November is Edinburgh’s prelude to winter. Highs hover near 9°C (48°F), and daylight fades early. The city’s rhythm slows, but festive lights and Christmas markets begin to glow. Diwali parades, St Andrew’s Day concerts, and the first mulled wine stalls signal the season’s approach. It’s a time for quiet walks, early holiday shopping, and savoring the city’s gentle transition from autumn to winter.
Pro tips for visiting Edinburgh in November
Book hotels early for late November—Christmas Market and St Andrew’s Day bring more visitors.
Visit the Christmas Market on weekdays for fewer crowds.
Enjoy Diwali celebrations and St Andrew’s Day concerts—many are free.
Pack for early sunsets and chilly, damp weather.
Take advantage of Black Friday sales for shopping deals.
Some attractions offer free entry around St Andrew’s Day.
Try mulled wine and festive treats at market stalls.
Use public transport for easy access to city center events.
What to eat in Edinburgh in November: Seasonal delicacies
1/3
Diwali food stalls (event night)
Edinburgh Diwali includes food stalls alongside performances in Princes Street Gardens. In November, it is a practical way to sample festival snacks without booking a restaurant. Dietary options vary, so ask before ordering, especially if you need halal or vegetarian food. Tip: eat before the fireworks peak, because queues build as evening crowds arrive.
Edinburgh’s winter festival market runs from mid-November, with stalls selling hot drinks and seasonal street food. In November, it suits short daylight and helps you stay warm while walking the city centre. Dietary options vary by vendor. Tip: visit on a weekday early in the season for shorter queues and easier table space.
During the Edinburgh Short Film Festival in November, plan a simple pre-screening meal or snack because sessions run in blocks and end late. It is a practical month for indoor evenings. Dietary options depend on venue. Tip: eat before you arrive, then use the interval for a hot drink, since nearby queues can be long in cold weather.
A film festival focused on short-form cinema, with screening blocks and Q&As. It runs November 6-14 at venues including Filmhouse and Summerhall. It suits the quieter tourist season and works well for evenings when it is dark early. Buy tickets in advance for weekend screenings and awards nights.
Edinburgh’s main winter festival with Christmas Market chalets, rides, and seasonal attractions across Princes Street Gardens, George Street, and St Andrew Square. It is expected November 13 to January 3. Crowds peak on weekends and evenings. Visit early in the season on a weekday if you want shorter lines and easier walking space.
A ticketed evening light trail through the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, with installations, music-synced lighting, and seasonal food stands. It is listed as running late November through December 30 (November 25-December 30, exact nights vary). Timed tickets often sell out. Choose an earlier evening slot for families or a later slot for fewer children.
A public Festival of Lights celebration with a parade along Princes Street, performances in Princes Street Gardens, and a short fireworks display that lights the Castle. Date is November 8, 2026. It is free and can draw large crowds. Arrive early for parade viewing and plan for slower city-centre movement during the evening programme.
A pre-Hogmanay ceilidh event listed for November 27, 2026 at The Counting House. It offers a lively dance night with a caller and classic Scottish dances, aimed at people who will not be in town for December 31. Tickets are required. Wear comfortable shoes and arrive early for space on the dance floor.
A free city-centre event on George Street marking the official switch-on of Christmas lights, listed for November 22, 2026 (TBC). Expect stage performances and a countdown at dusk. Arrive early for a good view. It can be crowded, so plan an exit route and meet-up point if you are with a group.
Scotland’s national day with city-centre programming such as music and dance events and possible special opening offers in the lead-up. Date is November 30, 2026. Activities can span the preceding weekend. Check official listings for confirmed events and any free-entry opportunities, and expect a small uplift in crowds around central venues.
Plan ahead: must-visit experiences for Bali in November
