About Aberdeen Christmas Market
Aberdeen’s city centre sparkles with festive cheer this winter. From 12 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, the Granite City is the place to enjoy the season with family and friends, from thrill rides and local makers to parades, carols and a nativity scene.
What to Expect
Aberdeen Christmas Village (Broad Street):
The Christmas Village returns with a major thrill ride, The Freak Out, back after its hugely popular visit three years ago. There are also extra market stalls and a new food vendor this year. It’s open daily except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Entry is free, with charges for rides and attractions.
Curated in the Square Christmas Market (Marischal Square):
Local makers, artists and food producers gather every weekend from Friday 13 November, with extended hours from Monday 21 to Wednesday 23 December. All in support of Charlie House.
Festive Highlights to Watch For:
- Aberdeen Christmas Parade and All Life Chances Santa Run (Sunday 15 November): starts at Albyn Place, down Union Street and finishes at Castlegate
- Nativity Scene at Union Terrace Gardens (30 November to 4 January): blessing event on 30 November at 10:30am
- Carol Concerts at the David Welch Winter Gardens (Saturday 12 December)
Image credit: @jheasman_photography / Instagram
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Frequently asked questions
- When is the Aberdeen Christmas Village on?
From Thursday 12 November 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027.
- Where is the Aberdeen Christmas Village?
On Broad Street in Aberdeen city centre.
- Is entry to the Christmas Village free?
Yes. Entry is free and no ticket is needed. Charges apply for rides, attractions and activities inside the Village.
- What days of the week is the village open?
It’s open daily except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
- When is Curated in the Square open?
Weekends from Friday 13 November, with extended hours from Monday 21 to Wednesday 23 December.
- When is the Aberdeen Christmas Parade?
Sunday 15 November 2026. It runs from Albyn Place down Union Street to Castlegate, alongside the All Life Chances Santa Run.
- When can I see the Nativity Scene?
At Union Terrace Gardens from 30 November to 4 January.
- When are the Carol Concerts?
Saturday 12 December 2026 at the David Welch Winter Gardens.