Edinburgh's legendary Christmas celebrations once again promise to entice and astound visitors with a packed programme of events set against the stunning backdrop of this beautiful capital city.

Throughout the festive season, Edinburgh comes alive with twinkling lights, Christmas trees, markets, specially-designed attractions and exhilarating shows, finishing with a bang on Hogmanay with the biggest street party in the world.

This show-stopping offering sits alongside the city's superb selection of independent and high-street shopping, famous eating and drinking establishments and a huge variety of places to stay, within minutes of all the festivities.

EVENTS & SHOWS

Wicked, The Playhouse, 19th November – 10th January
Edinburgh audiences get a chance to see this hugely successful show which is already a winner of 100 international awards. Wicked has been casting its magical spell over audiences across the world for a decade and continues to break records at London's Apollo Victoria Theatre where it's the 10th longest running show in the West End.

Scotch & Soda, The Paradiso Spiegletent, 21st November – 21st December 2014
With physical feats and gypsy beats, Scotch & Soda features live music from The Crusty Suitcase Band and sensational, gravity-defying circus from some of Australia's finest acrobats. Come and see St Andrew's Square's stunning Speigeltent transformed into a jazz-soundtracked den of iniquity.

Edinburgh's Christmas, 21st November 2014 – 4th January 2015
Edinburgh's Christmas promises to be bigger and better than ever before with the Starflyer, Big Wheel, and Festive Markets all returning alongside an expanded Santa Land and a truly unique ice rink in St Andrew Square around the Melville Monument. The line-up of entertainment includes the return of the 19thCentury Paradiso Spiegeltent which will host shows by Al Murray, the circus sensation Scotch and Soda, all male burlesque group, Briefs and entertainment for the youngsters with Julia Donaldson's Stick Man and Baby Loves Disco.

Light Night, 23 November, 2-5pm
Christmas in Edinburgh officially starts on 23rd November with the much loved Night Light transforming the city into a magical wonderland. As darkness falls, an explosion of fireworks will reverberate across the capital as the Christmas Tree on the Mound is lit against the backdrop of Edinburgh's historic old town.

St Andrew's Day, 30th November
With a packed programme of free events, all taking place in St Andrew Square in the very heart of the city, there's no better place to celebrate Scotland's national day. With music from The Hazy Janes and The Banjo Lounge 4, storytelling and ceilidh dancing, there's something for everyone.

The Nutcracker, Festival Theatre, 13th December – 3rd January
Lovingly recreated for audiences, Scottish Ballet proudly presents Peter Darrell's The Nutcracker, over 40 years since it first premièred under the direction of the company's founding Artistic Director.

Al Murray, The Paradiso Spiegeltent, 29th December – 31st December 2014
The nation's favourite pub philosopher turns pop-up publican for a three night run over Hogmanay. Bringing his unique satirical genius to Edinburgh's Christmas, Al Murray will be joined by a host of special guests each night which includes comedy, variety and music.

Edinburgh's Hogmanay, 30 December 2014 – 1st January 2015
The world's biggest New Year festival presents 3-days of spectacular free and ticketed events at the 'Home of Hogmanay'. The famous Street-Party welcomes over 75,000 revellers to bring in the bells beneath the dramatic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle with 'Concert in the Gardens' featuring pop superstar Lily Allen alongside soul legends Soul II Soul and party favourites Bjorn Again. Whilst the main Street Party has Scotland's festival-favourites Twin Atlantic, Mercury Prize winner's Young Fathers and indie band, The Twilight Sad alongside the very best of traditional Scottish music and surprise guest DJ. It all kicks-off on the 30th Dec with a 35,000 strong Torchlight Procession through the city and ends with a packed programme of events on New Year's Day with 'Scot:Lands' which invites audiences to explore the Old town and discover something new for 2015 and the famous Loony Dook – an icy swim in the Firth of Forth on New Year's Day to clear away the cobwebs from the night before.

SHOPPING
Luxury brands, high street stores and beautiful boutiques are all available in Edinburgh. Shopping in the city is a fantastic experience catering to all tastes, styles and budgets. You won't leave empty handed.

Princes Street
Home to retail giants such as Debenhams, Frasers, Zara, Primark, M&S and the historic Jenners, this street is famous worldwide for its much loved high street fashion offering.

