Join us for the return of the Teviot Christmas Light Switch-On

| Friday 6 November 2026 |

Teviot’s Christmas Light Switch-On returns for the first time since 2022! Join us for live music, real reindeer, festive food and drinks, and a Christmas countdown led by Santa and his elves.

Whether you’ve celebrated here before or are joining us for the first time, we’d love to welcome you.

Food and drink

Come along early for something to eat or drink. Union Social, the Library Bar, Gallery Café and Baristo will be open throughout the day, with festive seasonal specials and mulled wine also available across our food and drink outlets.

In Bristo Square, you’ll find food traders including On the Roll, serving authentic Bratwurst imported directly from Germany, with homemade toppings and traditional condiments.

Après Ski Social opens

We’ll also be celebrating the official launch of Après Ski Social, our new Alpine-inspired bar in Union Social Garden.

Pop by to explore the special drinks offers, enjoy the music and try out your new winter meeting spot. Après Ski Social will be open throughout the winter for festive get-togethers and evenings with friends.

The evening’s programme

5pm–6pm | Edinburgh University Brass Band

Live music begins in Union Social Garden with a festive performance from the Brass Band.

From 6pm | Carols, reindeer and giveaways

Enjoy the carol singers, see the real reindeer and get into the Christmas spirit with Santa hat and candy cane giveaways.

6.30pm | Christmas covers from the Jazz Band

The Jazz Band takes over in the garden with Christmas favourites ahead of the countdown.

7pm | Christmas lights switch-on

Gather in Bristo Square as Santa and his elves switch on Teviot’s Christmas lights, joined by stilt performers and musicians for a parade-style celebration.

From 7.10pm | Keep celebrating

Stay for photographs with Santa, a DJ in Union Social Garden or Christmas karaoke inside Union Social.

Programme and timings may vary slightly on the day.

Description supplied by the event organiser.