Thursday June 4th 2026
Christmas Cathedral at Christmas at the Botanics
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
One decade since first illuminating Edinburgh’s festive calendar, Christmas at the Botanics returns this winter with a trail celebrating 10 years of festive light and sound at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.
From 19 November to 30 December, visitors will once again be invited to step into an immersive after-dark experience as the Garden is transformed by glowing installations, sparkling pathways and atmospheric soundscapes designed to enchant all ages.
Created especially for the landmark anniversary year, the 2026 trail will feature a series of brand-new illuminated installations alongside returning festive favourites. With artists around the world set to contribute this year, new installations confirmed include:
– Lumycena – making its world premiere, this installation depicts whimsical mushroom caps that gently cast their multi-coloured glow over visitors as they walk through the trail. Created by Pitaya.
– Light Sphere – taking to the water this year, the large glowing sphere will transform the Pond with an array of colours in a spectacle of geometric shapes. Created by Studio Vertigo.
– Peonies – these graceful flowers bring life to the dark winter sky, illuminated through an array of colour effects that gleam from the stem to the blossoming petals. Created by TILT.
Returning highlights will include the much-loved Fire Garden, and the twinkling Christmas Cathedral.
Following strong demand last year, accessible quiet sessions are also being brought back, offering a more relaxed experience for those seeking a sensory-friendly visit.
Since launching in 2016, Christmas at the Botanics has become one of Scotland’s best-loved festive events, welcoming people from across the country and beyond each winter. For many families, friends and visitors to Edinburgh, the trail has become a cherished annual tradition, with generations returning year after year to experience the wonder together.
Over the past 10 years, the event has welcomed more than 750,000 visitors supporting the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh’s internationally recognised work in plant science, conservation and education. This has included helping scientists identify 425 new plant species and supporting a variety of projects in 67 countries worldwide.
Professor Julia Knights, Regius Keeper of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, said:
“I am thrilled to welcome visitors to our special 10th anniversary of Christmas at the Botanics to create magical winter memories for everyone. Each ticket bought will support our vital work to save more plant species from extinction in Scotland and the world and offer more horticulture and learning opportunities for all.”
Watch a video below surrounding last years experience when Reporter Liam Eunson visited the trail to speak to organisers.
Tickets for Christmas at the Botanics are on sale now. With peak weekend and pre-Christmas dates expected to sell out quickly, visitors are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment.
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