Find the top holiday events in East Kilbride! Our guide has all the must-see festive highlights. For longtime residents and new arrivals alike, our guide reveals the holiday spirit of East Kilbride.
This season, experience the enchanting atmosphere of Edinburgh's Christmas, which features a dazzling array of markets and attractions, perfect for family outings. Alternatively, the vibrant Glasgow Winterfest offers a stunning winter wonderland filled with festive lights and entertainment. And the iconic Edinburgh's Hogmanay is something you definitely don't want to miss, showcasing spectacular fireworks and lively celebrations. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around East Kilbride
- Edinburgh's Hogmanay (Edinburgh)
- Edinburgh's Christmas (Edinburgh)
- Castle of Light (Edinburgh)
- Glasgow Christmas Lights Switch On (Glasgow)
- Glasgow Winterfest (Glasgow)
- Glasgow Irn-Bru Carnival (Glasgow)
- Fairytale of New York (Glasgow)
- Christmas at New Lanark (New Lanark)
- The Nutcracker (Inverness)
- A Crackin' Christmas Carol
See these and even more events listed below!
East Kilbride Holiday Light Displays
Carluke Christmas Lights Switch On
What to Expect:
Family-friendly event with a Christmas Market and fairground rides.
Description:
Carluke's annual Christmas Lights Switch On features free festive entertainment, a Christmas Market, and fairground rides, culminating in the lights being switched on at 5pm. The event includes traditional brass bands, live music, and appearances by Santa and various festive characters.
Where: Carluke | More Info: Carluke Christmas Lights Switch On
Glasgow Christmas Lights Switch On
What to Expect:
Live music and pantomime preview with iconic City Chambers lighting show.
Description:
The Glasgow Christmas Lights Switch On is a family-friendly event marking the start of the city's winter festivities. Hosted by Clyde 1 presenters George Bowie and Cassi Gillespie, it features live music, sing-alongs, and a preview of the Pavilion Theatre's pantomime Beauty and the Beastie. The event culminates with the illumination of George Square and a stunning projection show on the City Chambers.
Where: Glasgow | More Info: Glasgow Christmas Lights Switch On
Starry Nights at Dean Castle Country Park
What to Expect:
Immersive lighting trail with festive lights and sound installations.
Description:
Starry Nights at Dean Castle Country Park features an immersive lighting trail with festive lights, lasers, and sound installations. Enjoy Cocktails and Carols, Santa's Grotto, and a variety of interactive exhibits including Singing Trees and Candy Cane Lane. The event also includes a festive food village and live performances by roving entertainers.
Where: Kilmarnock | More Info: Starry Nights at Dean Castle Country Park
Monteviot Lights
What to Expect:
Illuminated light trail through ancient gardens.
Description:
Monteviot Lights is a captivating winter light trail event held at Monteviot House and Gardens near Jedburgh. The enchanting light installations accentuate the natural beauty of the gardens, creating a stunning after-dark journey through the Scottish Borders' rolling landscape. Families can immerse themselves in an unforgettable atmosphere, making lifelong memories together.
Where: Jedburgh | More Info: Monteviot Lights
East Kilbride Holiday Markets and Shopping
Goulding's Garden Centre Christmas Shopping Event
What to Expect:
Free event with food tasting and discounts.
Description:
Join Goulding's Garden Centre for their annual Christmas Shopping Event, featuring a wide range of Christmas trees, decorations, gifts, and festive food. Enjoy food tasting from various suppliers and take advantage of 10% off everything in store (excluding food items). The restaurant is open throughout the event.
Where: East Kilbride | More Info: Goulding's Garden Centre Christmas Shopping Event
Valley View at Gouldings Christmas Market
What to Expect:
Local makers and craftspeople selling unique gifts and seasonal items.
Description:
Valley View at Gouldings Christmas Market offers a variety of stalls selling gifts and seasonal items, with a range of local makers and craftspeople showcasing their wares.
Where: East Kilbride | More Info: Valley View at Gouldings Christmas Market
Wylde Thistle's Winter Artisan Market
What to Expect:
Local artisan market with diverse handmade products.
Description:
Wylde Thistle's Winter Artisan Market features over 30 local makers, bakers, and creators showcasing a range of curated gifts and goodies.
Where: Lanark | More Info: Wylde Thistle's Winter Artisan Market
Holy Cross High School Christmas Fair
What to Expect:
Grand prize raffle with a signed Motherwell FC jersey and mountain bike.
Description:
Holy Cross High School Christmas Fair is a family-friendly event featuring Santa's winter visit, local food stalls, games, and Christmas-themed activities. Local businesses offer gifts and stocking fillers, with musical performances and a grand prize raffle draw.
Where: Hamilton | More Info: Holy Cross High School Christmas Fair
Craigend Nursery & Coffee Shop Christmas Markets
What to Expect:
Unique shopping experience with local crafters and small businesses.
