Your ultimate guide to Christmas magic in Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire
11 November 2024
This blog was updated on 11 November, 2024
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and to celebrate, we’ve curated a list of festive experiences to make 2024 a special one. From classic activities such as pantomimes, meeting Santa, and Christmas markets to delicious dining inspiration, we’ve got you covered.
Explore Aberdeen Christmas Village
With an array of festive fun, including a new light trail, the Aberdeen Christmas Village-delivered by Codona’s, Aberdeen City Council and Aberdeen Inspired-is not one to be missed. Featuring fairground rides, an outdoor ice-skating rink, and delicious festive food and drink, Aberdeen’s Christmas Village offers something for everyone.
Enjoy some festive crafting
There’s a whole host of events perfect for bringing out your creative side. From creating your very own handmade wreath with Oddbunch Flowers at Barra Castle to learning how to make Botanical Gift Wrap for the upcoming gift season.
Meet Santa
Are your little ones desperate to meet Santa? Step into the magic of Christmas at Banff Castle and meet Santa in his cosy Magical Room, hop-on the Santa train at Milton of Crathes, enjoy a fun-filled breakfast with Santa at Dobbies or indulge in afternoon tea with Santa at Pittodrie House. There’s plenty of opportunities to meet Santa and his elves across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire this year.
Christmas Markets
No festive season is complete without a visit to a Christmas Market, and Curated in the Quad Christmas Market offers a delightful mix of local gifts and goodies. From Little Brown Dog distillery, which crafts exceptional spirits with precision and transparency, to 13-23 Jewellery, offering a range of beautifully designed jewellery using seaglass from Aberdeen beach. For food lovers, there will be a selection of sweet and savoury delicacies to feast your eyes on, including Sweet Toots Cakery and The Damn Fine Cheese Company. The Curated in the Quad Christmas Market will be open every Friday to Sunday from November 15 to December 22.
Attend a Christmas concert
Who doesn’t love a Christmas singalong? Aberdeenshire’s range of festive music performances is perfect for creating a little Christmas cheer with your family. Why not check out Christmas By Candlelight at The Beach Ballroom, make your lunch break festive with a trip to Cowdray Hall and listen to the Granite City Brass, or head along to the Charlie House Christmas Concert.
Take a visit to the theatre
What better Christmas activity than a trip to the theatre for a pantomime With laugh-out-loud comedy and stunning musical performances, it’s an activity suited for families of all ages. This year’s line-up of productions does not disappoint, including Fairytale of New York at the Music Hall, Cinderella at the Culter Village Hall, and Elf The Musical at P&J Live.
Pictured: P&J Live
Experience some tantalising cuisine
You will be spoiled for choice as the ultimate festive feast awaits you across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. From locally reared turkey and all the trimmings to cheese boards and Christmas pudding, the region’s festive menus are sure to tickle your taste buds. With a host of venues offering Christmas treats, including No.10 Bar and Restaurant, The Esslemont, and Banchory Lodge, you won’t be disappointed.
Indulge in a festive tipple or two
Whether you’re after a cosy country pub with family or looking to party into the small hours, the North-east has you covered with plenty of venues. Why not opt for the intimate and ambient atmosphere of The Tippling House, sipping on perfectly curated cocktails, or visit Common Sense Coffee House and Bar, and join them for festive tapas and Christmas wines on December 4. If you’re looking for a party to kick off the festivities, grab tickets to one of the Barra Castle Winter Balls, hosted throughout December.
Pictured: The Tippling House
Treat yourself to a festive stay
Turn your festive day or evening into a trip to remember with a stay at one of our many welcoming accommodation options across the region. Whether it’s the traditional styling of the delightful riverside Boat Inn, located in the heart of Royal Deeside—where guests can relax in comfort by a log fire—or a quirky and unique experience like Glen Dye Cabins or Braemar Cabins, the region does not disappoint Want something in the city? With hotels aplenty, including The Sandman Signature Hotel and The Chester Hotel, you’ll wake up feeling refreshed and ready for day two.
The North-east of Scotland truly has something for everyone this festive season. For more ideas and inspiration, check out VisitAberdeenshire’s What’s On page.