Last Christmas Covid restrictions meant that we couldn’t celebrate with our loved ones, but this December looks like being different – even if we may need a vaccine passport to enjoy the festivities.
With pubs, restaurants and attractions likely to be busier than ever, it’s worth booking early to ensure you don’t miss out.
So, with five weeks to go until the big day, here are 10 ideas for fun Christmas nights out in the Capital to suit all occasions.
Read more:
Edinburgh Christmas Market 2021: Start date, location, rides and more of this year’s Edinburgh Christmas event
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5. Get your skates on at Edinburgh's Christmas Market
Edinburgh's Christmas Market will launch on November 20, running until January 2. It's going to be bigger than ever this year, expanding from its unsual home in East Princes Street Gardens to West Princes Street Gardens and George Street between Castle Street and Charlotte Square. There will be market stalls selling tasty food, bars for a festive drink and a variety of rides to enjoy. Meanwhile, the 'Lidl On Ice' ice rink will let you strap on your skates and glide down George Street for the first time. Photo: Underbelly
6. See Edinburgh Castle in a whole new light
Edinburgh Castle will be transformed into the 'Castle of Light' most evenings between November 19 and January 9. Organisers promise "wonder, enchantment and a spectacle of colour...with stunning visuals, state of the art lighting installations and Rex, the famous red lion, back to guide you." If you want a real treat, book a table at the opulent Witchery restaurant nearby for a genuinely regal evening. Photo: Roll6
7. Take your sleigh to the drive-in
Scotland's largest outdoor movie screen will be arriving at Murrayfield Ice Rink on December 4 and 5 with be screening of the likes of Elf, Home Alone and Love Actually. Book a ticket and enjoy the Christmas classics from the comfort of your own car, with a range of snacks and drinks also available. Later on in the month, the Cameo cinema has a festive lineup including It's A Wonderful Life, Scrooged, The Nutcracker and Muppet Christmas Carol. Photo: The Drive-In Cinema
8. Have a 'ho ho ho' at the Monkey Barrel
Monkey Barrel Comedy, based on the Capital's Blair Street, are holding a number of special festive shows, featuring a selection of top comedians, every evening from December 20-23, then from December 27-31. Starting at 9pm, there's plenty of time to grab a drink and a bite to eat beforehand. If you are looking for standup comedy earlier in December they have shows on every night other than December 6. Photo: Canva/Getty Images