Description:
Craigend Nursery & Coffee Shop Christmas Markets feature a variety of local makers selling homewares, jewellery, personalized gifts, artwork, cakes, and stationery.
Where: East Kilbride | More Info: Craigend Nursery & Coffee Shop Christmas Markets
Glasgow Winterfest
What to Expect:
Vibrant holiday market with international food and crafts.
Description:
Glasgow Winterfest is a vibrant celebration in the heart of Glasgow, featuring festive joy, entertainment, and holiday spirit from November 9th to January 6th. Enjoy an array of stalls offering handcrafted goods, food, and drinks from around the world, along with an ice rink, funfair rides, and live entertainment.
Where: Glasgow | More Info: Glasgow Winterfest
Tea Green Winter Market
What to Expect:
Celebrating Scotland's creative talent with eclectic exhibitor edits.
Description:
Tea Green Winter Market showcases Scotland's finest independent artists and designers in a curated selection of handcrafted products, offering unique shopping experiences in stunning locations.
Where: Glasgow | More Info: Tea Green Winter Market
Bishopbriggs Village Nursery Christmas Fayre
What to Expect:
Community-driven Christmas market with local business participation.
Description:
Bishopbriggs Village Nursery Christmas Fayre is a community event featuring stalls with Christmas gifts, raffles, tombolas, children's games, food, and drinks. Local businesses are invited to host stalls, with a cost of £15 and a raffle donation.
Where: Bishopbriggs | More Info: Bishopbriggs Village Nursery Christmas Fayre
Old Gatehouse Christmas Fayre
What to Expect:
Shop local gifts and support small businesses.
Description:
The Old Gatehouse Christmas Fayre offers beautiful gift ideas from local small businesses, providing an opportunity to support local artisans and find unique holiday presents.
Where: Glasgow | More Info: Old Gatehouse Christmas Fayre
Ayrshire Hospice's Winter Fair
What to Expect:
Extensive range of festive stalls and fundraising activities.
Description:
Ayrshire Hospice's Winter Fair features over 100 stalls with gift ideas, festive cards, and sweet treats. Enjoy live entertainment, visit Santa, and participate in fundraising activities like the bottle stall and tombola. Admission is £3, with under 5s going free.
Where: Ayr | More Info: Ayrshire Hospice's Winter Fair
Crosshouse Children's Fund Christmas Fair
What to Expect:
Unique gifts and festive entertainment for the whole family.
Description:
The Crosshouse Children's Fund Christmas Fair at The Park Hotel in Kilmarnock offers a family-friendly day out with over 50 stalls selling homeware, clothing, jewellery, and sweet treats. Local performers entertain with Christmas favourites, and children can visit Santa, post letters to the North Pole, and meet Olaf. The event also features friendly alpacas and a fire engine from Kilmarnock Fire Station.
Where: Kilmarnock | More Info: Crosshouse Children's Fund Christmas Fair
Edinburgh's Christmas
What to Expect:
Traditional Christmas Markets with local and international vendors.
Description:
Edinburgh's Christmas transforms the city centre into a vibrant destination for festive family fun, featuring traditional Christmas Markets, funfair rides, spectacular live outdoor events, and delicious food and drink.
Where: Edinburgh | More Info: Edinburgh's Christmas
Stirling Christmas Markets
What to Expect:
Local Scottish brands and crafts showcased in the historic Great Hall.
Description:
The Stirling Christmas Markets at Stirling Castle offer a delightful shopping experience with local Scottish brands, crafts, fine foods, and drink. Enjoy wonderful music by a brass band and indulge in delicious mince pies and mulled wine.
Where: Stirling | More Info: Stirling Christmas Markets
Aberdeen Christmas Village
What to Expect:
Unique market with local artisans and gourmet food.
Description:
The Aberdeen Christmas Village is a vibrant holiday event featuring a unique market, ice rink, fairground rides, live music, and community entertainment. It offers a variety of gifts, gourmet food, and drink options, making it a delightful experience for all the family.
Where: Aberdeen | More Info: Aberdeen Christmas Village
Oban Winter Festival
What to Expect:
Unique blend of local culture, music, and festive lights.
Description:
Oban Winter Festival is a ten-day celebration in Oban, Scotland, featuring a variety of activities including holiday markets, live music, reindeer parades, and stunning light displays. The event showcases local artisans, traditional Scottish cuisine, and festive installations in the picturesque coastal town.
Where: Oban | More Info: Oban Winter Festival
East Kilbride Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Once Upon A Fairytale
What to Expect:
Interactive pantomime with local children's chorus.
Description:
Once Upon A Fairytale is an exciting pantomime featuring all your favourite fairy tale characters, with magic spells, dastardly deeds, music, and dance by a talented chorus of local children.
