Find special gifts, meet local makers and soak up the seasonal atmosphere at Christmas markets and shopping events across Angus.
Browse the beautifully curated Pavilion Gift Shop at Glamis Castle, with unique gifts, decorations, clothing, accessories, toys and Scottish produce to discover. Shoppers visiting on these dates can enjoy a 20% discount, alongside selected tasting sessions and a festive raffle in aid of Guide Dogs Scotland. Entry is free and advance booking is not required.
Discover handcrafted gifts from specially selected local makers inside the Coach House and Old Larder. Your admission also includes access to the gardens and grounds, while the Pavilion Gift Shop and Castle Kitchen Restaurant will be open for more shopping and refreshments.
Head to the courtyard at Signal Tower Museum in Arbroath for a pop-up Christmas market showcasing local businesses and suppliers. The free fayre runs from 11am to 3pm.
Browse a hand-picked collection of indoor stalls at Forbes of Kingennie, with pottery, art, jewellery and other local finds. Afterwards, enjoy a crisp countryside walk around the grounds before settling down for hearty food beside the fire. Entry is free.
Meet Santa, journey to the North Pole and step into sparkling winter worlds at these magical family events.
Climb aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Caledonian Railway in Brechin. Inspired by the much-loved story and film, the experience includes characters, dancing chefs, cookies, hot chocolate and a journey to the North Pole. Santa will join passengers on the return journey. Pyjamas are encouraged!
Enter an enchanted woodland at Brechin Castle Centre, where light, music and theatrical effects bring fairies, dragons and mysterious scenes to life. The trail culminates in a spectacular lake show featuring water jets, smoke, light and music.
Visit Santa in his greenhouse at Ashbrook Nursery, Arbroath, or join him for a special breakfast where each child will receive a garden-themed gift. The day also includes Christmas music, a festive trail and face painting, and the chance to choose your Christmas tree. Afterwards, families can explore the Woodland Wander and admire the festive displays around Ashbrook Nursery and Garden Centre.
Enjoy a festive breakfast and a special visit from Santa in the countryside at Peel Farm. These seasonal experiences take place on selected dates in the run-up to Christmas. While you are there, you can also explore the farm shop and gift shop or enjoy a winter walk along the nature trail.
Visit the beautiful House of Dun near Montrose for a festive encounter with Santa. The grotto takes place over the first weekend in December, making it a lovely addition to a winter visit to this historic estate.
Meet Santa in his grotto at Murton Farm, or get busy in Santa’s Workshop by building a wooden snowman, creating jingle bells and visiting the craft station. Santa and his helpers will be on hand throughout the activity, and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Available on selected dates in December.
Wrap up warm and step into the enchanting Christmas Tree Maze, where twinkling lights, the wonderful scent of fresh evergreens and Santa’s cheerful elves will lead you on a festive adventure. Enjoy a festive family visit to Charleton Farm, near Montrose, with an opportunity for children to meet Santa in his grotto or during a special breakfast on selected dates.
Choose between a traditional meeting with Santa or a mischievous encounter with the Grinch at Monikie Country Park. Every child will receive a gift to take home, whichever festive character they decide to visit.
Meet Santa and enjoy live entertainment from the Magic Jester at Kingennie’s Jingle Bell Party! Morning sessions include pancakes for children and bacon rolls for adults, while afternoon visitors can enjoy pizza, coffee and homemade traybakes. Children will also receive a special gift from Santa.
Start the day with a traditional Scottish breakfast in the Castle Kitchen Restaurant at Glamis Castle. Children can meet Santa and will receive a wrapped selection box to take home.
Oh yes it is! Pantomime season brings colourful characters, catchy songs, spectacular costumes and plenty of audience participation to theatres and community halls across Angus.
The classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge receives the traditional pantomime treatment at Monifieth Theatre, with slapstick comedy, bangs, wallops and plenty of opportunities to join in.
Myth, fantasy and colourful characters combine in this winter wonderland pantomime at Carnoustie High School Theatre. Inspired by the classic fairy tale, the production promises fantastic music and traditional panto fun.
Journey to a frozen kingdom at Kirriemuir Town Hall, where Snow White must overcome Queen Malevolent’s wicked plans. Expect comedy, magic, colourful characters and plenty of snowy surprises.
