Edinburgh Christmas Market: Your 2019 Guide

Hey everyone! Get ready to get your festive spirit on because we're diving deep into the magical world of the Edinburgh Christmas Market 2019. If you're looking for a truly unforgettable holiday experience, then Edinburgh in December is the place to be, guys! The city transforms into a twinkling wonderland, and the market is the absolute heart of it all. In 2019, the market was a spectacular display of festive cheer, offering everything from unique gifts and delicious treats to thrilling rides and cozy atmospheres. Let's explore what made it so special and what you can expect if you're planning a trip.

The Heart of the Festivities: East Princes Street Gardens

The Edinburgh Christmas Market 2019, like many years, was primarily set up in the stunning East Princes Street Gardens. Imagine this: you're surrounded by the iconic Edinburgh Castle perched majestically above, while below, the gardens are brimming with stalls, twinkling lights, and the cheerful buzz of people enjoying the season. This location provides a breathtaking backdrop, making every photo op absolutely Instagram-worthy. In 2019, the market really leaned into this unique setting, with the lights reflecting off the castle walls and the crisp winter air filled with the scent of mulled wine and cinnamon. It’s more than just a market; it’s an immersive experience that truly captures the essence of Christmas. The sheer scale of it in 2019 was impressive, with different zones catering to various tastes, from the bustling main thoroughfare packed with shoppers to quieter corners offering a more relaxed vibe. You could easily spend hours just wandering, soaking it all in, and discovering hidden gems among the hundreds of stalls. The atmosphere was electric, a perfect blend of traditional Christmas charm and vibrant city life, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike during the 2019 festive season.

What to Expect: Stalls, Food, and Fun!

When you talk about the Edinburgh Christmas Market 2019, you're talking about a smorgasbord of delights. For starters, the shopping! This market is renowned for its artisan crafts and unique gifts. Forget your generic souvenirs; here you'll find handmade jewelry, quirky Scottish-themed presents, cozy knitwear, beautiful ceramics, and so much more. It’s the perfect place to tick off everyone on your Christmas list with something truly special. In 2019, there was a fantastic array of local and international vendors, ensuring a diverse selection. You could find everything from traditional wooden toys to intricate glass ornaments. Now, let's talk food and drink because, let's be honest, that's a huge part of the fun, right? The market in 2019 was a culinary adventure. Think hearty German bratwurst, creamy hot chocolate, warm waffles drizzled with Nutella, and of course, the quintessential mulled wine (or mulled cider for those who prefer!). There were also plenty of other international food stalls offering everything from Spanish churros to Asian noodles. It was a foodie paradise! And for the thrill-seekers? The market always boasts a selection of rides. In 2019, the iconic Big Wheel offered panoramic views of the city and the twinkling market below – a truly magical experience. There were also traditional fairground rides that brought out the inner child in everyone. The combination of unique shopping, incredible food, and exhilarating rides, all set against the backdrop of Edinburgh's historic beauty, made the 2019 market an unforgettable event for everyone who attended. It was a true celebration of the holiday season, bringing people together to share in the joy and wonder of Christmas.

More Than Just a Market: The Wider Edinburgh Experience

While the Edinburgh Christmas Market 2019 was undoubtedly the star of the show, it's important to remember that it’s just one piece of the incredible festive puzzle that is Edinburgh during the holidays. The entire city embraces the Christmas spirit! In 2019, as you wandered through the streets, you'd encounter stunning Christmas lights illuminating the historic architecture, pop-up bars serving festive cocktails, and other smaller markets and events scattered throughout the city. Think of the George Street Ice Rink – always a popular spot for some festive fun and a bit of friendly competition on the ice. Or the Scottish Market often held on George Street, offering more local produce and crafts. The city's famous Hogmanay celebrations (New Year's Eve) also build upon the Christmas festive atmosphere, making the entire winter period a truly special time to visit. The Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden might host its own light show, and various theaters put on pantomimes and Christmas shows, adding to the rich tapestry of festive entertainment. It's this holistic approach to the holiday season that makes Edinburgh stand out. The Christmas market acts as a central hub, drawing people in, but the festive cheer radiates throughout the city, creating a cohesive and magical experience. So, when you plan your trip around the market, be sure to explore all the other wonderful offerings Edinburgh has in store during the 2019 festive period. It’s an opportunity to create a truly multi-faceted holiday experience, blending traditional market delights with the unique cultural offerings of this historic Scottish capital. The energy is infectious, and the memories you make will last a lifetime, cementing Edinburgh's reputation as one of the best Christmas destinations in the UK.

