Hundreds of free ride passes and charity boost have been unveiled for Dundee’s Christmas in the Square

A major package of community benefits is being rolled out as part of this year’s Christmas in the Square, delivered in partnership with Horne’s Pleasure Fairs.

The measures aim to ensure that families across Dundee can enjoy the festivities regardless of their circumstances, while also giving a boost to local traders and small businesses.

Christmas in the Square sits beside Dundee’s 40ft Christmas tree and offers a wide mix of seasonal attractions.

Visitors can enjoy affordable funfair rides, festive food and drink including an alpine bar, market stalls filled with gifts and crafts, and live musical entertainment throughout the month.

Around 150 free wristbands, providing two hours of unlimited weekday access to the carnival rides, will be distributed through targeted primary schools and the Dundee Carers Centre.

Free access sessions are also being offered to nursery groups and primary 1 to 3 classes, with booking details to be issued directly through schools and nurseries by the council and partner organisations.

Horne’s Pleasure Fairs have named Dundee Bairns as their official charity partner for this year’s event. As part of the partnership, 250 free ride tickets will be gifted to families supported by the charity.

Volunteers will also be collecting donations onsite, with additional donation tins placed at market stalls to help raise funds.

In a further commitment, the full rental income from four specially designated local stalls is being donated directly to Dundee Bairns, with those stalls made available to traders at reduced rates to encourage small business participation.

The event also marks the launch of a new Funhouse attraction built in Dundee by a local contractor, showcasing the firm’s ongoing ties to the city.

Horne’s Pleasure Fairs said that keeping Dundee’s communities at the heart of the event was essential, stressing their goal of ensuring all families have the chance to make festive memories together.

Dundee Bairns executive director Genna Miller expressed gratitude for the charity partnership, saying the support would help bring joy to children while raising vital funds for families most in need.

Christmas in the Square runs daily until 31 December from 12pm to 8pm, and until 9pm on weekends.