There's so much to do in Aberdeen this Christmas, from fun family entertainment to sophisticated events to celebrate the festive season in style.
We've picked out a few of the best events and the festivities kick off with the annual Christmas Lights Switch On in Union Street, on Saturday 25th November.
During the event The Lord Provost will lead a parade, switching on each sparkling light as it passes underneath. The parade starts at 5.30pm and there will be street entertainment for the whole family from 5.15pm.
On Sunday 2nd December childrens and adults alike will be enchanted by the Santa Parade, where Santa and his reindeer will be joined by a pipe band, local mascots and entertainers for the walk to the Trinity Centre. There Santa will meet the children and they'll also be able to meet the reindeer. Pre-parade entertainment will also take place on Union Street at 11.45am.
The 9th December will see the beach front invaded by an army of Santas as the Aberdeen Santa Run kicks off from Pittodrie Football Stadium. The 6k race is hugely popular and children are welcome to join in.
Perhaps a more relaxed way of celebrating the festive season is the Get Oot & Aboot 50+ Christmas Tea Dance, which takes place in Aberdeen's iconic Beach Ballroom on 12th December.
For those looking to do a little Christmas shopping, The Scout Centre's Book Sale and Christmas Fair on Saturday 10th November is perfect, packed with a great selection of books, DVDs, CDs, gifts and toys. Shoppers could also head over to Airyhall Community Centre that same day, as over 25 crafters will be selling a great range of handmade items.
The festive spirit continues over at Gordon Highlanders' Museum from 13th - 17th November, where a giant Christmas Fayre will be held. Browse through gifts, stocking fillers, toys, books and much more. There will also be a be a special visit from Santa on Saturday 17th November.
A special Christmas March Hare Craft and Vintage Market will be held on Saturday 24th November, where shoppers can browse through a huge selection of stalls selling everthing from jewellery to handmade furniture. Christmas shoppers can also visit the Friends of Shepherds Nursery Christmas Fayre that day, where there will be a Santa's Grotto, homemade cakes, stalls and fun for all the family.
If you know of any other events please drop us a line to aberdeen@thebestof.co.uk and we will add them here and on our Events Page.