Join Aladdin on an action-packed adventure at Montrose Town Hall. The Song Shop production brings together music, magical surprises and lots of opportunities to cheer the heroes and boo the baddies.
A tale as old as time comes to Brechin City Hall in a sparkling show filled with larger-than-life characters, traditional panto fun and plenty of laughs for the whole family.
Carmyllie Amateur Dramatic Society presents a lively community production packed with colourful characters, magical mayhem and plenty of laughs at Carmyllie Hall.
Follow Dick Whittington and Tommy the Cat as they attempt to defeat King Rat at Abbey Theatre in Arbroath. A relaxed, sensory-friendly performance will take place on Sunday 6 December.
Rub the lamp and prepare for big laughs, glittering costumes and a larger-than-life Scottish Genie at Arbroath’s Webster Memorial Theatre. Expect boo-worthy baddies, shout-along silliness and festive fun for every generation.
The giant panto you have “bean” waiting for comes to Forfar Reid Hall, complete with comedy, costumes, colourful scenery and plenty of boos and hisses.
Add a handmade touch to your celebrations at creative workshops taking place across Angus.
Learn how to create a unique needlefelted Christmas bauble at Glenesk Folk Museum. No previous experience is needed, all materials are supplied and you will leave with new skills and your own decoration.
Create a Christmas wreath inside the distillery at Angus Alchemy. Your ticket includes all materials, a welcome drink, mince pies and a cheese board, making this a cosy afternoon of creativity and festive cheer.
Professional florist Helen C Ormiston will help you create a bespoke wreath using natural materials at Glamis Castle. The workshops are suitable for complete beginners and experienced creatives, with all materials, tea, coffee and biscuits included.
Lynda Wallace from Olive’s Flower Shop will guide you through creating a handcrafted wreath using seasonal foliage, decorations and ribbons. Before the workshop, settle into The Scullery and enjoy a festive meal to make a night of it.
Decorate a Gin Bothy bottle while enjoying cocktails or mocktails at The Bothy Experience in Glamis. No artistic experience is needed, and you can take your finished creation home at the end of the evening.
Whether you’re looking to get creative, enjoy some festive fun with friends, or simply make something beautiful for your home this Christmas, ANGUSalive’s wreath making and festive decorations workshops are the perfect way to celebrate the season. Craft, create & get into the Christmas spirit!
Learn how to create an eye-catching Christmas wreath or table centerpiece at Ashbrook Nursery, Arbroath, with guidance and seasonal materials to help you make something special for your home.
Raise a glass, enjoy a seasonal meal or stock up on locally made treats at these food and drink events.
Sample seasonal flavours at The Bothy Experience and learn how to shake and stir your own festive cocktail. The experience includes a festive punch, several seasonal gin serves, expert guidance and an illustrated tasting mat to take home.
Gather with family, friends or colleagues for a two or three-course lunch in the Castle Kitchen Restaurant. Traditional turkey with all the trimmings is joined by roast beef, a vegan Wellington and seasonal desserts, with tea, coffee and mince pies included. Advance booking is required.
Shop for local produce and handmade gifts at Ballhouse Carpark in Montrose. The market brings together producers and crafters from across the area and is free to attend.
You will be met in the garden by the tumbling Christmas elf and Head Chef Mark Howard – he will lead you into dinner beneath the great arch and into the Music Room where the tables will be laid for the festive season. Advance booking is required.
Browse local food, drink and crafts at the indoor market in Forfar Community Campus. The venue offers plenty of parking, an adjacent bus stop, a café and accessible facilities.
Enjoy an afternoon of festive treats and artisan gin at The Bothy Experience in Glamis – an indulgent seasonal experience to share with friends or family.
With sparkling woodland trails, Santa visits, bustling markets, pantomimes, workshops and delicious seasonal experiences, there are plenty of reasons to enjoy Christmas in Angus.
Many activities have limited spaces and require advance booking, so remember to check the individual event pages for availability, prices and full visitor information before travelling.
Why not make a short break of it and give yourself more time to enjoy the festivities? From cosy bed and breakfasts and welcoming hotels to self-catering cottages, farm stays, caravan parks and glamping experiences, you will find places to stay in Angus for every type of winter getaway.