Where: East Kilbride | More Info: Once Upon A Fairytale
The Magical Adventures of Aladdin
What to Expect:
Classic fairy tale characters in a lively pantomime performance.
Description:
Shona Halford MTDA Performing Arts presents The Magical Adventures of Aladdin, a family-friendly pantomime featuring Aladdin, his brother Wishee Washee, and their mother Widow Twankey as they thwart the evil Abanazer's plans to rule the world.
Where: East Kilbride | More Info: The Magical Adventures of Aladdin
Snow White
What to Expect:
Classic fairy tale with captivating songs and unforgettable characters.
Description:
Step into a world of magic and wonder as Encore Stars Academy presents their production of Snow White at East Kilbride Village Theatre. Follow Snow White as she escapes the wicked Queen, finds friendship with the seven dwarfs, and discovers the power of true love. This timeless story promises an evening of joy, laughter, and happily ever after.
Where: East Kilbride | More Info: Snow White
Pinocchio
What to Expect:
Interactive pantomime with audience participation and catchy songs.
Description:
Join the lovable wooden puppet Pinocchio on a journey filled with laughter, lessons, and unforgettable moments. Watch as our talented cast brings to life charming Geppetto, mischievous Jiminy Cricket, and the enchanting star Fairy. Expect plenty of audience participation, catchy songs, and hilarious moments that will keep everyone entertained.
Where: East Kilbride | More Info: Pinocchio
M&D's Theme Park 'BELIEVE in Santa'
What to Expect:
Interactive Christmas experience with festive storytelling and themed activities.
Description:
Join the residents of Candy Cane Cottage as they bring to life the most iconic Christmas tale. Expect festive storytelling, a beautifully themed Christmas Grotto, visits with Santa and his Elves, and a ride on the indoor Italian Carousel. Each child gets to choose a quality gift from Santa’s Workshop, and adults receive a voucher for a tea or coffee and Christmas treat.
Where: Motherwell | More Info: M&D's Theme Park 'BELIEVE in Santa'
Christmas Crooners
What to Expect:
Classic Christmas songs performed by talented West-End Singers.
Description:
A romantic Christmas special featuring festive favorites by Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole, and Frank Sinatra, performed by West-End Singers backed by the Jazz-All-Stars swing band.
Where: East Kilbride | More Info: Christmas Crooners
Santa & Mrs Claus Experience
What to Expect:
Private, personalized Santa and Mrs. Claus encounter with imaginative storytelling.
Description:
Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus for a private 30-minute audience, featuring imaginative theatrical storytelling and personalized experiences.
Where: East Kilbride | More Info: Santa & Mrs Claus Experience
On Stage Academy's Grinchmas
What to Expect:
Interactive visits with Santa and the Grinch.
Description:
Join On Stage Academy for a festive Grinchmas event at Kirkhill church building in Cambuslang. Meet Santa and the Grinch, enjoy family-friendly activities, and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Where: Cambuslang | More Info: On Stage Academy's Grinchmas
A Crackin' Christmas Carol
What to Expect:
Scottish twist on a classic Christmas tale with all-singing, all-dancing performances.
Description:
A Crackin' Christmas Carol is a family-friendly pantomime with a Scottish twist on Charles Dickens' classic tale. It features all-singing, all-dancing performances and a unique blend of humor and festive spirit.
Where: East Kilbride | More Info: A Crackin' Christmas Carol
The McDougalls' Musical Extravaganza
What to Expect:
Interactive fairy tale adventure with audience participation.
Description:
The McDougalls' Musical Extravaganza is a lively and entertaining show featuring classic fairy tales like Little Red Riding Hood and Three Little Pigs. With a missing fairy's magic wand, the characters need your help to restore the magic and ensure everyone has a Happy Christmas. The show is filled with tricks, treats, and laughter, making it perfect for families.
Where: East Kilbride | More Info: The McDougalls' Musical Extravaganza
The Nutcracker
What to Expect:
World-class ballet performance with elaborate sets and costumes.
Description:
Scottish Ballet presents The Nutcracker, a classic fairy tale ballet with Tchaikovsky's iconic score, featuring Clara's journey through her imagination on Christmas Eve.
Where: Inverness | More Info: The Nutcracker
Christmas at New Lanark
What to Expect:
Interactive Christmas-themed attractions and shows.
Description:
Celebrate the holiday season at New Lanark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with Santa visits, pantomime performances, and festive activities for all ages.
Where: New Lanark | More Info: Christmas at New Lanark
Fairytale of New York
What to Expect:
Irish-inspired Christmas concert with international cast.
Description:
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Irish culture with Fairytale of New York, featuring festive favourites and greatest Irish sing-along songs. Talented singers, musicians, and dancers perform a world-class concert that brings the magic of the season to life.
Where: Glasgow | More Info: Fairytale of New York
The Ferry Christmas Party Night
What to Expect:
Live tribute acts and DJ entertainment.
