Families Edinburgh November/December by Families Magazine

IN THIS ISSUE

Christmas Shows & Panto What’s On

Issue 139 November / December 2023

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Heriot’s: leading Scottish education

Application deadline

1 December 2023 A happy, supportive school that nurtures individual potential from nursery to S6. Just one reason we were voted Scotland’s Independent school of the decade.

george-heriots.com George Heriot’s School is governed by George Heriot’s Trust, Scottish Charity number SC011463

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news&views The winter coat exchange is running in all three Leith Collective stores. Locals and businesses are being urged to donate good quality winter coats and waterproof jackets suitable for all ages and sizes. The coats will be available for anyone to collect at Ocean Terminal, Fort Kinnaird and St Enoch Centre completely free of charge, no questions asked. The winter coat exchange is a sustainable solution that aims to keep quality clothes out of landfill and in use for longer, thus promoting a circular economy and helping to reduce the environmental impact of the textile industry.

A new chapter for local Daisy teachers Many local parents will be familiar with The Daisy Foundation having gone to their antenatal or baby classes. Sadly the national organisation ceased trading in August, leaving existing teachers the opportunity to carry on delivering classes through their own businesses. Fortunately for Edinburgh and the Lothians, classes will continue as Kathryn Lawrence - Pregnancy & Postnatal Edinburgh and through Pebble Perinatal in East Lothian. Thankfully many more families will be supported now well into the future through regular antenatal classes, birth preparation workshops, baby classes and breastfeeding support, to support them through pregnancy, birth and into early parenthood. Find your local class pebbleperinatal.co.uk or bookwhen.com/kathrynlawrenceperinatal EDA, recently voted highest ranked dance school in the UK and Ireland offers classes and exams in RAD Ballet, Commercial, Pre School Dance (for those little movers!), Parent and child Teenie Toes classes, Jazz, Modern, Tap, Acro, Turns and Limbering, Progressing Ballet Technique, Contemporary, Boys only classes, Competition and much more! We pride ourselves on our high standards and constantly apply ourselves to be the best but the most important thing is that all of our pupils are cared for, nurtured and have FUN!! This term we are offering a two weeks absolutely FREE. For more information please email hello@eda.scot

Get in Touch

Sat 25 Nov to Sun 31 Dec FESTIVAL THEATRE

Fri 8 to Sun 24 December THE STUDIO

A MAGICAL NEW CINDERELLA STORY

0131 622 0405

editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk @FamiliesEdinburghMagazine @Familiesedinbur

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Fri 5 to Sat 20 January 2024 THE STUDIO

Email us - editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Families Edinburgh 3

news&views The Forest at Merchiston

Worn in Wardrobe

Merchiston Plants Seeds for a co-educational forest Pre School & Junior School – opening September 2024. Nestled in Merchiston Castle School’s expansive, wooded campus The Forest has been designed to meet the booming demand for outdoor learning for younger children in Edinburgh: The Forest pre-school for boys & girls aged 3-5 The Forest Junior school for boys & girls in P1-3

Shopping for children’s clothes second-hand is the affordable and planet-friendly alternative to shopping new. Worn In Wardrobe is a local mum-run resale business that offers you an easy and enjoyable way to do this without the faff of using a marketplace. You can buy and sell good quality children’s clothes reliably via their online shop and quotation service. Each item is hand-checked by the team and priced according to the brand and condition, with the aim of giving both buyers and sellers a fair and consistent price. Local mum Madeleine started this business to make busy parents’ lives easier, and to encourage more people to adopt circular and sustainable habits. Visit www.worninwardrobe.com to find out more or get in touch by emailing hello@worninwardrobe.com

Where learning happens naturally The Forest will focus on wellbeing and developing the potential of every boy and girl so that they thrive. Its nurturing approach and stunning, wooded environment will afford children the physical freedom to learn and grow in a natural environment underpinned by the very best educational methodology. The Forest at Merchiston will be a unique offering within Edinburgh focussing on learning through play, the natural environment, limitless adventures, and child-led learning all with a foundation in academic excellence. Teaching will be child-centred with high staff/child ratios and small class groupings. As well as an idyllic start to their education, the boys and girls will receive the very best academic start. Davina Bowers, Head of The Forest sad: “I am honoured to have been appointed Head Teacher of The Forest at Merchiston and excited to pave the way for an unparalleled educational experience in the most beautiful natural setting in Edinburgh. I am very much looking forward to meeting all our Forest Pioneers, and to bringing the holistic and nurturing Forest approach to local children and their families.” Register Now Places at The Forest are limited and anticipated to be in high demand from Edinburgh families due to its ground-breaking approach that reflects the educational desires of modern families. Prospective families of boys and girls are invited to register their interest by contacting The Forest admissions team to learn more about their son or daughter joining. Simply email TheForest@merchiston.co.uk or call on 0131 312 2201 to find out more.

Kids Kung Fu Class at Tai Chi Centre Online and in person Tai Chi and Qigong classes from Monday to Thursday. Workshops and Seminars take place at the weekends. Weekly kids Kung Fu class (Chinese Martial Art) take place on a weekly basis. Please contact the centre if you and your family are interested. We are registered in the UK as Tai Chi Centre Ltd. and traded as Tai Chi Centre. The company is formed by a group of Affiliates, Cooperators, and Tai Chi instructors working at volunteers basis by invitation. Based at 41 Bryson Road, Edinburgh, EH11 1DS Contact: 0131 259 9667. Master Liming Yue 07853 200 959 or Sifu Wenli 07725 568 257 www.taichicentre.com

OPEN

SeptemING ber 2024

Give your little one an education inspired by nature

Win! Tickets to Christmas at the Botanics, the after-dark spectacular which allows you to see the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh in a completely new light. Christmas at the Botanics has everything you need for an unforgettable time with family and friends, including a magical glimpse of Father Christmas along the way.

