This year, Aberdeen Christmas Market takes place from Thursday November 14th until Tuesday December 31st 2025. Aberdeen Christmas Market is an annual event that takes place in the heart of Aberdeen. It is a festive extravaganza that brings together locals and tourists alike, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with the spirit of Christmas.
Location & Layout
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Broad Street: pedestrian-friendly stretch off Union Street, decked out with chalets, fairground rides, and an ice rink
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Marischal College Quad: ‘Curated in the Quad’ features around 45–60 stalls showcasing North-East Scottish crafts, food, jewelry, and gifts. Proceeds support and benefit Charlie House charity.
🎪 What to See & Do
1. Festive Market Stalls
Browse handcrafted décor, artisanal foods, and unique gifts. The Quad focuses on regional creators, ensuring a distinct Scottish flair
2. Rides & Ice Rink
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Ferris Wheel and thrill ride “The Twist” for a fun high-altitude view
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Open-air ice rink—a perfect date-night spot
3. Food & Drink
Dig into local fare like shortbread, haggis wraps, hot toddies, churros, pizzas and vegan treats. Drink stands offer mulled wine, hot cocoa, and winter ales
4. Entertainment & Events
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The city hosts a festive light-up trail, including candy cane lanes and illuminated installations
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Christmas Parade & Nativity events, plus weekend live music and carol concerts
5. Charity at Heart
Curated in the Quad is run in partnership with Charlie House, raising thousands (e.g. £24k+, £32k+) for children’s support
🏨 Where to Stay
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Union Square area: hotel + transport hub (rail/bus) with easy market access
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City centre B&Bs benefit from quieter winter rates – ideal for longer stays
🚆 Getting There & Around
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By train/bus: Broad Street is within walking distance from station and bus hub via Union Square
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Driving: city centre parking available, but public transport/ferry suggested
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Explore further: consider Spectra Festival (Feb ’25) and Hogmanay celebrations nearby
👍 Tips for Visitors
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Arrive early to avoid crowds and get best selection of stalls
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Dress warmly: November–December in Aberdeen can be cold and damp
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Check lost property: Codona’s manages it—email via info on signage
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Inclusive sessions available: sensory packs, quiet hours, and family-friendly facilities
🎯 Final Thoughts
Aberdeen’s 2025 Christmas Market strikes a perfect balance between traditional holiday charm and local flair. With unique crafts, family rides, music, food, and light trails, it’s a brilliant northern Scottish celebration. It’s a small but high-quality market that supports local artisans and charity—ideal for visitors who want something more authentic than larger, commercial markets.
Ready for a magical festive trip? Book your stay, pack your woollies, and prepare to experience Aberdeen’s yuletide sparkle!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Aberdeen Christmas Market 2025
1. When does the Aberdeen Christmas Market 2025 open and close?
The market kicks off on Thursday, 14 November 2025, and runs daily until 31 December 2025, with vendor stalls open Sunday–Thursday 12:00–20:00 and Friday–Saturday extended until 22:00
2. Where is the Christmas Market located?
The market is spread across Broad Street (main village with rides and food stalls) and the adjacent Marischal College Quadrangle (the “Curated in the Quad” artisan market).
3. Do I need a ticket or can I just walk in?
There’s no general admission ticket required. You can walk in free, and only pay per ride or rink session if you participate in those.
4. What family-friendly attractions are available?
Highlights include an outdoor ice rink, a Ferris wheel, carousel, bungy trampolines, and weekend children’s entertainment. Santa’s grotto is available Thurs–Sun until mid‑December.
5. Is the market wheelchair accessible and do they offer relaxed sessions?
Yes. The outdoor areas on Broad Street are fully wheelchair accessible. The organisers also provide inclusive relaxed-hour options, sensory packs, and family-friendly facilities.
6. Can I bring my dog to the market?
Dogs on leads are welcome in the outdoor sections on Broad Street, though the indoor artisan market in the quad may have restrictions — please check posted signage upon arrival.
7. Are vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free food options available?
Absolutely. Alongside traditional mulled wine and hot chocolate, you’ll find vegan pies, sugar-coated churros, plant-based hot dogs, and other dietary-friendly offerings.
8. How do I find lost property or ask general questions?
Lost property is managed by Codona’s. Contact them at sales@codonas.com; they monitor the inbox daily.
9. Is parking available nearby, or is public transport better?
Broad Street is very close to Union Square station, making public transport your best option. If driving, plan to park early—on-street and city-centre parking is available but limited.
10. How can I support local charities and makers?
Purchasing from the “Curated in the Quad” artisan market supports Charlie House charity. In 2024, the market raised over £32,000 for local causes.