Description:
The Ferry's Christmas Party Night offers a lively evening with dinner, dancing, and top-quality entertainment featuring tributes to legendary stars like Abba, The Stones, Bowie, and more. The event includes a DJ set to keep the party going till 1am.
Where: Glasgow | More Info: The Ferry Christmas Party Night
Disco Days Vs Dance Days
What to Expect:
Retro music dance party with over 30s.
Description:
Get ready to dance the day away with Disco Days Vs Dance Days This afternoon clubbing event features the greatest hits of the 70s, 80s, and beyond, perfect for a fun day out with friends, family, or colleagues.
Where: Glasgow | More Info: Disco Days Vs Dance Days
André Rieu's Christmas Concert
What to Expect:
Classical music performance with elaborate stage decorations.
Description:
André Rieu's Christmas Concert features classic Christmas carols and waltzes performed by the King of the Waltz and his Johann Strauss Orchestra, accompanied by special guest artists.
Where: Giffnock | More Info: André Rieu's Christmas Concert
Edinburgh's Hogmanay
What to Expect:
Multi-day celebration with live music, street theatre, and fireworks.
Description:
Edinburgh's Hogmanay is a four-day celebration featuring the Concert in the Gardens with headliners Texas and special guest Callum Beattie, the world-famous Street Party with live bands and DJs, street theatre, and unforgettable fireworks. The event includes packed New Year's Day free events with live music and family activities throughout the city centre.
Where: Edinburgh | More Info: Edinburgh's Hogmanay
Castle of Light
What to Expect:
Interactive light and sound show on historic castle walls.
Description:
Castle of Light is an immersive after-dark walking tour at Edinburgh Castle, featuring state-of-the-art light installations and storytelling projections that bring Edinburgh's history to life. Meet Rex the loveable lion and explore mythical creatures and forgotten tales.
Where: Edinburgh | More Info: Castle of Light
East Kilbride Other Holiday Activities
Kilbryde Hospice Santa Dash
What to Expect:
Santa-themed run with optional furry friends.
Description:
Join Kilbryde Hospice for the Santa Dash at Hamilton Park Racecourse, where participants can run, jog, or walk while wearing Santa hats. The event supports those in need by raising funds for the hospice.
Where: Hamilton | More Info: Kilbryde Hospice Santa Dash
Braw Wee Craft Club's Pom Pom Xmas Wreath Workshop
What to Expect:
Unique, handmade pom pom wreaths.
Description:
Create your own personalized Christmas wreaths using vibrant and fluffy pom poms in a hands-on workshop. Each wreath is lovingly made by hand, ensuring a unique touch that stands out among traditional decorations. Participants can choose from various colors and textures to design a wreath that truly reflects their style.
Where: Glasgow | More Info: Braw Wee Craft Club's Pom Pom Xmas Wreath Workshop
Helensburgh and Lomond Civic Centre Country Christmas Boozy Brunch
What to Expect:
Line dancing and brunch buffet with a twist.
Description:
Join Helensburgh and Lomond Civic Centre for a Country Christmas Boozy Brunch, featuring a brunch buffet, line dancing, cocktails, shopping stalls, and tarot readings. Enjoy the rustic venue's festive atmosphere with cowboy boots and Santa hats.
Where: Helensburgh | More Info: Helensburgh and Lomond Civic Centre Country Christmas Boozy Brunch
Glasgow Irn-Bru Carnival
What to Expect:
Family-friendly funfair with classic stalls and rides.
Description:
The Glasgow Irn-Bru Carnival is a vibrant indoor funfair featuring a range of classic stalls, inflatable play areas, and rides for all ages. Visitors can enjoy activities like hook-a-duck and coconut shy, as well as grab a coffee while the kids play.
Where: Glasgow | More Info: Glasgow Irn-Bru Carnival
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Cambuslang (3 miles)
- Rutherglen (5 miles)
- Hamilton (6 miles)
- Meikle Earnock (6 miles)
- Newton Mearns (6 miles)
- Bellshill (7 miles)
- Motherwell (7 miles)
- Glasgow (8 miles)
- Coatbridge (9 miles)
- Bishopbriggs (10 miles)
- Wishaw (10 miles)
- Airdrie (10 miles)
- Paisley (11 miles)
- Renfrew (11 miles)
- Bearsden (12 miles)
- Clydebank (13 miles)
- Cumbernauld (15 miles)
- Kilmarnock (16 miles)
- Irvine (21 miles)
- Vale of Leven (21 miles)
- Falkirk (22 miles)
- Bathgate (23 miles)
- Greenock (26 miles)
- Stirling (26 miles)
- Livingston (27 miles)
- Ayr (27 miles)
- Alloa (29 miles)
- Dunfermline (35 miles)
- Edinburgh (40 miles)