•

We have tickets to be won for the weekend of the 24th, 25th or 26th November. 1x family ticket (2 x adults + 2 x children) 2 adult tickets (x2) Email: christmas@clarkcommunications.co.uk for your chance to enter stating whether you want to win the family or adult tickets before midday on Thursday 16th November 2023. Full terms and conditions available - https://www.familiesonline.co.uk/families-magazines/families-edinburgh-magazine. By submitting your entry you are agreeing to receive communication from Raymond Gubbay LTD/Sony Music about Christmas at the Botanics and other related shows and events.

4 Families Edinburgh

Opening in September 2024, The Forest at Merchiston will offer your child an idyllic start to their education. Led by specialist teachers with small class sizes and a thoroughly child-centred approach, the fully co-educational Forest at Merchiston promises the very best in the formative early years of education. Forest Nursery: boys & girls aged 3–5 Forest Junior School: boys & girls P1–P3

theforest@merchiston.co.uk | 0131 312 2201 Where learning happens naturally

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George Heriot’s George Heriot’s opened its doors in 1658 for the education of Edinburgh’s ‘faitherless bairns’, made possible through the generosity of jeweller to James VI, George Heriot. We are proud to welcome young people from across Scottish society, especially Foundationers, children of widows and widowers, who live in Edinburgh and its environs. These pupils are a key part of our story as Edinburgh’s oldest independent school. ‘Giving’ remains at the heart of the school today in our Foundation and motto: I distribute chearfullie. Put simply, Heriot’s leads Scottish education, with a golden legacy of high quality academic attainment, kindness and care, with a foundation at its heart for pupils who are bereaved. Educating young people from Nursery to S6, Heriot’s welcomes children from 4 to 18 in a co-educational setting. Conveniently a city centre school, we have beautiful grounds and open spaces. Our Junior and Senior School classrooms are purposefully located together on one campus, creating a strong community feeling. Heriot’s values are simple: work hard, be kind, be happy. It is these values which bind our pupils and staff together, to create a cohesive culture. Through our extensive range of curricular and co-curricular subjects and activities, our emphasis is on developing each child’s potential and encouraging them to grow to be their best self. We have high expectations of our young people; we want them to thrive, enjoy their learning and care about one other. This was reflected when we were voted Scotland’s Independent School of the Decade by The Sunday Times. The application deadline (P1-S6) for August 2024 entry is Thursday 1 December 2023. The online application form is available via www.george-heriots.com/admissions/apply-online/. Please contact admissions@george-heriots.com for more information or to arrange a visit. Visitors are also welcome during term time, to allow you the opportunity to have a look around the school, get to know Heriot’s and our ethos and meet with key staff members to answer your queries. Contact the Admissions Office on 0131 221 6709 or admission@george-heriots.com to arrange a visit or to find out more about the admissions process. Choosing a school for your child is a very important decision. Our most important publicity comes from our current and former pupils and parents so do please feel free to speak to them! We look forward to meeting you and helping you discover what is behind the stones.

Soccerstarts

Soccerstarts Football Academy runs football skills classes for children from walking to 12 years old with various age-specific groups to suit your child’s football, social and developmental needs. All classes are fun and football skills focused. Walking - 3 years The first and second Soccerstarts stages encourages parents to 100% fully participate alongside their child. Soccerstarts 2.5 - 3.5 years This class is a bridge to support children when they move from toddlers age classes into the 3 to 5 years classes. 3 years- 5 years Mixture of parent participation activities and activities children encouraged to take part on their own. For age groups up to 12 classes do not require parent participation although parents are free to watch classes or take a well-deserved break. Parents recommended to stay to watch during the 4-5.5 years classes as children are still little and love their parents to watch how they are getting on at this stage. Full information on classes and booking can be found at soccer-starts.class4kids.co.uk

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Second-Hand | Children's Clothes | Shop & Sell Birth to 12 Years | Circular Living

Making quality clothing affordable Click & Collect or UK-Wide Shipping 6 Beaverhall Road, Edinburgh, EH7 4JE

www.worninwardrobe.com

Forth School of Music

Our highly-qualified and enthusiastic team deliver the majority of our individual lessons and group classes from our very own studio space on Newhaven Road. We offer 1:1 lessons in piano, voice, guitar, bass guitar, ukulele, trumpet, music theory and violin. We also run a range of group classes throughout the week for both piano and singing Mini Musicians (age 3-4) Little Keynotes (age 4-5) Storytellers (age 6-10) Solfa (age 5-8) We are very excited to now be offering violin lessons on a Monday, and have also recently opened up spaces for trumpet and singing lessons. Visit our website to find out more. forthschoolofmusic.co.uk forthschoolofmusic.class4kids.co.uk

The Buggy Repair Centre Nestled on St Stephen St in Stockbridge, The Buggy Repair Centre has proudly served parents, grandparents, and caregivers since its establishment in 2010. With a reputation for excellence in cleaning and servicing buggies and prams, booking an appointment with us is a breeze—simply visit our website to secure your slot today. www.buggyrepaircentre.co.uk 13 St Stephen St, EH3 5AN. 0131 226 4141

Families Edinburgh 5

It's Santaaaaaaa! Family Feasting at Brewhemia

The Christmas Experience at Dynamic Earth

Every Sunday in December, enjoy a festive family feast at Brewhemia Edinburgh. Dine in one of our three decked-out areas from 12pm, we recommend one of our scrumptious Sunday roasts with all the trimmings, plus plenty of choices for the little ones. Santa will be upstairs in our very own Grotto for you and the family to visit after your lunch. Visit Brewhemia.co.uk/Christmas/ for more information. How to book: Select 'Dining' from 12pm (last visit to Santa 4.30pm), add to your booking comments 'Family Feasting' and how many children will attend.

