Scottish Christmas Songbook returns to Edinburgh with star-studded line-up this December
The Scottish Christmas Songbook will return to Edinburgh this December, bringing together some of Scotland’s most loved folk musicians.
The Scottish Christmas Songbook will return to Edinburgh this December, bringing together some of Scotland’s most loved folk musicians for a festive celebration of music, friendship and collaboration.
The popular Christmas show will take to the stage at Queens Hall on Saturday, December 19, Sunday, December 20 and Tuesday, December 22.
It promises audiences a mix of uplifting festive favourites, traditional carols and fresh takes on Christmas classics.
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Originally fronted by musician Phil Cunningham, the Christmas Songbook has become one of Scotland’s best-loved festive musical gatherings.
Now entering it’s next chapter as the Scottish Christmas Songbook, the annual show will continue to celebrate the friendships and musical collaborations at the heart of the tradition.
The 2026 line-up includes acclaimed Scottish singers Eddi Reader and Karen Matheson, alongside renowned fiddle and whistle player John McCusker and Orcadian roots musician Kris Drever.
They will be joined by Irish accordionist Alan Kelly, guitarist Ian Carr and double bassist Kevin McGuire, with accompaniment from Scottish Christmas Songbook Brass Ensemble.
Together, the performers will deliver an evening of soaring vocals, rich melodies and playful storytelling, blending the feel-good atmosphere of a Christmas party with more nostalgic and heartwarming moments.
Karen Matheson said the show was one of her favourite parts of the year, describing the opportunity to tour with close friends and collaborators as an honour.
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She said: “2026 has been a particularly tough year for many so it’s really important to us that we’re able to share some seasonal spirit in musical form, extend a hand of friendship and lift others up this December.
“Come away in, leave the world outside for a wee while and let us bring some Christmas magic your way.”
John McCusker said the show had always been an “incredible collaborative effort”, with each performer bringing something different to the stage.
He said the 2026 performances would celebrate the “good pals, great tunes and generosity of spirit” that brought the musicians together.
John added: “The run of the Scottish Christmas Songbook nights in Edinburgh are sure to be merry and bright, and a bit like Santa and his sleigh, we can’t wait to hit the road this December!”