Event

Christmas Light Switch On and Parade

We’re signalling the start of the festive season with our Light Switch On and Christmas Parade through the Quarter, which is bigger, brighter, and more magical than ever!  

On Saturday 8th November from 4pm, the Galleria will sparkle in spectacular style as the much-anticipated Christmas Parade sweeps through the Quarter. Expect a joyous and unexpected celebration of colour, music, dance and performance, with wandering musicians, graceful ballerinas, street-style dancers, and of course, a very stylish Santa making his entrance in true St James Quarter fashion. 

This year, Santa adds an extra touch of magic by touring the Capital in a branded taxi, inviting guests to join him on his journey to the Quarter before concluding at Register Square with a showstopping moment: a magical light switch-on and Christmas sing-along led by Edinburgh’s much-loved Tinderbox Orchestra. 

From traditional carols to contemporary hip-hop moves, the Galleria will be alive with the sound of Christmas, offering a free and wonderfully festive evening for residents and visitors alike. 

Tinderbox Orchestra bring together rappers and singers with soaring strings, heavy brass, woodwind and thundering bass and drums.  They transform preconceptions of what an orchestra can be. Packed with original music and unexpected collaborations, it is an unforgettable experience featuring some of Scotland’s leading musicians across genres and a host of local and international collaborators and performers. 

After the parade and Christmas lights switch-on, head to our Santa Express pop-up on Level 3 for a festive photo with Santa himself. 

With an enchanting ensemble of sparkling lights, unexpected live performances and family fun across the festive season, the Quarter truly is the destination to shop, dine, play and stay longer and of course…experience the magic of Christmas.

Watch this space as we reveal our full programme of festive events…