Join a magical expedition through time, space and evolution to meet Father Christmas in his very own North Pole Grotto and receive a very special gift. Then soar amongst the stars in our Planetarium. From 1 - 23 December Book at dynamicearth.org.uk

Santa’s Grotto at Ocean Terminal

Bring the whole family to Village Ho-Ho-Hotel this festive season for Christmas with all the trimmings and all the fun! Sunday 10th December - Festive Family Lunch with Santa includes festive 2-course lunch, family disco and a visit from Santa £24.95 Adults £14.95 Kids £67.83 Family Christmas Day - enjoy a delicious 3-course Christmas dinner £75 Adults £37.50 Kids £202.50 Family Hogmanay Family Gala - bespoke Scottish 3-course dinner and live entertainment and DJ £65 Adults £32.50 Kids £175.50 Family Family bundle includes 2 adults and 2 children (3 to 12 years), under 2 years go free View our full calendar of events online, www.villagehotels.com/christmas

Brunch with Santa at Luckenbooths Get ready to jingle all the way to a magical morning with a scrumptious Brunch With Santa this year. It’s his busiest time of year, but he’s promised to leave the elves in charge and spend some time in Luckenbooths on the following dates: Sat 9th & Sun 10th December Sat 16th & Sun 17th December Sat 23rd December Bookings are now available between 9.30am and Midday and tickets are priced at £21.50 for adults and £15 for children. This includes a Brunch dish, a drink and chance for the little ones to meet Mr Claus himself, plus receive a little something to take away! So whether you’ve been naughty or nice this year, join us for our very first Sleigh Bell Brunches. We promise they’re a Claus for celebration! Book at: luckenboothsedinburgh.co.uk/brunchwith-santa-edinburgh

Visit Santa at OT this December for a magical festive experience! Santa is very much looking forward to seeing all the good girls and boys to find out what is on their Christmas wish list.. Tickets cost £5.50 per child and must be booked online in advance. This includes an age-appropriate gift plus you can take as many photos as you would like. Santa can’t wait to meet you! Book tickets and check dates at www.oceanterminal.com

FESTIVE PARTIES

AT VILLAGE HOTEL EDINBURGH

at Clambers, Scrambles and Tumbles soft plays. edinburghleisure.co.uk

Bring the whole family to Village Ho-Ho-Hotel this festive season for Christmas with all the trimmings and all the fun!

BOOK NOW!

FESTIVE FAMILY EVENTS From only £24.95pp

FIND OUT MORE AT VillageHotels.com/Christmas

Village Hotel Club Edinburgh 140 Crewe Rd South, Edinburgh EH4 2NY

6 Families Edinburgh

Call us on 0131 622 0405

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It's Santaaaaaaa! The countdown has begun to our Christmas fun-filled family events at The Centre, Livingston to raise funds for the children’s charity, CHAS. The ‘Elf Toddle Walk’ is back on the 19th November and for the first time ever, six ‘Breakfast with Santa’ events. Dressed in your favourite festive outfits, join us in a one-mile lap around the shopping centre, led by Santa’s elves, with lots of entertainment to help get the toddlers on their way, including acrobatic elves getting up to mischief and Christmas tunes by Go Radio and receive a special commemorative medal for taking part.

Santa’s list has been checked and you’re all officially invited! Make it a December to remember with our festive soft play parties at Clambers (the Royal Commonwealth Pool), Scrambles (EICA Ratho) and Tumbles at Portobello. Dance and prance to our jolly disco, make new friends with our Christmassy party games and unwrap your creativity with arts and crafts. You won’t find a Grinch at our parties – each child will leave with a celebratory gift! Prices: £9.00 for our soft play members; £13.00 for non-members; FREE for 0-11 months Book your space in-venue before they’re sold out! For more information, visit www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/soft-play

Tickets for the event, which starts at 8.30am are £5 per child, with all proceeds going to CHAS. Also, don’t miss out on the first-ever ‘Breakfast with Santa’ events which include a hearty buffet breakfast in The Wintergarden, a visit to see Santa in his Grotto and the chance to join in some festive fun activities, including party games. Tickets for the breakfast events on the 2nd & 3rd, 9th & 10th and 16th & 17th of December are £14.95 for children, which includes a present from Santa, and £10.95 for adults, with £3 from every ticket sold going to CHAS. All tickets can be booked at www.thecentrelivingston.com

Visit Santa at Traquair Christmas Opening 25th/26th November from 10.30am-4pm See Traquair, Scotland’s Oldest Inhabited House, beautifully decorated for Christmas. Visit Santa in his luxurious grotto and receive an early Christmas present! Entertainment for all with puppet shows, carol singers, and face painting, as well as hot food and drinks from the Old Walled Garden Café. The House will be full of local stalls selling gifts, festive crafts, and Christmas treats. Tickets available at www.traquair.co.uk

Breakfa st

Santa with

FIRST THREE IN WEEKENDS DECEMBER

Get ready to jingle all the way to a magical morning with our scrumptious

Sleigh Bells Brunch with Santa

n at our Join in the fu ents for CHAS v Christmas e

Scan here for more info SUN DAY OV

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9AM BER

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Email us - editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

9th & 10th Dec 16th & 17th Dec 23rd Dec for more information and to book a slot, please visit: luckenboothsedinburgh.co.uk

Families Edinburgh 7

Local Shopping and Gift Ideas Looking for the perfect present for family and friends this year that will be handmade and personal? Look no further, Doodles can help you make a unique gift for someone special. All ages and abilities welcome plus pet prints on request! Always advisable to book so please call us on 0131 229 1399. Please note Mon 18th will be the last day to guarantee items ready before Christmas, but the earlier the better!!

