What's On around Perthshire in December

Perthshire in December offers plenty of festive experiences, from snowy, woodland walks and wildlife spotting to Christmas markets in towns such as Perth and Aberfeldy.

There's also Light trails to discover and Winter Wonderlands, to Skiing (and sledging) in Glenshee Ski Centre and pop up Santa's Grottos in places like Active Kids Adventure Park in Stanley, and Glendoick Garden Centre (located just off the Perth to Dundee Road). New for 2026 is Santa Paws - yes, your dog can be booked into meet the great man himself, get a (bone-shaped) gift and create a lasting memory at Glendoick. 

No matter where you decide to make your home from home this festive season, Perthshire is the perfect place to embrace and enjoy the magic of Christmas and New Year.

What's On in Perthshire This Month

Santa's sleigh journeys through the streets of Dunkeld pulled by reindeers with crowds cheering and waving

Santa and Reindeer Day in Dunkeld

The Dunkeld and Birnam Santa Day is one of the best Christmas events in Scotland.

At 1pm Santa and his Reindeer lead the festive parade from Birnam Hotel over the bridge into Dunkeld and into Santa' Grotto on the main square. There's also a Christmas Market, full of wonderful crafts, gifts and local produce to enjoy.

If you fancy something more high energy, there's also a Santa Run to watch or take part in!  More >

A crowded Pitlochry street full of festive revellers, on a crisp winter's afternoon at Pitlochry's Street Party

Pitlochry Street Party

The New Year Street Party in Pitlochry has been going since 1999.

It now attracts about 5,000 a year to enjoy free food and music. 

The Party starts around 12noon, when the streets fill with people from far and wide to enjoy music and dancing down the (closed to traffic!) main street.

Hogmanay in Aberfeldy

Celebrate the New Year in Aberfeldy's main square.

With a lineup of local bands playing to good-natured a crowd, enjoy Scottish hospitality at its best.

See in the New Year in style with the annual firework display at the bells.

This is a free of charge, community led event.  More>

A festive stall holder at Perth Christmas Market

Perth Christmas & Craft Market

An outdoor market with stalls selling arts & crafts, artisan food, plants and shrubs and food to go, Perth Christmas & Craft Market is the perfect place to pick up a gift or just linger a while to soak up the festive atmosphere.

There's free entertinament to enjoy also with music featuring local acts and groups, Horne' Pleasure Rides, Street Food and Street Entertainers. More > 

A stunning night time picture of a colourful lighting display in Perth

Perth Wildlife Lights Trail

Featuring local wildlife-themed light installations, like luminous otters, salmon, stags and unicorns, Perth's Festive of Light centres around the River Tay and Perth Theatre and Plaza.

It's a seasonal display with the trial often including other city light displays.

Wrap up warm and hunt for illuminated creatures in various locations along the trail.

Perfect festive fun for all ages.

Discover the towns and villages of Highland Perthshire

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Guest Reviews

Another most enjoyable stay at one of our favourite places to take a holiday. The Cow Shed was, once again, perfect for our needs. We love the quiet peaceful environment & the amazing views along the valley. A great base to explore Perthshire from. We enjoyed ascending Cairngorm on the mountain funicular railway (near Aviemore) for the spectacular views, followed by a journey on Strathspey Heritage railway from Aviemore to Broomhill.


April 2026
A lovely host on hand for advice, the beautifully finished accommodation, wonderful walks on the doorstep, Pitlochry just down the road with excellent restaurants and pubs - and a thriving theatre. Completely stress-free stay.


June 2026
Our family had another fantastic and memorable stay at Faskally Cottage. This cottage is a real gem, and we have stayed here for yearly since 2016 and will keep returning. The location is stunning.


August 2026