What’s on in December

As the days shorten and the festive spirit fills the air, the South of Scotland transforms into a winter wonderland. There’s an an abundance of activities to enjoy in the cold, crisp air. Make a festive wreath to adorn your front door; take the kids to see Santa in magical locations; and don’t miss the festive lights in the region’s towns and villages.

Here are some of the highlights to ensure your winter getaway is unforgettable. And do check out all the other events this month, too!

Festive Preparations Begin

Caledonia Park kicks off the season with late-night shopping on multiple dates this month. Visitors can stroll through the decorated shops and browse gift ideas or enjoy the festive music and entertainment. Santa also makes an appearance! Children can visit him and his Winter Wonder Elves in his Grotto.

Innerleithen also welcomes winter as Traquair House opens its doors for a weekend of music, handmade gifts and festive cheer at their annual Christmas Opening from 29th to 30th November. All will be merry and bright: With roaring fires, carols in the chapel, decor from the estate, and stalls set up throughout the rooms.

Crafting takes the spotlight in Innerleithen with the Scandi Sisters Nordic Christmas workshops on 29th November. Head along and create your own decorations inspired by Scandinavian folklore. In Hawick, the Borders Textile Towerhouse fills with local makers for its Christmas Market on the same date. It is the ideal place to find something made with care.

Then on 6th December, Demijohn hosts their annual Christmas food and drink event. Head along to Glenlair Steading for delicious mulled drinks, mince pies and carols. The famous Demijohn Cocktail Bar will also be mixing up seasonal drinks using their unique range of tipples.

A Moment of Winter Calm

With lots on in December, the South of Scotland is also the perfect destination for escaping it all. In Melrose, Cedar Hus are hosting their Full Moon Sauna. This special session on 4th December provides a peaceful break. Guests unwind in a quiet, 90-minute session that feels restorative under the soft winter sky.

Make the most of the region’s natural splendour with Look Up! Stars, Comets and Meteor Showers at Barwhillanty Estate on 17th December. The Walled Garden becomes a quiet space for guided stargazing and stories about the night sky.

Those looking for more ways to unwind this season, check out our dedicated blog on relaxing and indulgent breaks in the South of Scotland.

Santa Season Across the South of Scotland

The first weekend of December signals the start of Santa season. Thornhill adds to the festive spirit with the Drumlanrig Christmas Market on 6th and 7th December, where the heated marquee fills with handmade gifts and seasonal aromas. That same night, Drumlanrig Castle hosts an elegant guided evening tour with canapés and fizz.

Families gather for Breakfast with Santa from 5th December and the Castle Tearoom fills with excited chatter and festive treats on offer. Santa’s Grotto is also open for pre-booked visits and storytelling for younger visitors.

Bowhill House in Selkirk joins the celebrations as the Victorian Kitchen transforms into Santa’s cosy grotto. Craft workshops run throughout the month and kids will enjoy a warm welcome at every visit. Abbotsford near Melrose also spreads festive magic at their Breakfast with Santa as well as Storytelling with Mrs Claus for younger visitors at Ochiltree’s Café.

Langholm marks the turning of the season with its Christmas Lights Switch On on 6th December. Families gather at the Buccleuch Centre before the town bursts into colour.

Music and Festive Performances

December brings some of the year’s most memorable shows. Newton Stewart sets the tone with a lively night from Jam Pact on 5th December, followed later in the month by Astoria, whose Christmas party sets always draw an enthusiastic crowd.

Dumfries hosts two standout evenings in Loreburn Hall. The Scottish Pink Floyd perform a powerful celebration of Wish You Were Here on 6th December. A week later on 13th December, Bublé by Candlelight returns with smooth vocals, soft lighting and classic festive favourites.

Mac Arts in Galashiels is a hub for seasonal entertainment. Mitch Benn brings a rich and intimate performance of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to the venue on 15th December. Baga Chipz follows with humour and sparkle on the 19th, while the Bay City Rollers invite the audience to relive the carefree sound of the 70s on the 20th. PorkPie then close the month with energetic Ska rhythms that fill the hall on 27th December.

On the 20th of the month, Hawick enjoys one of December’s musical highlights as Skerryvore return to the Town Hall with their high-energy folk-rock.

Looking for some festive music to mark season? Barwhillanty House hosts a Christmas Opera evening on the 13th. Make sure to don your Christmas sparkles! Guests gather in the grand drawing room to enjoy arias, carols and a festive atmosphere; complimentary mulled wine and mince pies included. Then on the 22nd of December, Barwhillanty invites everyone to join members of the local SongWave Choir for festive Carols in the Walled Garden.

On the 21st of the month, Gretna Green adds theatrical sparkle with its enchanting performance of The Snow Queen, perfect for families looking for a traditional Christmas outing.

Between Christmas and New Year

Take time out in the days after Christmas. Head out into nature for a refreshing winter walk. Don’t want to head out alone? On the 28th, the Winter Walk with the Tweed Valley Blogger offers a chance to stretch the legs, breathe fresh air and enjoy the quiet beauty of the season.

Hogmanay Across the Region

Hogmanay is celebrated with warmth and joy across the South. Dumfries welcomes families to its friendly Hogmanay Hoolie in the Hall.

Over in Melrose, the lively Hogmanay Family Ceilidh at the Corn Exchange with upbeat music from Jiggit offers a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. Nearby Galashiels closes the year at MacArts with a major celebration featuring Deacon Blues, Simple Minded and support from Jenny Biddle. The hall is filled with excitement as the countdown to 2026 begins.