Part of the Capital’s festive calendar for 70 years It is just weeks away until Edinburgh Steiner School's magical Christmas Market welcomes the public through the campus gates. Brimming with creativity and handcrafted artefacts, it attracts some 2,000 people each year. The School in Merchiston, South Edinburgh, offers the 1,140 Hours Early Learning and Childcare programme in an effort to widen access to the internationally-renowned Waldorf educational approach. Two-thirds of proceeds from the fundraiser are going towards realising a purpose-built, architecturally childfriendly, building for 2 - 3.5 year olds within the protected conservation grounds. With delicious food, mulled wine, activities for little ones and grown-ups and independent stalls, the event will mark a milestone year with an 'Enchanted Forest' theme. Tickets to all activities can now be pre-bought online. Not able to make the 25th November? Still bag yourself a ticket for the raffle, with its incredible line-up of prizes. See the full programme to spot the gems you like at edsteiner.org/Christmas-Market.

Voxblock Immerse young minds in a world of stories with Voxblock, the screen-free audiobook player for kids aged 3-12. Designed for children, with no grownups needed, simply pop in the audiobook, press play and go! • There’s no need for connectivity, downloads or set-up, Voxblock is ready-to play straight from the wrapping paper! • Voxblock has a library of hundreds of audiobooks, including favourites like Paddington and Alice in Wonderland • Voxblock was named the Best Kids Audio Player or Ease of Use by The Independent and The Evening Standard and is rated “Excellent”on Trustpilot Voxblock is the gift that will both keep kids entertained and build literacy skills for years to come. Begin with a Voxblock Starter Pack, which includes a Voxblock player, three stories, and a protective bumper for £59.99. Buy at voxblock.co.uk

A gift experience is a fantastic Christmas present for a loved one! Here at ESFW, we are incredibly passionate about teaching the next generation of foodies. Our hands-on Cookery Sunday classes are aimed at kids aged 8+ and run from 2pm – 5pm. They will cover three dishes in their time with us, all food can be eaten here or taken home to be shared with family.

Traquair Christmas Opening 25th/26th November 2023 10.30am-4pm See Traquair, Scotland’s Oldest Inhabited House, beautifully decorated for Christmas. Visit Santa in his luxurious grotto and receive an early Christmas present! We have entertainment for all with puppet shows, carol singers, and face painting, as well as hot food and drinks from the Old Walled Garden Café. The House will be full of local stalls selling gifts, festive crafts, and Christmas treats. Tickets available from end of October at www.traquair.co.uk

Check out our Kids Christmas Gift Pack www.esfw.com/product/kids-christmas-pack

info@esfw.com

Christmas Market From November 18th Wander through the Artisan Christmas Market on George Street West. Local producers Local Motive will also bring their Ethical & Scottish Christmas Fair to Castle Street from 18 November to 24 December.

Are you saying no to ultra-processed foods? Choose from hundreds of wholesome, organic, delicious and nutritious minimally-processed and healthy wholefoods.

call us on 0131 229 1399 to book your festive painting session pottery painting fun birthday parties unique gifts for all occasions baby hand & footprints clay imprints take home kits vouchers 100s of colours to choose from 8 Families Edinburgh

NEW EXPANDED PREMISES

37 Broughton Street EH1 3JU

www.doodlescotland.co.uk

& 8 Brougham Street EH3 9JH

27-29 Marchmont Cres EH9

www.realfoods.co.uk

£20 deposit required when booking

natural healthy ethical shopping •

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The Snow Queen Following classic Christmas production of An Edinburgh Christmas Carol the Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh presents a brand new adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen's The Snow Queen for Christmas 2023. When the beautiful and fearsome Snow Queen steals young Kei away to her frozen kingdom, she leaves behind the brave and brilliant Gerda, an Edinburgh lass who will stop at nothing to rescue her best friend. But the Snow Queen has lodged shards of her magical ice into Kei’s heart, turning him cold and mean. Can Gerda, with the help of friends she meets along the way, track her pal through the magical, wintery world of the Snow Queen and melt his frozen heart before it’s too late? Join us for a beautiful, festive and musical adventure as we follow young Gerda on her quest to save Kei, and the world, from an eternal winter. Snow, songs, ice palaces, and a dazzling pink unicorn awaits! 23 November - 31 December lyceum.org.uk ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Unicorn Christmas Party The Studio Magical unicorns Melody and Luna bring a little winter sunshine, moonlight, good times and a lot of boogie into everyone’s lives, with easy-to-follow dance moves and a soundtrack of Christmas hits. 8 to 24 December 10.30am and 1.30pm capitaltheatres.com

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Christmas Shows & Experiences

