Jingle & Joy: Christmas Events in Scotland Guide 2025
October 30, 2025
With its unique festive atmosphere, stunning winter scenery, and sparkling holiday lights, Scotland is the perfect destination for a seasonal escape. From local winter festivals to bustling Christmas markets, there’s a wide range of events and celebrations to help you revel in the magic of the season.
For those seeking a cosy ambience and wintry landscapes, Loch Lomond is the ideal gateway to the Scottish Highlands, offering a tranquil retreat in which to explore the great outdoors or enjoy a day out adventuring in nearby cities such as Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Whether your ideal festive season involves unwinding with an indulgent spa break or exploring breathtaking countryside, this guide spotlights Scotland’s most magical Christmas events—from our very own celebrations here at Cameron House Resort to popular attractions in the Scottish capital and beyond.
2025 Christmas Events in Scotland
Loch Lomond Shores Christmas Festival
Dates: 6th and 7th December, 2025
Location: Loch Lomond Shores
Get ready for plenty of festive fun as the Loch Lomond Shores Christmas Festival returns in 2025, complete with free entry and a jam-packed schedule of exciting events.
Expect a lively market filled with local crafts and delicious treats, a Santa’s grotto at the SEA LIFE Centre, live performances from talented choirs and musicians, exciting rides for children, and lots of beautiful decorations illuminated by twinkling lights for those perfect selfies.
For further details, visit the Loch Lomond Shores website.
Celtic Warrior Cruise with Cameron House Resort
Dates: 23rd December 2025 – 3rd January 2026
Location: The Marina, Cameron House Resort, Loch Lomond
Experience the festive season on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond with a cruise aboard the Celtic Warrior. Sip champagne as you sail past Loch Lomond’s islands, including Inchmurrin, discovering hidden coves and breathtaking scenery along the way. Each cruise lasts one hour and costs £55 per adult and £30 for children. Under 3s go free.
See our Champagne Cruise page for full booking information.
Toy Making Workshop with Cameron House Resort
Dates: 23rd December 2025 – 3rd January 2026
Location: Loch Fyne Suite, Cameron House Resort, Loch Lomond
Children can become toymaking elves for a day at our fun, festive workshop. This hands-on experience is perfect for families and creative minds alike, giving children the chance to discover the secrets of Christmas toymaking before taking the official Elf Code of Conduct oath.
Under the guidance of Santa’s helpers, they’ll then learn how to craft their own unique toys, complete with juice and sweets.
View our full Christmas events itinerary at Cameron House.
Edinburgh’s Christmas Market and Winter Festival
Dates: 15th November – 4th January, 2026
Locations: Princes Street Gardens, George Street, Castle Street, and St Andrew Square, Edinburgh
From spectacular live events to thrilling funfair rides, Edinburgh’s annual Christmas extravaganza is the ultimate way to enjoy the season. Enjoy jaw-dropping panoramic views of the city from the Big Wheel or Star Flyer, sample a mulled wine or cider from a food and drink stall or kickstart your Christmas shopping by browsing market wares.
The iconic event even has its very own ice skating rink on George Street complete with two bars: the Polar Ice bar completely made from crystal clear ice or The Coorie Inn with plush seating and outdoor heaters.
Discover the full itinerary on the Edinburgh Winter Festival website.
The Irn-Bru Carnival
Dates: 19th December 2025 – 11th January 2026
Location: SEC, Glasgow
Europe’s largest indoor fun fair, The Irn-Bru Carnival offers a fun-filled day out for all the family at the SEC Exhibition Centre, Glasgow.
Visitors can enjoy thrill rides like the Star Fighter and Extreme Ice Blast, family-friendly options such as the Frozen Family Coaster and Bavarian Fun House, and classic stalls like hook-a-duck. The carnival also features themed days, live music, and special sessions.
For further information, visit the Irn-Bru Carnival website.
Storytime With Mrs Claus
Dates: 24th December 2025
Location: Loch Katrine Suite, Cameron House Resort, Loch Lomond
Create a magical memory for the little ones at Cameron House Resort with a special Christmas tales session led by Mrs.Claus.
Gather around in the cosy Loch Katrine Suite as she brings enchanting holiday stories to life, captivating children with her warm voice and festive spirit.
View our full Christmas events itinerary at Cameron House.
Helensburgh Winter Festival
Dates: 29th and 30th November 2025
Location: Colquhoun Square, Helensburgh
Helensburgh’s Winter Festival offers a charming, community-driven celebration. The high street comes alive with artisan market stalls, a colourful Christmas parade, and local choirs singing festive favourites. Families can enjoy fairground rides, Santa’s grotto, and plenty of warming food stalls serving hot chocolate and hearty winter fare.
