St James Quarter begin their Christmas programme today

On Saturday the lights were officially switched on a St James Quarter where there is to be a programme of festive magic between now and Christmas.

The Galleria was a celebration of music, dance and performance with ballerinas, dancers and the Quarter’s very stylish Santa.

A parade processed through the shops to herald the arrival of the man of the moment who had arrived in a cab inviting everyone he met on the way to join him at the Quarter.

The Tinderbox Orchestra with rappers, singers, strings, brass and drums performed before the countdown to the big switch on.

On 16 November and 7 December Elf Adventures will be back at the Santa Express on Level 3 where Santa’s little helpers can enjoy drop in sessions including Elf School for ages 3+ when there is an elf agility course, Reindeer Food Making and Storytime sessions with Santa’s elves for babies and toddlers. Children must be accompanied by an adult and there is no need to book.

On 30 November the Tinderbox Orchestra will be back for a day of interactive workshops between 10.30am and 6pm. This is a ticketed event bookable on the St James Quarter app. Everyone can try an instrument and play with the 20 piece orchestra.

The Santa Express will offer a photo opportunity on Level 3 and visitors can make donations at the Present Tree to benefit the St James Quarter charity partner Children First.

All the way from now until Christmas there will be pop up choir and dance performances and the bars and restaurants will be open late with some shops offering extended shopping hours.

Susan Hewlett, Brand Director at St James Quarter, said: “Christmas at St James Quarter is always something special, and this year we’re pulling out all the stops to make it our most magical celebration yet. From the dazzling parade and spectacular light switch-on to the creative energy of the Tinderbox Orchestra and the joyful return of Elf Adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

“We can’t wait to welcome Edinburgh’s residents and visitors to experience the wonder, warmth and togetherness that makes this time of year so special in the heart of the city.”

Whether singing under the lights, dancing to the beat of the Tinderbox Orchestra, or watching little ones graduate from Elf School, St James Quarter is set to be Edinburgh’s ultimate destination for Christmas magic in 2025.

For more information, please visit: https://stjamesquarter.com/event/st-james-quarter-sessions/