The Edinburgh Christmas market opened last Friday, 15 November. The annual event has a selection of attractions, including traditional vendors and modern rides
They will be open until Saturday, 4 January, with over 70 vendors expected to showcase their products.
Edinburgh’s market was named the eighth best in Europe by fashion brand FatFace.
Market visitors are expected to contribute heavily to Edinburgh’s local economy. According to the BBC, they produced £113 billion in 2017.
This year was estimated to cost “circa £3m“. Profits are expected to reimburse the cost in full.
Access to the market is free for everyone however Edinburgh locals with an EH postcode have been offered a 20% discount on selected events.
However, some students have expressed their belief that the products being sold are too expensive.
“I do think they have descended into an overpriced mess”, said one student. Another agreed: “It’s very tourist trap-y, but most of Edinburgh is to be fair”.
Another point comes from concern for those who are not able to access the markets due to disability concerns.
The student said: “From a disability point of view there are no clear adjustments or support in place for guests”
“I can’t imagine being a wheelchair user attending – that would be hell”.
The last concern comes from one shared by residents of Edinburgh generally during this time of year.
One student commented: “It’s so congested everywhere”.
Another agreed: “I think the numbers of people they let in are frequently unsafe”.
Despite these concerns, the students still expressed their desire to visit, wanting to enjoy the positive environment and activities on offer.
Along with the Christmas Markets, Edinburgh Christmas also offers other venues, including a Polar Ice Bar, ice skating, and multiple shows, among others.
Details of events and ticket offerings can be found on the Edinburgh Christmas website.
“Edinburgh Christmas Market” by csakkarin is licensed under CC BY 2.0.