You know that the festive season is getting into top gear when all you can see across the city are glittering Christmas lights. Edinburgh city centre is not the only place that’s transformed into a festive wonderland, many of the suburbs and residential areas are joining in too, so you won’t be far from the action.

First Up - George Street
George Street takes the honour of being the first to switch on its Christmas lights. Edinburgh shoppers can only get some Christmas shopping done but they can do so against the pretty backdrop of twinkling stars. Thursday 26th November is the date for the big switch on of these Christmas lights. Edinburgh will already have the ice rink, market stalls and the Winter Wonderland in full effect, so things will start feeling very festive.

Remember December
The beginning of December marks the date for most of the switch ons for Christmas lights. Edinburgh St Patrick’s Square, Queensferry High Street and Morningside are just some of the areas that are going to glitter.

Christmas Tree
The Christmas trees at The Mound and Grassmarket are also set to turn on their Christmas lights. Edinburgh has traditionally received a tree as a gift from Hordaland in Norway and this magnificent tree will continue to take pride of place at The Mound. Grassmarket will also unveil its tree at 6pm, Thursday 3rd December.

You can see Christmas lights across Edinburgh, Thursday 26th November 2009- January 2010.