Christmas at the Botanics returns with dazzling new spectacle

A magical festive trail has opened at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

Christmas at the Botanics will feature a gigantic dazzling display of lighting arches.

The installation – Aquastell – will change as people move around it, making it appear as if they are walking amongst shooting stars.

Other new immersive installations include Digital Rain, Fireflies in the Woods, and the Sea of Light festive finale – which features an “enchanting mix of sound and light that washes across the landscape in shimmering waves”.

Returning favourites include Christmas Cathedral, Fire Garden and, of course, a jolly visit from Santa.

Organisers said the event will have measures in place to ensure that visitors adhere to the Scottish Government’s coronavirus restrictions, including reduced capacity, a one-way system, and the mandatory wearing of face coverings in indoor areas.

Family fun: The event will run until January 2, 2022. ArtAV

Kari Coghill, director of enterprise and communication at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, said: “This year’s trail is one of the most spectacular yet.

“We are really looking forward to welcoming visitors to the garden over the coming weeks.

“Those who attend directly contribute to our wider work, with profits from ticket sales helping to support our vital research and conservation efforts in Scotland and around the world.

“At a time when the impact of the climate on biodiversity is high on the agenda globally, our work is more important than ever.”

Christmas at the Botanics is one of 14 outdoor illuminated trails staged across the UK by Raymond Gubbay Limited, a division of Sony Music.

It is presented in partnership with the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, with the trail created by Culture Creative.

The event will run until January 2, 2022.

For more information and tickets, click here.