Tips for Visiting the Edinburgh Christmas Market

Alright guys, so you're convinced, right? You want to experience the magic of the Edinburgh Christmas Market 2019 for yourself. To make sure your visit is as smooth and enjoyable as possible, here are a few tips that really helped us out back in 2019. First off, go during the week if you can. Weekends, especially closer to Christmas, get incredibly busy. Visiting on a weekday means shorter queues for rides, less crowding at the food stalls, and a more relaxed browsing experience. If you have to go on a weekend, try to go earlier in the day, perhaps late morning, to beat the biggest crowds. Secondly, dress warmly and in layers. Edinburgh in winter can be chilly, and while the market is bustling, you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors. Think hats, scarves, gloves, and sturdy, comfortable shoes – you'll be doing a lot of walking! Waterproofs are also a good idea, just in case. Thirdly, budget wisely. While it's easy to get carried away with all the delicious food and tempting gifts, it's good to have an idea of how much you want to spend. Many vendors accept card payments, but having some cash on hand for smaller purchases or specific stalls is always a good plan. Also, consider the cost of rides and food – it can add up! Fourth, plan your visit to the rides. If there's a specific ride you absolutely want to go on, like the Big Wheel, check the operating times and be prepared for potential queues. Sometimes, going during off-peak hours (like early afternoon on a weekday) can be your best bet. Finally, make a day of it. Don't just rush in, grab a bratwurst, and leave. Explore the different sections of the market, take your time enjoying the atmosphere, maybe catch some live music if there's any scheduled, and definitely take advantage of the stunning views from the rides. The Edinburgh Christmas Market 2019 was a fantastic event, and these tips should help you make the most of your own festive adventure. Enjoy the magic!

Planning Your 2019 Edinburgh Christmas Market Trip

Planning is key to unlocking the full potential of the Edinburgh Christmas Market 2019. While the dates for 2019 have passed, understanding the typical timeframe helps future planning. Generally, the market opens in mid-November and runs right up until Christmas Eve, sometimes even a few days into the New Year. For 2019, the market officially opened its gates on November 15th and concluded on December 24th. This extended period offers ample opportunity to visit. Accommodation in Edinburgh during the festive season gets booked up very quickly, especially for popular dates like weekends in December. Book your hotel or accommodation as far in advance as possible. Consider staying slightly outside the absolute city center for potentially better rates, but ensure good transport links. Traveling to Edinburgh is straightforward, with Edinburgh Airport (EDI) well-connected internationally and domestically. The city center is easily accessible from the airport via tram or bus. If you're traveling by train, Edinburgh Waverley is a major station right in the heart of the city, making it incredibly convenient. Once you're in Edinburgh, the Christmas market is largely walkable from most central accommodations. Public transport within the city is excellent, with buses being a primary mode of getting around. However, be prepared for potential diversions and increased travel times due to crowds and road closures around the market area during peak times. Check the official Edinburgh Christmas Market website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours, specific events, and any changes to the layout or attractions for the year you plan to visit. In 2019, they provided a comprehensive guide, and it's always best to rely on official sources. Remember, the earlier you plan, the better your chances of securing good deals on travel and accommodation, and the less stress you'll have leading up to your magical festive getaway. The Edinburgh Christmas Market 2019 was a testament to the city's ability to create a truly enchanting holiday experience, and with a little planning, your visit can be just as memorable. Don't forget to factor in time for exploring the wider city – Edinburgh has so much more to offer beyond the market stalls!

A Lasting Impression of Edinburgh's Festive Magic

The Edinburgh Christmas Market 2019 left an indelible mark on all who experienced it. It wasn't just about the commercial aspect; it was about the atmosphere, the shared joy, and the creation of lasting memories. The sight of families laughing, couples strolling hand-in-hand, and friends catching up over a warm drink perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the season. The blend of traditional Scottish charm with European-style market traditions created a unique and captivating experience. The twinkling lights reflecting on the historic stone buildings, the aroma of festive foods filling the crisp night air, and the cheerful sounds of carols and laughter all contributed to an unforgettable sensory experience. For many, the market was the highlight of their winter visit to Edinburgh, a chance to escape the everyday and immerse themselves in pure, unadulterated festive magic. The dedication of the organizers in 2019 to create such a vibrant and well-run event was evident, ensuring that every visitor felt the warmth and wonder of Christmas. Whether you were searching for that perfect, unique gift, indulging in seasonal treats, or simply soaking up the joyous ambiance, the Edinburgh Christmas Market 2019 delivered an experience that resonated long after the stalls were packed away. It cemented Edinburgh's reputation as a premier destination for holiday celebrations, proving that the city knows how to put on a spectacular show. The magic of Edinburgh at Christmas is something truly special, and the market is its beating, festive heart, drawing people from all corners of the globe to share in its enchanting embrace.