Real 40ft Christmas tree to return to City Square as more details revealed for Dundee's Christmas festivities

Dundee is set to sparkle this winter as the city unveils a packed programme of festive fun, heartwarming events and twinkling lights for Christmas 2025.

The celebrations begin on Saturday 16 November with the much-loved Christmas Switch-On, marking the return of a real 40ft Christmas tree as the centrepiece in City Square. The day will kick off with the popular Santa Dash at 10am, a lively 4k run through the city centre where hundreds of Santas will race to raise festive cheer.

From morning to night, the Switch-On will transform City Square into a hub of activity, featuring fairground rides, market stalls, street performers, and a brand-new 12-metre illuminated archway complete with acrobatic displays.

The Grinch, juggling elves and living lamp posts will roam the crowds, while live performances from Dundee Rep Theatre, Rock the Halls, Downfield Musical Society and more will fill the stage before Tay FM’s Gregor and Lynsey count down to the big moment when the city’s Christmas lights come alive.

Just a fortnight later, on Saturday 30 November, the Dundee Hooley will make a spirited return to celebrate St Andrew’s Day. With a special water theme honouring St Andrew the fisherman, Meadowside will come alive with music, dance, and colour. Acts include Ceol Dun Deagh, the Mad Ferret Band, and Seaword, while the Cask Strength Ceilidh Band will lead the traditional Scottish dancing to close the event.

Highlights include a torchlit parade, led by the Lord Provost, which will wind through the city from the High School of Dundee playground at 5:30pm, alongside giant illuminated puppets, fire performers, and walkabout entertainers.

From 4–31 December, the festivities continue with Christmas in the Square, organised by Hornes Pleasure Fairs. City Square will be transformed into a cosy winter wonderland, complete with rides, live music, market stalls, and an alpine bar - open daily from noon until late.

Adding a creative twist, the UNESCO City of Design Christmas Trees project will return from 12 November, showcasing four new sustainable designs made from recycled materials. These will stand proudly beside Dundee’s living Christmas Tree at the City Churches, celebrating creativity, community, and the city’s design heritage.

Speaking of the upcoming festivities, Dundee City Council leader Mark Flynn said:

“We’ve listened carefully to the people of Dundee and I’m delighted to hear about the fantastic Christmas offering we have planned, including the return of the traditional switch on event, with a real Christmas tree as the focal point.

“I look forward to attending the events planned and watching on as people enjoy all the festive period has to offer. Christmas is a time when Dundee’s community spirit shines brightest. Christmas in Dundee promises a magical experience for visitors and locals alike.”  

“We hope that these Christmas celebrations will be a real boost for the Dundee economy. Not only do they showcase the best of our city, they bring life and energy to the town centre and other shopping districts, providing a welcome lift for local traders. I would encourage everyone to consider shopping local this Christmas.” .”

The celebrations are also expected to boost local trade, with the Dundee Gift Card encouraging people to shop locally this Christmas. “These events not only showcase the best of Dundee, but they bring life and energy to our city centre, supporting local businesses during the busiest time of year,” added Cllr Flynn.