8 Magical sound and light shows in Scotland

With the cold and darker nights looming, the fun doesn’t stop after sunset. From October to January, Scotland’s attractions come to life with an array of colours, hosting spectacular sound and light shows. Whether you’re looking for ideas during your autumn or winter break or just a fun activity to do in the evening, here are some of the best sound and light shows to help add some extra sparkle to your trip to Scotland. 

  1. The Enchanted Forest Faskally Wood, Pitlochry

    The Enchanted Forest illuminating with colour

    When? 3 October – 3 November 2024 

    If you go down to the woods at night, you’re sure of a big surprise! Situated in Faskally Wood near Pitlochry, The Enchanted Forest is guaranteed to bring the wow factor. This year’s show, Symphony of Nature, celebrates the beauty of nature through a kaleidoscope of colour, dazzling lights and visuals, all choreographed against an original music score.  

    Once you arrive, follow the illuminated trail and enjoy the show at your own pace. If you love it so much, you can even go round again and again! The aroma from the nearby food stalls will certainly make you work up an appetite. Dig into a selection of goodies including wood-fired pizzas, fish and chips and toasted marshmallows with gluten free, vegan and vegetarian options also available. 

    Shuttle bus transfer is also available from Pitlochry’s town centre to Faskally Wood which runs throughout the evening. 

  2. GlasGLOW Glasgow Botanic Gardens

    GlasGLOW

    © GlasGLOW

    When? 25 October – 10 November 2024 

    Things are about to get spooky this Halloween at Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Dress up for the occasion and explore ten epic worlds from the Haunted Hoose and Boneyard to Carnevil. The question is, will you receive a trick or treat? 

    GlasGLOW is suitable for all ages, but younger visitors might want to skip Clowntown with an alternative route available for them to explore. To keep those rumbling tummies at bay, head to the Gourmet Street Food Village where hot chocolate and marshmallow skewers will go down a treat during the colder nights. 

    Accessibility is also at the heart of the event. Relaxed ASN sessions are available at selected times for anyone with a sensory issue, giving visitors a wee bit more peace and quiet at a reduced capacity with lower noise levels. 

  3. Illuminator: Night Trail Race Glen Tanar

    Glen Tanar Estate illuminating with colourful lights

    © Illuminator Run

    When? 26 October 2024 

    A light show with a difference. If you’re feeling sporty, race against your opponents around the stunning Glen Tanar estate, all aglow with bright and colourful light displays to see you across the finish line. Choose from 8 km, 15 km or challenge yourself to a 15-mile race. Make sure to wrap up warm with extra layers including hats and gloves, a waterproof jacket and a trusty head torch. 

  4. Winter, Wonder, Wander Duthie Park Winter Gardens, Aberdeen

    Winter, Wonder, Wander

    © Friends of Duthie Park

    When? 5 – 12 November 2024 

    Back for a second consecutive year is Winter, Wonder, Wander. Based at Duthie Park in Aberdeen, it is well-known for its impressive light displays and an opportunity to embrace the very best of autumn at night.  

    This popular event is soon to be another sell out, so make sure to snap up your tickets quickly! 

  5. Christmas at the Botanics Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

    A glowing tunnel filled with fairy lights at Christmas at the Botanics

    When: 21 November – 30 December 2024

    Discover a festive atmosphere in the Royal Botanic Garden. Take a wander along the illuminated trail where you’ll see colour changing light displays perfectly timed with instrumental music.  

    Complete your walk with a hot chocolate or toast marshmallows by the fire pit. If you’re feeling a bit more peckish, make sure to grab a bite to eat at one of the street food vendors. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Christmas light show without Santa making an appearance. Make sure to give him a wave! 

  6. Castle of Light Edinburgh Castle

    Castle of Light

    © VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

    When? 22 November 2024 – 4 January 2025 

    Celebrations are in store for a very famous attraction. Edinburgh Castle turns 900 in 2024 with a special birthday edition of the Castle of Light. The light show will take you on a journey back in time where you’ll discover what life was like in the city from the 12th century right through to present day. Expect to see colourful and creative light installations which tell historic tales through the exterior castle walls. 

    There will be special performances at a reduced capacity which will include a designated quiet space. British Sign Language interpreters and ear defenders will be provided to help manage noise levels. 

  7. Monteviot Lights Jedburgh, Scottish Borders

    Monteviot Winter Light Trail

    © Monteviot Lights

    When? 6 – 22 December 2024 

    Shining bright in the Scottish Borders is Monteviot Lights. Watch the gardens turn into a magical winter wonderland with twinkling lights and plant life decorated in jewel-like colour at every corner you turn. The 1.8 km trail which starts at Harestanes Visitor Centre will no doubt captivate young audiences as well as the young at heart. No trip to a Christmas light show is complete without some hearty local food and drink either so make sure to fill your boots. 

  8. Starry Nights at Dean Castle Dean Castle, Kilmarnock

    Starry Nights at Dean Castle

    © Starry Nights at Dean Castle

    When? 13 – 23 December 2024

    Helping to bring the magic of Christmas alive for the whole family is Starry Nights. This year, the outdoor immersive experience will take place at Dean Castle in Kilmarnock. Prepare to be dazzled with lots of surprises in store with an array of magical installations including The Starry Tunnel, Fenwick Fairies, the mischevious Grinch, Candy Cane Lane and Snowball Blizzard. Perfect for the young and the young at heart. Of course, it wouldn't be a light show without a pit stop for some hearty grub. Peruse around the Festive Food Village or enjoy a mulled wine round the campfire. The entertainment continues into the evening with a festive funfair filled to the brim with lots of family favourites.

    Beecraigs Country Park in West Lothian will also be getting into the festive spirit this year with their own Starry Nights illuminated experience, all aglow with festive lights and the chance to meet Santa.

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