Cinderella Hop Scotch Theatre & Brunton Theatre Trust Cinderella receives an invitation to Prince McCharming’s royal birthday party, but with her step-siblings Hackit and Glackit, the so-called fungal sensations vying for the royal Tik Tok star’s hand in marriage, they stop at nothing to keep Cinderella locked away. After a brief encounter between Cinderella and the Prince, he vows to search the kingdom for his one true love. Cinderella brings a refreshing, exciting and hilarious tale to life through nail-biting adventure, original music and magical moments which provide everything you could expect from pantomime and more! Enjoy festive panto fun for all ages! FESTIVE PANTO FUN FOR ALL AGES! 20 – 30 December 23 December 2pm: BSL interpretation 28 December 3pm: Audio described 29 December 11am: Relaxed performance £16 (£14) / £56 family of 4 with at least 1 child Relaxed performance £14 all tickets thebrunton.co.uk

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by RACHEL HUGGINS and CORRINA HEWAT

DECEMBER 2023

@dragon_song_productions

3RD IN THE DRAGON TRILOGY

book tickets at:

www.DragonSongProductions.co.uk

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LifeCare Stockbridge 2 Cheyne Street, EH4 1JB

Families Edinburgh 9

Christmas Shows & Experiences Ice Dragon is the third in Dragon Song Productions trilogy We are thrilled that all the dragons were available to make an appearance, as well as some beautiful new forest friends. The new show Ice Dragon tells the tale of an egg which was found in the forest. Each dragon takes a turn to ensure the egg is returned to its home, but where will that be? Our young audience helps throughout the production and has a show-bag to accompany them on their journey with the dragons; full of dressing up, sensory lights, percussion instruments and props to help tell the tale. Tickets are priced at £8.50 for adults and children and everyone attending must have a ticket. Box Office - www.dragonsongproductions.co.uk Held throughout December at LifeCare, 2 Cheyne Street, Stockbridge, EH4 1JB. Dragon Song Productions have an exclusive baby show and there are mixed age show for children 6 and under. Nursery and group bookings are also available. Please contact rachel@dragonsongproductions.co.uk for further details.

Edinburgh International Magic Festival Share the magic this Christmas and marvel at fascinating illusions with your friends and family! We have a packed schedule of jawdropping magic shows. The Scottish Storytelling Centre hosts the best of Scottish family magicians. Gary James (Wonderland), Tricky Ricky (Festive Fun) and Gary Dunn (Jokes & Tricks) present high hilarity performances, packed with participation and wonder – a great incentive to get out the house and into town after Christmas. Straight from sell-out shows at Edinburgh and in Australia, Kevin Quantum returns with his ‘Christmas Special’, a high-energy, wonder-packed full evening show for the whole family at the Church Hill Theatre. Join Kevin and special guest contemporary conjuror Oliver Tabor for a magical night out, with big laughs, amazement and adventure! Take part in Street Magic Master Class in partnership with Wonder & Co. Explore the workings of magic and of the most creative minds in the world of magic with Professor Richard Wiseman. Watch the world’s first ever meta magic show with illusionist (and theatre professor) Vincent Gambini that deconstructs the very nature of magic – before building it all back together for a quite spectacular finale. Witness the Future Magicians in the making with MagicFest mentoring programme for young magicians. And much more! 20-31 December Check out the full line up and book tickets at www.magicfest.co.uk. ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan Festival Theatre With amazing special effects, stunning sets, beautiful costumes and barrel-loads of laughter, The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan is a brand-new adventure for Christmas 2023. Returning for another year to the Festival Theatre, are pantomime favourites Allan Stewart, Grant Stott and Jordan Young. 25 November to 31 December capitaltheatres.com

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Castle of Light Prepare to be transported to a world of wonder and enchantment, as Edinburgh Castle undergoes a magical transformation this November. Castle of Light returns and now in its fourth spectacular year. This year’s spellbinding show will unveil an all-new illuminated story of legendary creatures and grand illusions throughout the castle. Don’t miss the chance to encounter Rex the lion, your magical guide, in the magnificent Great Hall. With lots of enchanting sights, delightful food & drink on offer, Castle of Light: Magic & Mystery promises to illuminate your winter nights and provide cherished moments with friends and family. Prices from £12 per child and £22 per adult. With family tickets and Historic Scotland members' discount available. 23 November - 3 January 2024 To book tickets visit: castleoflight.scot

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ HOPSCOTCH THEATRE IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE BRUNTON

20-31 DEC 2023 MAGICFEST.CO.UK

Share the Magic! FESTIVE PANTO FUN FOR ALL AGES! LORETTO SCHOOL THEATRE, MUSSELBURGH

10 Families Edinburgh

Call us on 0131 622 0405

20-30 DECEMBER 2023 TICKETS thebrunton.co.uk 0131 653 5245

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Christmas at the Botanics Christmas at the Botanics has everything you need for an unforgettable time with friends and family, including a magical glimpse of Father Christmas along the way. Discover huge seed heads floating high into the sky, a lawn of larger-than-life crocus glowing in the dark, brightly coloured pampas, sparkling tunnels of light and the Inverleith House projections with a botanical theme filled with all the colours of the rainbow, just some of the new displays to see this year. 16 November - 30 December www.rbge.org.uk/whats-on/christmas-at-the-botanics-2023 ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Winter activities at the Palace of Holyroodhouse Get creative this winter at the Abbey Strand art club. On 11 November explore life at the court of Mary, Queen of Scots through a variety of crafts including paper ruff-making and creating sweet-smelling pomander bags. In a Christmas-themed art club session on 2 December, enjoy the festive decorations in the Palace of Holyroodhouse, before making some decorations of your own to take home. Royal Rhyme Time on 4 December is the perfect way to start the Christmas celebrations with your toddler as we explore this special season through interactive storytelling, songs and rhymes. On 16 December join us for a special Christmas activity day for the whole family to enjoy with Christmas crafts and musical performances. Come back again for free by converting your ticket to a 1-Year Pass. For full details of upcoming events please visit www.rct.uk/whatson ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride Edinburgh This November and December join us on board THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride Edinburgh. Arriving for the first time at Waverley station, from the team behind the hugely successful event at Wensleydale Railway, South Devon Railway and Spa Valley Railway. This officially licensed experience sees The Polar Express™ arrive in the Scottish capital! The experience enjoyed by thousands across the UK now has a new home, bringing a magical Christmas tale to a beautiful historic city. Our fully immersive theatrical event lets you and your family, from little ones to Granny and Grandpa, experience what it would be like to journey on board The Polar Express. 30 November - 22 December edinburghthepolarexpressride.com

