Looking for a way to illuminate the dark winter nights? Edinburgh has a spectacular array of holiday events on throughout November, December and January.
Choose from an unforgettable evening at Edinburgh Castle which will be lighting up the seasonal skies with their Castle of Light display; or get lost in a world of forgotten creatures of the past at Edinburgh Zoo; or wander through the glowing gardens of the Botanic Gardens before the New Year.
With so much going on in the city, we've put together all the information you need to know if you are heading to the city for the bright lights.
Edinburgh Castle of Light
What is Castle of Light?
It is a spectacular light and projection display onto the iconic Edinburgh landmark. The walking tour around the site is likely to take around 90 minutes as you follow in the footsteps of Scottish historical figures and see the tales illustrated onto the Castle walls.
When is Castle of Light on?
Castle of Light will run every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from Thursday 14th of November to Sunday 22nd of December. (Except on Thur 28 Nov). In addition to these dates, a special 'access' night will be held on Monday 2nd of December, for guests with additional support needs. Timed entry will start from 5.30pm to 8.30pm, and the event closes at 10pm.
Where can you buy tickets?
Tickets for the event can be purchased from the Historic Environment Scotland website directly - https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/whats-on/castle-of-light
Late Night for the lights
If you're heading up to Edinburgh Castle, why not pop in and see us first? During Castle of Light, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions will be open late. With magnificent Rooftop views of the city at night and a world of illusions to explore, it's the perfect indoor evening activity.
Edinburgh Zoo - Giant Lanterns: Lost Worlds
What is the Giant Lanterns event?
A magnificent one-mile loop of beautiful hand-crafted lanterns of animals and prehistoric creatures will be on display throughout the trail. Delicious food and drink stalls will be located along the route if you want to grab a bite to eat as you roam with light creations of the past.
When are the Giant Lanterns on?
The Giant Lanterns event will be running from the 15th of November until the 26th of January. The Zoo will open for the event at 4.45pm, and the last entry will be 7.45pm with the event closing at 9pm.
Where can you buy tickets?
Tickets can be bought via the Edinburgh Zoo website on Eventbrite - https://www.edinburghzoo.org.uk/giant-lanterns-2019/
Royal Botanic Gardens - Christmas at the Botanics
What is Christmas at the Botanics event?
Wander through the beautiful botanic gardens after dark, as they are illuminated into a winter wonderland. Delight in the sounds of the Choir of the Trees and if you are lucky you might just catch Santa and his elves. Not to forget the classic spiced cider, mulled wine or hot chocolate on offer to warm you up.
When is Christmas at the Botanics on?
The event runs from 22nd of November to 29th of December (It will be closed on 25-26 Nov, 2-3, 9-10 and 25 Dec). There are 11 entry times per night and run every 20 minutes from 4.40pm (last entry at 8.00pm). The Garden will close at 10.00pm on event nights.
Where can you buy tickets?
Tickets for the event can be bought from the Edinburgh Royal Botanics website directly - https://www.rbge.org.uk/whats-on/