Make magical family memories at Christmas at the Botanics 2024

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This Christmas, why not give your family the most precious gift of all? Time together.

At Christmas at the Botanics you’re invited to share in an enchanting experience that will bring all generations closer, from grandparents to grandchildren.

The magical outdoor trail is back for an eighth year at Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, running 35 nights over six weeks, from November 21 to December 30.

Visitors are encouraged to book in advance to guarantee their preferred time slot. Off-peak tickets at lower prices are available for selected evenings.

BOOK NOW: For all tickets, information, pricing and timings - CLICK HERE.

Christmas Cathedral lighting up family memories at Christmas At The BotanicsChristmas Cathedral lighting up family memories at Christmas At The Botanics
Christmas Cathedral lighting up family memories at Christmas At The Botanics | Phil Wilkinson

Imagine a festive evening where each turn along the illuminated trail is filled with wide-eyed wonder, joyful laughter, and the warmth of knowing you’re creating memories that will last a lifetime.

There’s something truly special about this time of year, but it’s not just about gifts under the tree.

It’s about the moments shared, the traditions created, and the memories that will stay forever.

This Christmas, be part of something magical, something that brings people together—because after all, the greatest gift you can give your loved ones is the gift of connection.

At Christmas at the Botanics, your family can look forward to a stunning, illuminated trail through the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. The magic unfolds as you walk past dazzling light tunnels, sparkling trees, and shimmering reflections on the water. This year’s highlights include a new spellbinding installation confirmed called Candles - transporting visitors to the world of witchcraft and wizardry as it evokes the magic of Hogwarts’ Great Hall.

Floating Candles will evoke the magic of Hogwarts’ Great Hall. Designed by French creative studio Pitaya.Floating Candles will evoke the magic of Hogwarts’ Great Hall. Designed by French creative studio Pitaya.
Floating Candles will evoke the magic of Hogwarts’ Great Hall. Designed by French creative studio Pitaya. | Oliver Dixon for Raymond Gubbay

Designed by Pitaya, a French creative studio, it features candles which will drift over visitors as they flicker and cast their undulating light to create a warm and festive atmosphere.

It is one of array of new installations that have been custom-designed especially for the Botanics by a selection of international and UK-based artists. 

One Small Thing projects a combination of wildlife imagery and winter foliage with impactful environmental messaging onto a pathway for visitors to interact with as they walk past.

Created by Newcastle based Novak, it incorporates the Garden’s mission to protect the planet's biodiversity by encouraging visitors to do one small thing and make space for nature.

One Small Thing projects wildlife imagery and winter foliage with impactful environmental messaging onto a pathway for visitors to interact with.One Small Thing projects wildlife imagery and winter foliage with impactful environmental messaging onto a pathway for visitors to interact with.
One Small Thing projects wildlife imagery and winter foliage with impactful environmental messaging onto a pathway for visitors to interact with. | Geraint Lewis

Firework Trees, created by Brighton’s award-winning Ithaca Studio, it will shower shoots of light through tree branches, bringing them to life with vibrant bursts of colour that bounce from branch to branch.

All the new and returning installations along the one-mile illuminated trail are low in energy and have been selected to complement the Botanics’ environment.

Returning crowd-pleasers will include the Christmas Cathedral, a tunnel inspired by arched church windows and illuminated by 100,000 LED fairy lights, that will leave the whole family in awe.

Created by Australian lighting designers Mandylights, It's the perfect spot for a family photo that will capture the magic of the moment and has become an Instagram fan-favourite for festive proposals.

Returning crowd-pleasers include Christmas Cathedral.Returning crowd-pleasers include Christmas Cathedral.
Returning crowd-pleasers include Christmas Cathedral. | Phil Wilkinson for Raymond Gubbay

The mesmerising Fire Garden is another traditional captivating sight where glowing lanterns and flickering flames transform the night into a display of warmth and light.

Santa himself also makes an appearance on the trail.

These are just a few of the many sights that will transport families into a world of wonder, perfect for all generations to experience together. Whether it’s the little ones gazing up at the lights in awe or older family members enjoying the serene beauty of the garden, there’s something for everyone.

The beauty of Christmas at the Botanics lies not just in its incredible light displays, but in the opportunity it gives us to slow down and appreciate the people we cherish most. In a world that often moves too quickly, take a moment to reconnect with your family in this winter wonderland filled with Hogwarts-style magic and holiday spirit.

Firework Trees, by ITHACA Studio.Firework Trees, by ITHACA Studio.
Firework Trees, by ITHACA Studio. | Rikard Osterlund for Raymond Gubbay

Whether you’re starting a new family tradition or continuing an old one, let this year be about more than just decorations and presents. Let it be about the smiles, the laughter, and the magic you create together. Christmas at the Botanics promises an unforgettable experience where love, joy, and togetherness light up the night—just like the beautiful displays that line the gardens.

This Christmas, give your family the gift of time spent together. Book your tickets now and ensure you don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind festive experience o make this holiday season the most memorable one yet, with memories to treasure for years to come.

Get your tickets now at Christmas at the Botanics and start creating magical moments that will be cherished for generations.

The trail attracted more than 95,000 people last year and visitors are encouraged to book in advance to guarantee their preferred time slot - click here.

Christmas at the Botanics is one of 14 illuminated trails staged across the UK by leading events promoter RG Live, a division of Sony Music. Christmas at the Botanics is presented in partnership with the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and creative producer Culture Creative. 

For more details visit www.rbge.org.uk/christmas and follow @mychristmastrails on Facebook and Instagram.

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