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Christmas Shows & Experiences

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OUT&ABOUT We LOVE sharing everything that is going on in and around Edinburgh with you every issue but please remember to check with the venue before setting out just in case anything has changed. All details are correct at the time of going to print but as we've all learnt over the last couple of years - things can change!

NOVEMBER Wednesdays until December 20 Magic Carpet Minis 10:30 & 2pm. £15 per child for block of 3 Magic Carpet Minis introduces you and your little one to some of the wonderful galleries, objects and themes in the museum in a fun and gentle way. Book now nms.ac.uk/magic-carpet-minis Fridays Friday Friends Selected Friday afternoons 2 - 4pm. Free, pre-booking required A welcoming space for visually impaired and D/deaf children and their families. Groups meet monthly and explore the themes of the museum through objects, music, art and activities. Find out more nms.ac.uk/friday-friends Fridays during term time Family Fridays National Gallery.10am–12noon (ages 0–3) 2–4pm (ages 4+) Free, drop-in. Every Friday during termtime we dedicate our new gallery spaces to families! Friday mornings are for our littlest artlovers. Expect interesting textures, lights, sounds, sensory art-fun … and a cuppa for the parents/carers. The afternoons are for the big kids! We’ve got trails, new play activities and, of course, hands-on making with artists. 5 November Sensory Friendly Sundays for families (autism and learning disability friendly) 10.30–11.30am. Free. Booking essential via nationalgalleries.org Take part in a sensory-friendly morning at the Portrait Gallery. These regular, relaxed, Sunday mornings are for children with additional support needs, including autistic children and those with learning disabilities.

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Great Big Birthday Party Guide Book now - 0131 622 0405 editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk 12 Families Edinburgh

6 November BYOB (Bring Your Own Baby/Bump) National Gallery, Free - no booking required. 10:15am, 11am & 11:30am Join us for informal art chats in the gallery. These babes-in-arms gallery tours are perfect for new, and expectant, parents/ carers. Take part in a tour and stay for a free tea or coffee in our learning space and a play for your wee one. 11 November Abbey Strand Art Club 1.30 - 3pm at the Palace of Holyroodhouse Explore life at the court of Mary, Queen of Scots through a variety of crafts including paper ruff-making and creating sweet-smelling pomander bags Come back again for free by converting your ticket to a 1-Year Pass. For full details of upcoming events please visit www.rct.uk/whatson 11 November Art Stomps | Winter Modern One. 11am & 11:45am. Free Booking essential via nationalgalleries.org Indoor art stories and feel-good artmaking for wee ones aged 2–5 and their grown-ups.

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16 November - 30 December Christmas at the Botanics A magical trail with after dark festive fun. Christmas at the Botanics has everything you need for an unforgettable time with friends and family, including a magical glimpse of Father Christmas along the way. For booking and more information go to: christmasatthebotanics.seetickets.com/r aymondgubbay/christmas-at-thebotanics 19 November Trad Tunes for Bairns’ Family Concert 10:00 - 11:00am Aimed at wee ones aged 0-12, (and their accompanying adults), a fantastic hour of dancing, and the chance to sing along to some of their favourite songs with your wee ones, is guaranteed! scotsfiddlefestival.com

19 November Elf Toddle Walk Fun-filled family events at The Centre, Livingston to raise funds for the children’s charity, CHAS. Dressed in your favourite festive outfits, join us in a onemile lap around the shopping centre, led by Santa’s elves. Find out more about this event and also Breakfast with Santa (2, 3, 9, 10, 16 & 17 December) via thecentrelivingston.com

23 November - 31 December The Snow Queen Following classic Christmas production of An Edinburgh Christmas Carol the Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh presents a brand new adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen's The Snow Queen for Christmas 2023. Join us for a beautiful, festive and musical adventure as we follow young Gerda on her quest to save Kei, and the world, from an eternal winter. Snow, songs, ice palaces, and a dazzling pink unicorn awaits! Book at lyceum.org.uk

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OUT&ABOUT 25 November - 31 December The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan Festival Theatre With amazing special effects, stunning sets, beautiful costumes and barrel-loads of laughter, The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan is a brand-new adventure for Christmas 2023. Returning for another year to the Festival Theatre, are pantomime favourites Allan Stewart, Grant Stott and Jordan Young.

24 November - 3 January 2024 Castle of Light This year’s spellbinding show will unveil an all-new illuminated story of legendary creatures and grand illusions throughout the castle. Don’t miss the chance to encounter Rex the lion, your magical guide, in the magnificent Great Hall. With lots of enchanting sights, delightful food & drink on offer, Castle of Light: Magic & Mystery promises to illuminate your winter nights and provide cherished moments with friends and family. Prices from £12 per child and £22 per adult. With family tickets and Historic Scotland members' discount available. To book tickets visit: castleoflight.scot. 25 November Curiosity Club 10:30 – 12:00 £10 (Members and Concessions £9) Unleash your creativity and curiosity topic each month, we’ve captured some of the museum’s most exciting and child friendly collections and themes, for kids to explore through games, activities, and visits to some of our most interactive galleries. Book now nms.ac.uk/curiosityclub 25th November Edinburgh Steiner School Christmas Market Part of the Capital’s festive calendar for 70 years With delicious food, mulled wine, activities for little ones and grown-ups and independent stalls, the event will mark a milestone year with an 'Enchanted Forest' theme. Tickets to all activities can now be prebought online. See the full programme at edsteiner.org/Christmas-Market.

