The opening of Edinburgh’s world-famous Christmas market this weekend has marked the beginning of festivities in the city, drawing visitors from near and far.
Hundreds of revellers flocked to Edinburgh city centre to catch some early Christmas spirit as the gates to the market opened on Saturday.
Crowds lined up to browse this year’s selection of market stalls, selling arts and crafts from everything including jewellery and Christmas baubles, ceramics and leather gifts.
There’s plenty of food and drink stalls offering festive drinks and snacks, including mulled wine, hot dogs, macaroni cheese and salt and chilli chicken. Those with a sweet tooth won’t be disappointed, with pancakes, crepes and chocolate covered strawberries to choose from.
Edinburgh’s Christmas market will run until January 4 and next week will see George Square’s ice rink and bar open on November 20.
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1. Edinburgh's Christmas
The centre of town filled up with crowds as the gates to the market opened at 10am on Saturday | Rhoda Morrison
2. Edinburgh's Christmas
At a whopping 80 metres tall, the Starflyer towers over the East Princes Street Garden Christmas Market and provides incredible views of the city | Rhoda Morrison
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3. Edinburgh's Christmas
Crowds piled into Princes Street Gardens on the first day of the world-renowned market | Rhoda Morrison
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4. Edinburgh's Christmas
It wouldn't be a trip to the Christmas market without a scrumptious (and probably overpriced) Bratwurst | Rhoda Morrison