Dundee Christmas festivities announced for 2026 with switch-on that could feature spectacular drone light show

Last year’s switch on event in City Square was a huge success (Picture: Kuljit Athwal)

Dundee’s Christmas celebrations could take to the skies this year, with plans emerging for a drone light show as part of the city’s Christmas Switch-On.

Dundee City Council has issued a tender for a drone display which, subject to the procurement process, could form part of the Christmas Switch-On celebrations on Sunday, November 15.

It would be a major new addition to Dundee’s festive programme and follows the success of last year’s revamped Christmas Switch-On, which attracted thousands of people into the city centre.

The 2026 event will once again feature a Christmas market, funfair rides, live music, street performers, food and drink, a craft tent and an appearance from Santa before Dundee’s Christmas lights are switched on.

Hundreds of festive runners are also expected to descend on the city centre earlier in the day for the return of the Dundee Santa Dash.

While the drone show has not yet been confirmed, the council says the proposed display has the potential to add an extra touch of festive magic to this year’s celebrations.

The festivities will continue two weeks later when the Dundee Hooley returns on Sunday, November 29, marking its fifth year.

This year’s Hooley will have a Dragons theme, bringing the legendary story of Martin and the Dragon to life through a theatrical programme of music, entertainment and family-friendly activities ahead of St Andrew’s Day.

UNESCO City of Design Dundee will also bring back its Designer Christmas Trees, which have become a familiar part of the city’s festive celebrations since first appearing in 2022.

By this Christmas, 17 designs will have been commissioned through the project, with the trees and their decorations created entirely from reused or recycled materials. They will once again stand alongside Dundee’s Living Christmas Tree at the City Churches.

Dundee City Council leader Cllr Mark Flynn said the council was delighted to confirm the programme and was looking forward to welcoming thousands of people back into the city centre.

He said: “Following the success of last year’s Christmas Switch-On, we’re looking forward to welcoming thousands of people back to the city centre to enjoy the celebrations and see the Christmas Tree lights switched on.

“The Dundee Hooley will once again be a highlight of the festive season, bringing people together to celebrate St Andrew’s Day with music, entertainment and plenty of community spirit.

“Christmas in Dundee is also a great opportunity to support our local businesses, attractions and the many community events taking place across the city and I hope everyone enjoys everything this year has to offer.”

More details are still to come, with the council and its partners working on the wider Christmas in Dundee 2026 programme.

Plans include a festive market in City Square alongside other seasonal activities, with further announcements expected in the coming months.