George Street
A chic fashion hub, with stylish brands including Hollister, Jack Wills, Karen Millen, Anthropologie, The Kooples and LK Bennett rubbing shoulders with lively bars and famous restaurants.

The West End
A stroll down the quaint cobbled streets of Edinburgh's West End 'Village' is an absolute must. Situated only a minute's walk from Princes Street, it features a delightful mix of quirky gift shops, organic food retailers, and designer fashion boutiques, including independent shoe brand, Helen Bateman.

The Greater Grassmarket
A lively restaurant, pub and shopping area beneath Edinburgh Castle, the area is buzzing with Scottish designers, artisans and independents, from selling world crafts, vintage clothing and antiques, to serving gourmet food in a vibrant al fresco setting. Treat yourself with exclusively created Scottish knitwear from Joyce Forsyth or Scottish tweed jackets, suits and knitwear from tailoring specialists Walker Slater.

Multrees Walk
Take a stroll through Multrees Walk, the definition of luxury shopping in Edinburgh and discover designer fashion and accessories from Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Tommy Hilfiger, BOSS, Harvey Nichols and Anne Fontaine.

Stockbridge
Clusters of niche independents including delicatessens, chocolatiers, antique dealers, bookstores, vintage clothing specialists and interior designers share this popular speciality shopping area with a lively pub and restaurant scene.

The Royal Mile
A tourist's mecca for gifts and souvenirs, including Scottish crafts, cashmere and whisky, alongside some of Edinburgh's oldest taverns and eateries.

Shopping Centres
Edinburgh city centre is home to two fantastic shopping centres offering a distinctive mix of high street labels.

St James Shopping is home to a selection of independent stores, as well as High Street favourites John Lewis, River Island and Next. Busy Christmas shoppers have access to two multi-story car parks within walking distance of the centre.
Edinburgh's second city centre shopping centre, Princes Mall, has an excellent offering of popular fashion brands, including Superdry and Warehouse, as well as a large food court where shoppers can fill up after being “shopped out”. The Mall is conveniently located next to Edinburgh Waverley Train Station and close to bus and tram stops.

FOOD

North Bridge Brasserie at The Scotsman Hotel, 20 North Bridge www.thescotsmanhotel.co.uk
Located in the heart of Edinburgh and using only the freshest locally sourced ingredients, the award-winning North Bridge Brasserie has a selection of festive feasts to make your Christmas extra special including elegant dinners, seasonal lunches and festive afternoon teas if you need to take a break from Christmas shopping.

The Bonham, 35 Drumsheugh Gardens www.townhousecompany.com
Considered to be one of the most stylish boutique hotels in the city, The Bonham is offering a series of special deals during the festive season including a three-course dinner for two people from the a la carte menu for £70, afternoon tea for two for £33.90 and one night's stay including a full Scottish breakfast for £170.

Galvin Brasserie, The Caledonian, Princes Street www.waldorfastoriaedinburgh.com
'The Caley', as it is affectionately known among Edinburgh locals, has embodied the very best in Scottish hospitality for over a hundred years. Situated at the west end of Princes Street, this former Victorian railway hotel nestles in the shadow of the historic Edinburgh Castle, just two minutes' walk from the designer stores and fashionable bars of George Street. Dining options at the Galvin Brasserie include the stunning Festive Prix Fixe Menu for lunch or dinner and a specially-created Christmas afternoon tea in the palatial Peacock Alley where you can relax from the hubbub of the city with a glass of fizz and mouth-watering cakes and pastries.

The Witchery, Castlehill, Royal Mile, www.thewitchery.com
At the gates of Edinburgh Castle, the Witchery is a unique, distinctive restaurant with an enticing gothic appearance. The opulent interior and Scottish cuisine befit its status as James Thomson's flagship dining venue. The Witchery has established itself as a highly desirable destination for Edinburgh locals, tourists and celebrities from around the world with this enviable location and internationally renowned a la carte menu. Definitely worth a visit.

Kyloe Steak Restaurant & Grill, 1-3 Rutland Street, www.kyloerestaurant.com
The name Kyloe, an old Scots word for Highland beef cattle was chosen for the restaurant to represent the strength and versatility of the pedigree Aberdeen Angus that award-winning chef David Haetzman serves up. Edinburgh's first gourmet steak restaurant can be found in the Rutland Hotel in the city's West End and boasts enviable views of Edinburgh Castle while you dine.

