Edinburgh Christmas Market 2025: Crowds flock to Edinburgh city centre for first weekend of Christmas market

The opening of Edinburgh’s world-famous Christmas market this weekend has marked the beginning of festivities in the city, drawing visitors from near and far.

Hundreds of revellers flocked to Edinburgh city centre to catch some early Christmas spirit as the gates to the market opened on Saturday.

Crowds lined up to browse this year’s selection of market stalls, selling arts and crafts from everything including jewellery and Christmas baubles, ceramics and leather gifts.

There’s plenty of food and drink stalls offering festive drinks and snacks, including mulled wine, hot dogs, macaroni cheese and salt and chilli chicken. Those with a sweet tooth won’t be disappointed, with pancakes, crepes and chocolate covered strawberries to choose from.

Edinburgh’s Christmas market will run until January 4 and next week will see George Square’s ice rink and bar open on November 20.