In the heart of Cairngorms National Park, Aviemore is a magical Highland town that wins the hearts of travelers who visit during every season.
With the snow-capped mountains and Caledonian pine forests, Christmas is a wonderful time to visit Aviemore and there’s no shortage of things to do both in the town and the wider area.
Here are some of our highlights for Christmas 2024:
Meet Reindeer
Reindeer? In Scotland? Yep!
The Cairngorm reindeer herd has been roaming since 1952 and can be found on the Cairngorm Mountains with another set at Glenlivet Estate some 30 miles away.
A shop in Glenmore is open daily and guided hill trips are offered throughout the winter (weather permitting!)
From December 7th the Old Paddock area will be open where you can visit and see majestic, friendly creatures.
Who knows, you might even spot Rudolph!
Skiing and Snowboarding
Ok, not exclusively for Christmas, but snow is starting to fall across the Scottish resorts and Cairngorm Mountain will soon be open for business!
Cairngorm Mountain has been operating for 50 years and offers 30 km of ski runs.
Just 11km from the town of Aviemore, the resort will be opening for the snowsports season on Friday 20th December.
Perfect timing to get your runs in at Scotland’s favourite mountain destination and burn some precious calories before Christmas day!
Festivities at Macdonald Hotel Aviemore
Macdonald Resort Aviemore has an impressive array of festivities on offer this December with events throughout the month providing entertainment, food and drink.
On Saturday 14th December, VH5 Live are playing in what should be a night to remember. As well as enjoying one of Scotland’s most popular cover bands, a glass of bubbly is offered on arrival followed by a decadent buffet. Rates start from £49 and a range of accommodation offers are available.
Furthermore, festive afternoon teas and lunches are available at the resort throughout December with a Christmas Day Carvery or Gourmet Lunch offered on the big day itself.
Should you be in town after Christmas, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers come to Aviemore and a range of multi-night breaks are offered from Macdonald to see in 2025 with plenty of laughs.
Aviemore Christmas Parade
On Christmas Eve, the amazing and famous Aviemore Christmas Parade rolls into town.
Starting at 6 pm at the primary school and Aviemore health centre, the Christmas parade traverses throughout Aviemore town where VIPs such as Santa and his reindeer can be seen at the back of the entourage.
Expect fireworks, piping, and a mad finale outside the Cairngorm Hotel.
If you’re around Aviemore around Christmas Eve, try to avoid driving in the evening and instead enjoy the great Christmas vibes in this great Highland town.
Meet Mr and Mrs Clause
Got little ones?
Head to Highland Wildlife Park and you can meet Santa and his lovely wife (does anyone know her name!?)
Families will have a chance to meet the Clauses and take memorable pictures.
Take home a gift, make some arts and crafts, and explore the park.
Perfect for a family day out.
Oh, and there’s pancakes and you can even see a Polar Bear!
Santa Steam Trains
All aboard the Santa train! Head to the Strathspey Railway, the home of Highland Steam every weekend through December for an unforgettable journey.
Making its way through Cairngorm National Park with entertainment from the Christmas elves and Santa himself, the Santa Steam Trains make for a phenomenal family experience when visiting Aviemore throughout the festive season.
Children will receive a special festive bumper pack with gingerbread men, activity books, and the official railway bauble and pin badge.
Tickets come in a variety of classes and are dependent on lunch, afternoon tea, and table options.
Treat yourself! It is Christmas after all!
What are some of your favourite things to do in Aviemore at Christmas?
Let us know in the comments below!