DRINK

The Dome, George Street, www.thedomeedinburgh.com
Hugely popular amongst Edinburgh residents and visitors, no festive season is complete in the capital without enjoying a meal or a champagne cocktail under the spectacular Christmas tree in the Dome's iconic restaurant. A festive tradition that needs to be experienced.

Edinburgh Gin Distillery, 1a Rutland Place www.edinburghgindistillery.co.uk
Nestled beneath the stairs at 1a Rutland Place, you'll find something of a hidden wonderland - the Edinburgh Gin Distillery. A curious playground for the palate, you can disappear down the rabbit hole and indulge yourself in the majesty and mystery of the beautiful botanical libations of some of the most seductive and exquisite gins the world has ever seen.

Whiski Rooms, 4-7 North Bank Street, www.whiskirooms.co.uk
Specialising in all things Scottish with a premium drinks range including an amazing range of whisky, wine and beers both in the bar and shop, customers are encouraged to “try before they buy”. Whisky tastings, fresh Scottish food served all day, great wine, cocktails and craft beers with regular live music in the evenings – WHISKI Rooms will offer a great Scottish experience to all.

Juniper, 20 Princes Street, www.juniperedinburgh.co.uk
If it's cocktails you're after, Juniper is the place to go. Having established itself as the most innovative cocktail bar in the city, Juniper offers exciting new flavours and combinations as well as old favourites. You can experience their smokey bacon foam, squid ink cocktails or their innovative and bespoke street food nibbles set right in the heart of Princes Street.

MARKETS

The Scottish Market, St Andrew Square, 21st November – 4th January
The Scottish Market is a winter showcase of some of the best craft, food and drink that Scotland has to offer. The treats available will include locally produced sausages, fresh seafood, Scottish brewed craft beers and unique chocolate alongside crafted jewellery, woodwork and the best Scottish accessories on offer.

European Christmas Market, East Princes Street Gardens, 21st November – 4th January
For the past 20 years in the heart of Edinburgh, the popular Christmas market has been held in its picturesque setting below the Mound. The traditional and romantic Christmas market in the heart of the city offers a unique shopping experience for every visitor with its fair of crafters, artists, gift shops and gastronomic surprises to help you get into the Christmas spirit.

Children's Market, Santa Land, 21st November – 4th January
Inside Santa Land, you'll find the magical Children's Market playing host to a selection of festive, child-friendly festive experiences. With face painting, Christmas crafts and festive children's shopping opportunities – the Children's Market is the perfect shopping destination for gifts and festive treats. Enjoy Santa Land, in East Princes Street with the very successful Christmas Tree Maze, Santa Train and Santa's Grotto along with a series of affordable family attractions priced between £1 and £4.

Edinburgh Farmers' Market, Castle Terrace, every Saturday from 9am – 2pm
The award-winning Edinburgh Farmers' Market takes place on Castle Terrace under the spectacular backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. The market has a huge variety of fresh local produce from over 50 specialist producers with the majority of stallholders growing or rearing what they sell.

Grassmarket Weekly Market, Grassmarket, every Saturday from 10am – 5pm
Every Saturday the centre of the Grassmarket becomes a flurry of excitement for this market which features an abundance of locally grown, fresh produce including organic vegetables, artisan bread, fresh fish and meat.

FAMILY FUN

Stickman: Live on Stage, St Andrew Square, 22 November 2014 – 4 January 2015
Touching, funny and utterly original, this delightful adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Sheffler's hugely popular children's book Stick Man features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves. A 'fantastick' show for all branches of the family tree!

Baby Loves Disco's Christmas Cheer, St Andrew Square, 23rd ,November, 7, 14 & 21st December 2014
After six sell-out years at Edinburgh Fringe, Baby Loves Disco brings its unique day-clubbing experience for parents with babies, toddlers and young children to Edinburgh's Christmas for the first time. Take a break from the shopping and join in as children take over the magnificent St Andrew Square Speigeltent for two hours of festive family fun.

