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).

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

All Reviews →

Guest Reviews

Another delightful week in Cow Shed 2. As ever the cottage was spotless and cosy. We feel welcomed by owners Steve and Kirsty and are privileged to visit their lovely corner of Perthshire.


April 2026
There were a few unexpected highlights. The Highland Night at the recreation ground on Monday nights was a surprise for us. A Pipeband, dancers and entertainment for toe-tapping and clapping (an outside entertainment so dogs welcome). We also discovered Menzies Castle near Aberfeldy. A very authentic and unspoiled piece of Scottish history.


June 2026
Loved our stay here - brilliant location for all the Pitlochry walks and only 10 minutes from the centre. The rooms were so comfortable and well maintained and it was a great size. Lovely outdoor space too and beautiful views over the hills.


July 2026