The festive season may be drawing to a close, but 2026 is just around the corner, and the fun and excitement continues into January!
The Scottish capital is never short on things to do to occupy your time - from an inaugural winter jazz experience, theatre, comedy, and unique experiences all happening in Scottish capital, you can kick off your new year in style to make sure the winter blues are kept under wraps this month.
Bundle up with Edinburgh Trams to save on your tram travel with the ET App, and make your way to the heart of all the action in the new year!
Light up Winter Nights
Leith Winter Blues Weekend – Leith (16-18 January)
These are officially the only winter blues we want to experience this year! Get ready to embrace the first ever Leith Winter Blues Weekend as a number of venues across the lively Leith community welcome a line-up of local and international blues artists.
The weekend is expected to be full of unforgettable live performances that’s sure to warm you up this frosty season. Plus, you’ll be supporting the local community – what’s not to love?
Closest tram stop: Various stops (Balfour Street – Port of Leith)
Edinburgh Zoo’s Giant Lanterns – Edinburgh Zoo (until 22 February)
The underwater themed light trail continues to light up Edinburgh Zoo this month, offering visitors a glowing experience with spectacular lantern displays after dark. This is the first year the trail has been welcomed back since 2019, so don’t miss out the chance to experience it in all its glory before its gone!
Closest tram stop: Balgreen
Unique Burns Night Experience at the Museum
Museum Late: Big Burns Ceilidh – National Museum of Scotland (23 January)
The much-loved and sellout Big Burns Ceilidh returns in 2026 at the National Museum of Scotland. Expect to be twirling through the Grand Gallery as you take on classic traditional dances such as Strip the Willow and Dashing White Sergeant, accompanied by music from Jacobites Ceilidh Band.
Plus, you’ll get access to a selection of galleries after dark and Burns-themed activities. It’s a lively cultural night out in the heart of the Scottish capital that you won’t want to miss. Plus, why not try catch the National Museum of Scotland's very own Museum tram that is already gliding across the city to get you there?
Closest tram stop: Princes Street
Highlights at Edinburgh Playhouse and Festival Theatre
MAMMA MIA! – Edinburgh Playhouse (until 4 January)
The feel-good musical based on ABBA’s greatest hits continues its run at the Edinburgh Playhouse. Packed with sunshine filled hits and irresistible dance numbers, it’s the perfect new year treat to beat those post festive season blues.
Closest tram stop: Picardy Place
Jack and the Beanstalk – Festival Theatre (until 11 January)
Not ready to let go of the festive panto season just yet? Well, you’re in luck as Jack and the Beanstalk is at the Festival Theatre until 11 January to keep the feel-good family fun going all the way in the new year. Oh yes it is!
Closest tram stop: St Andrew Square
The Rocky Horror Show – Edinburgh Playhouse (6-10 January)
Get ready to do the Time Warp again as the legendary rock ‘n’ musical takes to the stage at the Edinburgh Playhouse. Australian superstar Jason Donovan will be reprising his iconic role as the fascinating Frank-n-Furter - this is a show-stopping performance you won’t want to miss!
Closest tram stop: Picardy Place
Rob Beckett: Giraffe – Edinburgh Playhouse (15 January)
For one night only, Rob Beckett brings his hilarious new stand-up show, Giraffe, to the Edinburgh Playhouse. The show is going worldwide, so this is your one chance to see the show in Edinburgh, which promises to, “leave you happier than when you arrived”.
Closest tram stop: Picardy Place
Fawlty Towers: The Play – Edinburgh Playhouse (27-31 January)
Experience classic British comedy brought to life on stage. Fresh from a record-breaking season in London, the sold-out West End show is coming to Edinburgh for a five-day run. It’s the “comedy event of the year” – so don’t miss out!
Closest tram stop: Picardy Place
Edinburgh has plenty on offer this month to banish the winter blues. Plan your travel in advance and glide across the city and beyond this January.
