Out with the pumpkins and in with the fairy lights, candy canes and festive sparkle! Wait… how is it almost Christmas already?! Whether you’re planning your festive diary or just craving a little early-season cheer, our mission is to help get you in the spirit. So, we’ve rounded up five of the best festive events happening at St James Quarter in Edinburgh’s East End.
1. Magical Christmas Light Switch-On
Kick off the season in style and enjoy a free, family-friendly night this weekend! On Saturday 8th November, from 4pm, St James Quarter will come alive with a magical light switch-on, music, performances and family-friendly experiences. Think wandering musicians, the Tinderbox Orchestra, Christmas carols with a twist, hip-hop dancers, graceful ballerinas and festive magic on every level. And of course, Santa will make a grand entrance, St James Quarter style!
Don’t miss: Grab a photo moment with Santa and his elves on Level 3 at 6pm. Shops will also be joining in the celebration; our insider tells us Molton Brown will be serving fizz and mince pies from 5pm. Bonus points if you spot team egg out and about with their mini eggs. Tag us if you do @eggcommunity!
2. Elf Adventures
Bring the mini eggs for some festive fun and learning with Elf Adventures on Sunday 16th November and Sunday 7th December, from 11am to 3pm, at the Santa Express on Level 3.
Little ones can train to be Santa’s little helpers at Elf School (ages 3+), tackle the Elf Agility Course, make Reindeer Food (ages 3+), or cosy up for Storytime with Santa’s elves (ages 0+).
Need to know: All children must be accompanied by an adult. Drop in sessions available, no need to book in advance!
3. The Sound of Music
If you’ve ever wanted to make music magic, this one’s for you. The Tinderbox Orchestra will host a day of interactive workshops on Sunday 30th November, 10:30am-6pm. Bookable via the St James Quarter App, you can try an instrument, play with the 20-piece orchestra and even write and perform your own Christmas song! Suitable for all ages and abilities, the workshops are a unique opportunity to join one of Scotland’s most exciting musical collectives for a day of festive creativity and collaboration.
4. Santa, Choirs & Community Spirit
The Santa Express returns with a twinkling interactive photo opportunity on Level 3, while the Present Tree, in partnership with charity partner Children First, invites visitors to donate gifts for families in need. Pop-up choirs and dance performances will fill the Galleria with music and movement across the festive season.
5. Shop, Dine & Stay Late
Need a few extra hours to shop or celebrate? From 16th November, St James Quarter is extending its retail and restaurant opening hours, so you can make the most of every merry moment. Whether you’re browsing LEGO for the kids, finding the perfect scent at H Beauty or decking the halls with John Lewis décor, you can shop, dine, and toast to the season ahead.
So, grab your calendar, round up your friends and get ready for some serious festive fun at St James Quarter Edinburgh. Let the countdown to Christmas begin!