For further information, visit the Helensburgh Winter Festival site.
Pamper & Prosecco Day at Cameron Spa
Dates: 24th, 27th and 31st December 2025
Location: Cameron Spa, Cameron House Resort, Loch Lomond
Indulge in pure relaxation with the Pamper & Prosecco Day at Cameron Spa, an ideal treat for anyone looking to unwind in style. Enjoy a choice of a 25-minute express facial or a 25-minute file and polish, paired with a glass of prosecco, at our award-winning facilities located at Cameron Club, just three miles from Cameron House Hotel.
View our full Christmas events itinerary at Cameron House.
Falconry Display at Cameron House Resort
Dates: 26th December 2025 and 1st January 2026
Location: Cameron House Hotel, Loch Lomond
Experience the thrill of a bird of prey show on the front lawn of the Cameron House Hotel. Get up close to these magnificent birds and watch them soar in a captivating flying demonstration. Set against the stunning backdrop of Loch Lomond, this unforgettable experience is perfect for nature lovers of all ages.
Explore our full Christmas events itinerary at Cameron House.
Christmas Day Dining at Cameron House Resort
Dates: 25th December 2025
Location: Cameron House Resort, Loch Lomond
Celebrate the festive season in unforgettable style with a selection of unique Christmas dining experiences at Cameron House. Whether you’re gathering with family, friends, or loved ones, each of our restaurants offers something special this season:
- The Clubhouse: Celebrate with the whole family over a glass of fizz, a festive three-course meal, and live entertainment including a magician, caricaturist, balloon modeller, and saxophonist.
- Cameron Grill: Enjoy a pre-lunch drink and amuse-bouche in the Great Scots’ Bar before indulging in an elegant three-course menu featuring seasonal dishes like roast venison and Black Forest gateau.
- La Vista: Relax in a warm setting with welcome drinks, canapés, and a delicious three-course meal, ending with tea, coffee, and indulgent truffles.
- Loch Lomond Suite: Start with champagne and table-ready starters, then enjoy a traditional roast turkey main, dessert, and petit fours, all with live entertainment and music throughout the day.
Discover our full Christmas events itinerary at Cameron House.
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay
Dates: 29th December – 1st January 2026
Location: Princes Street, Edinburgh
One of the world’s most legendary New Year celebrations, this four-day extravaganza features the iconic torchlight procession, a massive street party with live concerts on Princes Street and in the Gardens, traditional Céilidh dancing, and the midnight fireworks launched from Edinburgh Castle. At the stroke of midnight, join in the global chorus singing “Auld Lang Syne”
For a truly Scottish start to the year, don’t miss the Loony Dook on New Year’s Day—a brisk, fancy-dress plunge into the Firth of Forth held every year in South Queensferry.
Discover the full itinerary on the Edinburgh Hogmanay website.
Hogmanay On The Loch
Dates: 31st December 2025
Location: La Vista, Cameron House Resort, Loch Lomond
Ring in the New Year lochside with an unforgettable Hogmanay at Cameron House Resort. Begin with a champagne reception, followed by a delicious three-course set menu, accompanied by tea, coffee, and petit fours. As you dine, a magician will entertain the children.
Enjoy live music throughout the night, creating the perfect atmosphere for a memorable celebration. At midnight, a sole piper will herald the moment as you enjoy a late-night snack and watch fireworks light up the sky over the Wee Demon golf course.
View our full Christmas events itinerary at Cameron House.
New Year’s Day Brunch
Dates: 1st January 2026
Location: Loch Lomond Suite, Cameron House Resort, Loch Lomond
After your Hogmanay celebrations, ease into the New Year with a delightful brunch in the comfort of the Loch Lomond Suite. Savour a sumptuous feast with your loved ones, accompanied by the smooth sounds of a live band – creating the perfect ambience to start the year.
View our full Christmas events itinerary at Cameron House.
Beyond the Festivals
Craving more adventures and unforgettable experiences on your trip to Loch Lomond? When you stay with us at Cameron House, you can embark on thrilling adventures both on the loch and across the land.
Loch Lomond offers a variety of fun family activities. Try your hand at clay-pigeon shooting, pony trekking, mountain biking, and more. Spend a day on the water with speedboats, kayaking, paddle boarding, and more for a memorable experience in the Scottish countryside.
Whatever you have in mind for your trip to Loch Lomond, we’ll take care of all the little details to perfect your luxury stay. Find out more about our rooms, the Cameron Spa, our two golf courses, and our resort restaurants and bars, and book your trip now.