Aladdin, Kings Theatre, 29 November 2014 – 18 January 2015
Join Allan Stewart, Andy Gray and Grant Stott for a magical carpet ride with sensational special effects produced by the world's largest pantomime producer in the King's Theatre's infamous pantomime production.

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, 5 December 2014 – 6 January
For the first time, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is being transformed inside and out for the festive season. Families will be able to explore the Palace with a special Family Activity trail, hunt for clues to discover hidden presents and learn about Victorian Christmas traditions. The Family Room will be transformed into a Christmas grotto with traditional games to play and on Sunday 21 and 28 December, an additional programme for families will include face painting and the opportunity to dress up for a festive party with replica historical clothing.

WHERE TO STAY?

Tune Hotel, 7 Clifton Terrace, www.tunehotels.com
Located directly across the road from Haymarket station, with tram and bus links to the airport, Tune hotels offer a great night's sleep at a great price. The hotel features space-efficient, streamlined rooms focusing on high-quality basics: 5-star beds and powerful hot showers.

Old Town Chambers, Roxburgh's Court, 323 High Street, www.oldtownchambers.co.uk
Edinburgh's Old Town Chambers is a collection of prestigious 5-star serviced apartments offering the luxury of a top hotel alongside the independence, freedom and space of your own home in the centre of the city. All the apartments boast beautiful quality handmade furniture and furnishings, double smoked French oak wooden flooring, Italian tiling and exposed stone walls, alongside the latest home entertainment systems and a 24 hour concierge service - on hand to find restaurants, taxis, travel guides or just recommend the best place to shop.

The George, 19-21 George Street, www.thegeorgehoteledinburgh.co.uk
With a prime location on the famous George Street, The George Hotel is one of the finest hotels in Scotland and a fabulous choice among the luxury hotels in Edinburgh. This leading 4 star, 19th century hotel is ideal whether you're on a business trip or a break in Edinburgh, hosting a wedding or special event or looking for a luxury and elegant setting for a romantic weekend.

Hotel Du Vin & Bistro, 11 Bristo Place www.hotelduvin.com/locations/edinburgh
This former asylum is now home to one of the most stylish boutique hotels in Edinburgh. It was also the former location of Edinburgh's Medical School where the infamous Burke and Hare deposited their ill-gotten corpses to Dr Robert Knox and a huge mural in the private dining room at Hotel du Vin features the infamous pair. The Whisky Snug is packed full of cosy sofas, a roaring fire and a hugely impressive whisky cabinet and if wine is more you're thing, the wine tasting room hosts the 'La Roche' wine tasting table as its centrepiece.

The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, 1 Festival Square www.sheratonedinburgh.co.uk
The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa first opened in 1985 and is one of Edinburgh's most luxurious hotels. With an enviable location in Edinburgh's city centre, the hotel has dramatic views of Edinburgh castle and is within walking distance from all of the major attractions. Following an exciting multi-million pound refurbishment, the hotel offers 269 stunning guest rooms with cutting-edge technology, glass walled bathrooms and Sheraton Sweet Sleeper beds.

CHRISTMAS OFFERS

Family tickets are available on a number of attractions at Edinburgh's Christmas. A family ticket is valid for four people – either 2 adults and 2 children, or 1 adult and 3 children and can be bought for Stick Man, Live on Stage, The Big Wheel, Star Flyer and Ice Skating. In addition a Santa Land Package is on offer which includes Race-o-Rama, Reindeer Ride, Rollercoaster, Santa Train, Swan Lake, North Pole Slide and Christmas Tree Maze.

All Edinburgh residents will receive a 20% discount on shows, rides and events by bringing proof of their address when purchasing or collecting tickets. For more information, visit:www.thisisedinburgh.com/christmas

Edinburgh's Hogmanay Street Party tickets are available to those win an EH postcode for a discounted price of £16.00 + booking fee. Offer ends 28th November.

For more information on Edinburgh's Christmas, please visit: www.thisisedinburgh.com/christmas
Edinburgh's Hogmanay visit: www.thisisedinburgh.com/hogmanay

-ENDS-

If you have media enquiries, or would like to speak to the team about a press trip to Edinburgh, please contact:
Ali Liddy ali@wire-media.co.uk  or Eva Cook eva@wire-media.co.uk  at Wire Media on 0141 440 6761
ali@wire-media.co.uk 
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