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VWL Day 3 Advent Calendar: A Festive Guide to Christmas Markets in West Lothian
Welcome to Day 3 of the Visit West Lothian Advent Calendar! Today, we’re embracing the joy of Christmas markets, where twinkling fairy lights, the smell of spiced mulled wine, and the buzz of happy shoppers create a truly magical holiday experience. West Lothian’s Christmas markets are brimming with festive cheer, offering the perfect opportunity to soak in the season while ticking gifts off your holiday shopping list.
Whether you’re looking for handcrafted treasures, delicious treats, or simply an excuse to wrap up warm and enjoy the festive vibes, these markets promise something for everyone. Let’s dive into the highlights of West Lothian’s best Christmas markets this year!
Today, we're shining a spotlight on the Five Sisters Zoo Illuminations—a dazzling event that transforms the beloved zoo into a winter wonderland of twinkling lights and festive cheer.
Linlithgow Advent Fayre
📅 Saturday, November 30, 2024
📍 Linlithgow Burgh Halls and Town Centre
Linlithgow is THE place to be on November 30th! The Advent Fayre transforms this historic town into a winter wonderland, packed with craft stalls, food vendors, and holiday magic. From the bustling market at the Burgh Halls to festive entertainment on the streets, this event is a highlight of West Lothian’s Christmas calendar.
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Must-See Highlights:
Browse an array of handmade crafts, seasonal decorations, and delicious baked goods made by local artisans. Pick up unique gifts like hand-knitted scarves, pottery, or gourmet preserves. -
Fun for All Ages:
The Santa Dash charity run at 4:05 PM adds a playful twist to the day, while the Torchlight Procession at 5 PM promises a magical experience as the crowd makes its way through the town. Finish the evening with carols sung by the Linlithgow Reed Band as the Christmas Tree lights are switched on at 6 PM. -
Top Tip:
Bring your camera! Linlithgow’s historic backdrop paired with the warm glow of the torchlight makes for picture-perfect festive moments.
Linlithgow
A historical town, Linlithgow perfectly blends old and new offering visitors an array of wonderful sights, events and shopping and dining.
Bathgate Christmas Extravaganza
📅 Saturday, December 7, 2024
📍 George Street and The Steelyard, Bathgate
Bathgate’s Christmas Extravaganza is much more than a market; it’s a full day of festive entertainment and fun for the entire family. From live music to festive stalls, this event has it all.
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Stalls to Explore:
Discover everything from luxurious handmade candles to artisan chocolates, beautifully crafted ornaments, and festive wreaths to adorn your home. -
Entertainment:
Let the sounds of Christmas fill the air with carols performed by Kirkton Brass, Bathgate Band, and Menzies Choir, accompanied by the joyful tunes of Radio Grapevine. The Carol Service starts at 4 PM, followed by the grand countdown and Christmas Tree Light Switch-On in the heart of the town. -
Family Fun:
Kids will love the festive atmosphere, and you might even spot Santa himself wandering through the market!
Bathgate Christmas Switch On Event
This year's Christmas event in Bathgate kicks of the month of December and our annual festivities, and takes place in George Street and the Steelyard, from 3pm until 6pm, on Saturday 2 December 2023. The day includes local market trading stalls in collaboration with Bathgate Market, a carol service with traditional and contemporary singing, choir and accompanying local brass bands (from 4pm). The Bathgate Procession Principal Characters will turn on the Christmas tree lights as their final civic duty of the year around 4.30pm. And then why not stick around to see our own local world champions perform here in Bathgate and West Lothian. The Peoples Ford Boghall and Bathgate Caledonia Pipe Band will also be participating in the Christmas lights switch-on ceremony in recognition of their fantastic achievement in becoming World Pipe Band champions for the first time in their 50-year history this year. Piping is a strong tradition here in West Lothian, so let's celebrate this phenomenal success. A short celebratory parade will take place from 5pm from George Place, and follow George Street, North Bridge Street, South Bridge Street and returning to George Place and Steelyard. This is not an occasion to be missed so bring yourself, family and friends along for this festive treat.
Almond Valley Christmas
📅 Select Dates in December
📍 Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Livingston
Tucked away in the scenic countryside, Almond Valley’s Christmas is a hidden gem for families. The charming heritage centre comes alive with festive stalls, twinkling lights, and a welcoming atmosphere.
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What Makes It Special:
Explore a selection of unique gifts from local vendors, from intricate ceramics to one-of-a-kind holiday décor. With the centre's festive activities like meeting the animals or taking part in Christmas crafts, it’s the perfect blend of shopping and family fun. -
Insider Tip:
Plan your visit early to make the most of the day—kids will love visiting the farm animals or taking a ride on the holiday-themed tractor!
Christmas at Almond Valley
There's so much happening at Almond Valley during the Christmas season. On selected nights we remain open after dark when thousands of tiny twinkly lights will illuminate a trail through the trees to the land of the reindeer. Santa will be in residence in his cosy farmyard cottage, and there is a special programme of events for pre-schoolers, friends of gentle Santa and party-goers.
The Magic of Christmas Markets
Christmas markets are more than just shopping—they’re about creating memories. Wander through rows of beautifully decorated stalls, illuminated by soft fairy lights, while the scent of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and freshly baked gingerbread fills the air. Let the festive tunes of live carollers set the mood as you savour a hot chocolate or a mince pie.
Markets like these remind us that the holidays are about community, celebration, and those little moments that make the season so special.
Extra Festive Highlights Across West Lothian
Beyond the markets, West Lothian is brimming with holiday events to pair with your festive shopping:
- Polbeth Santa Parade (November 26): Kick off the season with a twinkling parade starting at Polbeth Hub at 6 PM.
- Linlithgow’s Starry Nights at Beecraigs (December 6–23): Wander illuminated trails, enjoy a festive food village, and hop on thrilling funfair rides.
- Torchlight Processions Across Towns: From Bathgate to East Calder, these glowing processions add a warm, magical glow to the season.
Shop Local, Spread Joy
Visiting West Lothian’s Christmas markets is not just about finding unique gifts—it’s about supporting local artisans, businesses, and communities. Every purchase you make helps keep these cherished traditions alive.
So grab your coziest scarf, gather your friends and family, and head out to explore the festive magic of West Lothian’s Christmas markets. Stay tuned for Day 4 of our Advent Calendar, where we’ll uncover more festive fun to brighten your holiday season!
Visit West Lothian, Civic Centre, Howden South Road, Livingston, West Lothian. EH54 6FF UK Registration No. SC346843
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