25 & 26 November WOW! Said the Owl 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3pm. The Studio WOW! Said the Owl, the acclaimed children’s book by award-winning author, Tim Hopgood, is brought to life through a blend of beautiful storytelling, puppetry and music. Directed by Joy Haynes, this show will delight and excite very young audiences.

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25 November Your Art World Modern One 11am - 12:30pm. Free Booking essential via nationalgalleries.org Keen to get creative? Our artist duo have some creative games up their sleeves to encourage your family to experiment, play with ideas and materials in the gallery. 25 & 26 November Traquair Christmas Opening 10.30am - 4pm. See Traquair, Scotland’s Oldest Inhabited House, beautifully decorated for Christmas. The House will be full of local stalls selling gifts, festive crafts, and Christmas treats. Tickets available at www.traquair.co.uk

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26 November St Andrew's Family Ceilidhs A choice of 12.00-1pm, 1.30-2.30pm or 3pm-4pm The Counting House Ballroom 34 West Nicolson St, Edinburgh EH8 9DD Wear tartan if you wish! Suitable for even the smallest dancers – aimed at families with children ages 3-9 but all welcome. Please email ceilidhkids@ceilidhkids.com to book your place, letting us know how many people and for which session. 29 November Traditional Tunes for Tiny People: St Andrew’s Special 11:00-11:40 &14:00-14:40 Level 1, Kingdom of the Scots Gallery. Free, booking required Through fiddle, accordion, and voice, Roo and Neil will lead an interactive and fun performance, specially designed to introduce traditional Scottish tunes, stories and songs to young children and their families. Book now nms.ac.uk/traditional-tunes-st-andrews 30 November - 22 December The Polar Express Train Ride Edinburgh The experience enjoyed by thousands across the UK now has a new home, bringing a magical Christmas tale to Edinburgh. Our fully immersive theatrical event lets you and your family, from little ones to Granny and Grandpa, experience what it would be like to journey on board The Polar Express. edinburghthepolarexpressride.com

SOCCERSTARTS FOOTBALL ACADEMY PROVIDES: • Football skills classes for children from walking to 12 years old • All classes aim to develop your child's movement and football skills • Fun activities, games and exercises • Classes in Edinburgh and Musselburgh

Book via soccer-starts.class4kids.co.uk

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Families Edinburgh 13

OUT&ABOUT 4 December BYOB (Bring Your Own Baby/Bump) Modern Art Gallery. FREE, no booking 10:15am, 11am & 11:30am Join us for informal art chats in the gallery. This month we will enjoy some of the most inspiring artworks of Conversations with the collection. 30 November - 20 December Ice Dragon Ice Dragon is the third in Dragon Song Productions trilogy. We are thrilled that all the dragons were available to make an appearance, as well as some beautiful new forest friends. For times, dates and booking go to dragonsongproductions.co.uk

DECEMBER AS SEEN ON

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

DISCOVER RUGBYTOTS Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. For more details, just call or email:

1 - 24 December Santa’s Grotto at Ocean Terminal Visit Santa at OT this December for a magical festive experience!Santa can’t wait to meet you! Book tickets and check dates at www.oceanterminal.com

0345 313 3252 kirsty@rugbytots.co.uk

1 - 23 December The Christmas Experience at Dynamic Earth Join a magical expedition through time, space and evolution to meet Father Christmas in his very own North Pole Grotto and receive a very special gift. Then soar amongst the stars in our Planetarium. Book at dynamic earth.org.uk

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2 December Abbey Strand Art Club 1.30 - 3pm at the Palace of Holyroodhouse Enjoy the festive decorations in the Palace of Holyroodhouse, before making some decorations of your own to take home. Come back again for free by converting your ticket to a 1-Year Pass. For full details of upcoming events please visit www.rct.uk/whatson

make this Christmas special

2 & 3, 9 &10, 16 & 17 December Breakfast with Santa Includes a hearty buffet breakfast in The Wintergarden, a visit to see Santa in his Grotto and the chance to join in some festive fun activities, including party games. Find out more and book at thecentrelivingston.com

0131 554 6682 woggle@waterbabies.co.uk waterbabies.co.uk

Sundays in December Christmas at Brewhemia Dine in one of our three decked-out areas from 12pm.Santa will be upstairs in our very own Grotto for you and the family to visit after your lunch. Visit Brewhemia.co.uk/Christmas/ for more information.

