Blog by Martha C
The winter months can be a challenging time, especially with the lack of sunlight and cold weather in Edinburgh! However, trying to get into the Christmas spirit can help to distract from this, and festive activities provide a perfect break from studying for end of semester exams!
Explore the Christmas markets
Edinburgh Christmas market is one of the oldest and most established in the UK, now being a major tourist attraction. You should definitely head down to Princes Street gardens to explore the wide range of food, drink, and gift stalls there.
Although the stalls can be quite expensive, entry to the market itself is free and still fun to have a look around. Also, those with EH postcodes get discounted prices on some of the activities offered!
Christmas Carol Service
The University holds an annual carol service in McEwan Hall which students, staff, and members of the public can attend. This is a great way to connect with others and feel a sense of community, and you could even bring any family or friends along. It’s a very popular event so try to get there early – I know people who didn’t manage to get in last December! This year, it will take place on 11th December at 6pm and is free and non-ticketed.
After the event, guests can go to the Chaplaincy at Bristo Square for mulled wine and mince pies!
Festive December Meal
Every year, Edinburgh University holds a festive meal at Pollock. This involves lots of food and games and is attended by both staff and students. It’s a fun way to meet new people and have a proper Christmas meal, without spending too much money! Tickets require just a £5 deposit, which is then donated to a student-chosen charity. This year, the festive meal is held on the 11th, 12th, and 13th December.
These meals are a great way to help students who are perhaps unable to see loved ones over the winter period to still feel at home.
Christmas Quiz at Potterrow
Potterrow, on Bristo Square, is decorated for Christmas each year and is a perfect place to study and socialise. A free breakfast is hosted there every Friday from 8am-10am, which includes unlimited coffee so especially useful during exam season!
An interactive quiz takes place in the Potterrow Dome every Sunday, but on the last week of term they hold a Christmas-themed version (8th December this year). Potterrow has cheaper drink prices than most other pubs in Edinburgh so the ideal location for a student pub quiz!
