The Castle of Light 2024-2025 in Edinburgh

During the festive season in Edinburgh, the city's castle became one of the main attractions with its Castle of Light display. The iconic site is illuminated after dark, allowing visitors to enjoy music, drinks, or snacks from cafés or street food vendors while immersing themselves in a magical atmosphere.

The Castle of Light Highlights

Scotland’s largest projection show brings stories to life on the castle walls, including meeting Rex, the loveable lion, in the Great Hall. Visitors can walk in famous footsteps, dance through the ages in Crown Square, and, for the first time since the 17th century, “fire” Mons Meg.

Show Dates and Hours

The Castle of Light runs on November 22-23 and 29-30; December 6-7, 13-15, 20-23 and 27-30; and January 2-4 from 4.30 pm to 9 pm (last entry between 7.30 pm and 7:45 pm).

Tickets

Visitors must book tickets online in advance. An adult ticket (ages 16-64) costs £22, a concession ticket (ages 65+) is £16, and children's tickets (ages 7-15) are priced at £12. Family packages are also available, ranging from £40 to £68.

To save money, buy early bird tickets, which must be booked before midnight on September 30. An adult ticket is £19.80, a concession ticket (ages 65+) is £14.50, and a child ticket costs £11. Family packages are also available at discounted rates.

Other Christmas and New Year's Events in Edinburgh

One of the main holiday events is the Edinburgh Christmas Market, which brings in the holiday spirit to the Scottish capital during the season and offers seven weeks of cheer and fun. However, it's not the only event that can please with a festive atmosphere in Edinburgh.

West Princes Street Gardens Family Funfair (late November 2024– early January 2025)

The Family Funfair is a great option for holiday entertainment in Edinburgh, featuring various rides, attractions, and a selection of food and beverage stalls. Additionally, the Gardens will showcase the Winter Windows Schools Art Project and festive illuminations.

Santa Claus on St Andrew Square (late November 2024– early January 2025)

The little ones have a chance to enjoy a magical storytelling experience and meet Santa, while adults can visit Social Bite’s Festival of Kindness, dedicated to helping those in need during Christmas.

Edinburgh’s Christmas Ice Rink on George Street

The under-cover ice rink gives an opportunity to enjoy the fun in any weather. Afterward, visitors can warm up with a mulled wine or hot chocolate. The additional highlight is the vintage funfair, which guests can enjoy before strolling through the food and gift stalls along George Street.

Torchlight Procession (December 29, 2024)

Edinburgh's iconic Torchlight Procession it's a dazzling event that marks the kick-off of the city's renowned Hogmanay celebrations. Hogmanay is the Scottish term for the last day of the year, or New Year's Eve, and is widely considered the most important holiday in Scotland.

Thousands of participants parade through historic streets to the City Centre after dark. The marching and flickering flames create a sense of unity and celebration, featuring live music, performances, and a procession route strategically dotted with surprises. On December 31, the Street Party fills Edinburgh's City Centre with music, dancing, live bands, DJs, street theatre, a midnight countdown, and unforgettable fireworks.