How much are tickets to Edinburgh Christmas Market?

Generally, entry to Edinburgh's Christmas venues is free. However, you may have to pay for additional rides and attractions, which can be booked in advance or purchased on the day.

 

Final Thoughts

In short, the Edinburgh Christmas Market is not only a place for shopping but also provides a variety of entertainment activities. Edinburgh Christmas in 2024 will host events, celebrations, markets, and performances to make the city vibrant during the most beautiful time. Bring your family and friends to the Edinburgh Christmas Market for an unforgettable festive season!

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