Perth Festive Market and Santa's Grotto

Perth's Christmas Lights Switch-On Weekend runs from Friday 20 to Sunday 22 November across the city centre, three days of live music, street performances, and festive food and drink. It's organised by Perth and Kinross Council, and the main draw is the Perth Festive Market, which stretches along King Edward Street and High Street. If you're after a proper Christmas market feel, that's where you'll find it.

Santa takes up residence at Horsecross Plaza on Mill Street, where children get an early Christmas gift. There's also an autism-friendly session held there, so it's a good spot to bring the little ones without the usual rush. The weekend builds towards the big moment: the Christmas Lights Switch-On at 6pm on Saturday, staged from the main stage on Tay Street beside the Royal George Hotel. Tay FM presenters Gregor, Lynsey and Amber host the evening, and it's followed by a fireworks display over the River Tay. On Sunday evening, there's a drone show to round things off.

Friday adds a couple of different options to the mix: Christmas Ghost Tours and a Silent Disco. Saturday morning brings the Santa Run at midday, so if you fancy a bit of a trot around the city in costume, that's your slot. Between the market, the grotto, the music, and the performances, there's plenty to pick and choose from across the three days.

Entry is free, though you'll pay for funfair rides and whatever you buy from the Festive Market and The Handmade Show. The market runs along King Edward Street and High Street, Santa's Grotto is at Horsecross Plaza on Mill Street, and the lights switch on at 6pm on Saturday from the main stage on Tay Street.