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3 December Sensory Sunday: Arctic Animals 10:30-12:00. Level 4, Studio 2, Learning Centre. Free, booking required Explore the museum’s collections, get creative and meet other families. Sessions are relaxed, fun and hands-on, and respond to the needs of the families participating. We welcome all families who think they might enjoy these sessions Book now nms.ac.uk/sensory-sunday

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4 December Royal Rhyme Time: Festive fling 11 - 11.45 am at the Palace of Holyroodhouse The perfect way to start the Christmas celebrations with your toddler as we explore this special season through interactive storytelling, songs and rhymes. Come back again for free by converting your ticket to a 1-Year Pass. www.rct.uk/whatson

8 - 24 December Unicorn Christmas Party 10.30am and 1.30pm. The Studio Magical unicorns Melody and Luna bring a little winter sunshine, moonlight, good times and a lot of boogie into everyone’s lives, with easy-to-follow dance moves and a soundtrack of Christmas hits. 9 & 10 December Brunch with Santa (also 16, 17 & 23 December) Get ready to jingle all the way to a magical morning with a scrumptious Brunch With Santa this year. Find out more and book at luckenboothsedinburgh.co.uk/brunchwith-santa-edinburgh 9 December Art Stomps | Winter Modern One. 11am & 11:45am. Free. Booking essential via nationalgalleries.org Indoor art stories and feel-good artmaking for wee ones aged 2–5 and their grown-ups. 10 December Festive Family Lunch with Santa Includes festive 2-course lunch, family disco and a visit from Santa. Book at www.villagehotels.com/christmas 10 December A Family Edwardian Christmas at Lauriston Castle 10am - 1pm. Booking required edinburghmuseums.org.uk Join us for our annual Christmas event where you can capture the magic of Christmas past. With crafts, stories, and special tours. Have fun with the trail in our gardens. Includes a traditional magic lantern show.

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OUT&ABOUT 13 December (through to 2024) Artspace in the City Arts Centre Come and have fun in our family area in the Lower Ground Floor at the City Art Centre. Our activity area is packed full of art materials and worksheets relating to our exhibitions. We offer a warm and welcoming space for family groups to work creatively together and to stay as long as you like. Open daily 10am-5pm. 14 - 24 December Family Activity Area in Museum of Edinburgh Our activity area is packed full of art materials and worksheets relating to our galleries and amazing objects relating to the history of Edinburgh. We offer a warm and welcoming space for family groups to work creatively together and to stay as long as you like. Open daily 10am-5pm. 16 December Carols and crafts: Christmas activity day 10am - 3pm at the Palace of Holyroodhouse Join us for a special Christmas activity day for the whole family to enjoy with Christmas crafts and musical performances. Come back again for free by converting your ticket to a 1-Year Pass. For full details of upcoming events please visit www.rct.uk/whatson 16 December Your Art World Modern One. 11am - 12:30pm. Free. Booking essential via nationalgalleries.org Keen to get creative? Our artist duo have some creative games up their sleeves to encourage your family to experiment, play with ideas and materials in the gallery. 20 December Winter Wonders | A Christmas Concert for Wee ones Portrait Gallery 10:15am and 11:15am FREE, book via nationalgalleries.org Join us for a festive celebration of captivating Christmas tunes for tiny ears as we embark on a musical journey that will fill your little ones with wonder and joy. From jingling bells to frosty fun, each song will transport your child to a world of holiday magic 20 - 30 December Cinderella Hop Scotch Theatre & Brunton Theatre Trust FESTIVE PANTO FUN FOR ALL AGES! Cinderella brings a refreshing, exciting and hilarious tale to life through nailbiting adventure, original music and magical moments which provide everything you could expect from pantomime and more! 23 Dec 2pm: BSL interpretation. 28 Dec 3pm: Audio described. 29 Dec 11am: Relaxed performance £16 (£14) / £56 family of 4 with at least 1 child. Relaxed performance £14 all tickets 20 - 31 December Edinburgh International Magic Festival Share the magic this Christmas and marvel at fascinating illusions with your friends and family! Check out the full line up and book tickets at www.magicfest.co.uk.

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24 - 31 December Kevin Quantum Christmas Special with guests See real magic this Christmas at the Church Hill Theatre. For ages 5+ Straight from sell-out shows around the globe, magician Kevin Quantum and special guests are back with more astonishing illusions and big laughs in a riotously fun and magical Christmas show for the whole family! Trained by Penn & Teller, and having reached the final stages of Britain’s Got Talent, Kevin’s shows are a mix of amazement, laughter, audience participation and derring-do! After sell out shows last Christmas, we’re so excited to be back to fry your brains and unwrap the Christmas Special once again! For times, dates and booking go to magicfest.co.uk

28 December Gary Dunn Jokes & Tricks Scottish Storytelling Centre. For ages 5+ After the sell-out success of his show at the Glasgow Comedy Festival, Gary is coming to Edinburgh this December to amaze, astound and perhaps make you wee a little too! (Please bring spare pants - just in case!) For times and booking go to magicfest.co.uk

29 & 30 December Tricky Ricky Festive Funtime Scottish Storytelling Centre. For ages 4+ After sell-out performances last year, the Trickster returns with some more festive fun and lots of his puns in this “Festive Funtime Show” starring Jingles the Reindeer. Prepare to be amused and amazed in this fast paced and chaotic magic show It’s cabaret for kids and childish-grown-ups too! For times and booking go to magicfest.co.uk 31 December Hogmanay Family Gala Bespoke Scottish 3-course dinner and live entertainment and DJ. Family bundle includes 2 adults and 2 children (3 to 12 years), under 2 years go free. View our full calendar of events online, www.villagehotels.com/christmas

Christmas at the Palace of Holyroodhouse Join us for family events and activities throughout December

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Families Edinburgh 15

23 november – 31 december 2023

by Hans Christian Andersen ADAPTED by morna young

DIRECTED by CORA BISSETT

MUSIC COMPOSED by FINN ANDERSON

0131 248 4848 | lyceum.org.uk Royal Lyceum Theatre Company Ltd is a Registered Company No. SC062065 Scottish Charity Registered No. SC010509

Image Mihaela Bodlovic

Design www.MadeBy.DO

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