The independent crafts markets you should shop at this Christmas
From energetic city centres to grand castle halls, Scotland’s 2026 Christmas markets are back and better than ever.
Whether you are taking a break from festive shopping or hunting for last minute stocking fillers, there’s something for everyone with shopping stalls, fairgrounds, and even reindeer parades.
For those looking to brighten the dark nights and capture the season’s magic, we have created a list of 10 markets that are worth wrapping up for.
Trading Post at Custom Lane and Brown’s of Leith
When: Sunday 6th December
Where: 1 Customs Wharf, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6AL
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This is a Christmas market built on true craft. On Sunday 6th December, Trading Post will bring together nearly 30 independent makers, bakers, brewers and producers, each chosen for the craft and design behind their work (most of them working within a few miles of Leith).
Two buildings, one afternoon. For the first time, Trading Post runs across two neighbouring buildings on Leith’s waterfront: makers at Custom Lane, and food, drink and a DJ at Brown’s of Leith on The Shore.
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CLAY Festival of Ceramics at Hospitalifield
When: Saturday 5th to Sunday 6th December
Where: Hospitalfield House, Arbroath
A festival of ceramics will offer the perfect chance to get your hands on some last minute unique gifts. Hospitalfield will host CLAY, with over 100 sculptures that have been created by a community of dog walkers this December. Here shoppers can browse a massive selection of crafted items directly from skilled artists, potters, ceramicists and makers.
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Exclusively Highlands Christmas Market at Crossbasket Castle
When: Tuesday 1st to Thursday 3rd December
Where: Crossbasket Castle, above the River Calder
Discover a festive feast of Scottish creativity at the Exclusively Highlands Christmas Markets, hosted within the beautiful Crossbasket Castle.
Set in the castle’s festively decorated ballroom and library, the indoor market brings together talented artisan makers offering an eclectic collection of handcrafted gifts, Scottish art, jewellery, ceramics, textiles, home fragrances, skincare, food and drink.
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Edinburgh Christmas Market
When: Saturday 14th November to Sunday 3rd January
Where: East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh city centre
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument, this is one of the UK’s most picturesque winter festivals.
Expect traditional wooden chalets, fun rides like the Around the World Starflyer and the LNER Big Wheel, Santa appearances and a packed programme of live music and family performances.
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Aberdeen Christmas Village
When: Thursday 12th to Sunday 3rd January
Where: Broad Street and Marischal Square, Aberdeen
Whether you’re planning a family day out, catching up with friends, or searching for handmade gifts, Scotland’s longest Christmas market gives you plenty of chances to join in the festive fun.
Visitors can look forward to a spectacular open-air ice rink, alongside fairground rides, including the brand-new FreakOut and returning favourites such as the Helter Skelter, Bavarian Fun House, Avalanche, and Twister.
The Christmas Village will also be serving up a huge range of festive flavours, while crafters flog their one-of-a-kind pieces.
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Exclusively Highlands Christmas Fairs at Eden Court
When: Friday 20th to Sunday 22nd November | Friday 27th to Sunday 29th November
Where: Eden Court, Inverness
If you are looking for special gifts or treats for yourself, this indoor celebration of Scottish makers with roughly 80 exhibitors has plenty to offer. Expect woodwork, ceramics, textiles, jewellery and artisan food, as well as chocolates, spirits, organic skincare and candles.
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Jupiter Artland
When: Friday 11th to Sunday 13th December | Friday 18th to Sunday 20th December
Where: Bonnington House Steadings, Wilkieston, Edinburgh EH27 8BY
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Christmas is landing at Jupiter Artland next month and is promising family fun with a live Nativity, charming stalls and delicious seasonal food.
Visitors can hunt for treasures and artisan gifts at busy market stalls or pop by Santa’s Grotto. Elves will also be opening their workshops for those who want to get hands on and help spread festive cheer.
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The Larder Alpine Village in Kinross
When: Friday 13th November to Thursday 24th December
Where: Loch Leven’s Larder, Channel Farm, Kinross KY13 9HD
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Step into The Larder Alpine Village and enjoy a seasonal, mountain-themed festive experience hosted at a popular family-run farm shop, deli and cafe overlooking Loch Leven.
Relax beneath the outdoor canopy, where you can book a cosy cabin or a seat at one the sharing tables for a festive feast. You can also expect to enjoy a delicious selection of Alpine-inspired dishes, warm drinks, festive bakes and seasonal treats.
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Balgove Larder in St Andrews
When: Tuesday 1st December
Where: Balgove Larder, Strathtyrum Farm, Strathtyrum, St Andrews KY16 9SF
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The Balgove Larder Christmas Night Market is returning for its twelfth year, inviting visitors to enjoy an evening of festive shopping, seasonal food and drink, independent makers and live music.
The market brings together a curated selection of Scottish artisans who will be selling handcrafted gifts, delicious treats and vintage finds from The Car Boot.
A children’s Christmas card making workshop will also be taking place, alongside a Q&A session with chefs about the Christmas table, and a guest cooking demonstration with Karma Curry.
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A Merry Wee Market at Forgan’s in St Andrews
When: Friday 4th December
Where: 110 Market Street, St. Andrews KY16 9PB
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Enjoy Christmas tunes with a mulled wine in your hand at A Merry Wee Market to capture some seasonal magic.
Santa’s elves will be keeping the family fun going in the venue’s private bothies, along with face painting and festive stalls.
Make the most of your day by staying for dinner after the market, especially since kids eat free with every paying adult main meal.
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