Edinburgh's Christmas

Edinburgh seems to really get into Christmas. Starting towards the end of November (on American Thanksgiving this year), the City Centre is transformed into a Winter Wonderland. Princess Street Gardens become lined with stalls where you can purchase delicious Edinburgh foods, hot mulled wine, and Scottish treats and textiles. There are rides for the family and even a big ice rink. It's actually really neat and fun just to walk around and take in all the sights, sounds, and smells.

The Ice Rink

The Big Wheel, just in front of the Sir Walter Scott Monument

A totally old-school carousel
This sign cracks me up
Price's Giant Helterskelter

Middle of the stalls

Roasted Chestnut vendor
Fortune Teller
No Scottish event would be complete without a Whiskey vendor
Or Haggis....

Mulled Wine available here

The whole thing is really a lot of fun to walk around and take in--it is so quaint and festive. They pipe in Christmas music (of the Bing Crosby genre) throughout the whole area. And, it's especially beautiful (though cold) after sunset when all the bright lights are more vibrant.