Santa helps to spread Christmas cheer at Craigmillar and Niddrie

The streets of Craigmillar and Niddrie were buzzing with festive cheer as the Community gathered for the annual Christmas lights switch-on.

It wasn't just about illuminating the streets; it was a full-blown celebration that brought together approximately 600 people, an event which is quickly becoming a must-attend event every year. The highlight of the night was a visit from Santa Claus and Mrs Claus, who handed out 500 gifts to local children. Many of which came from our annual Christmas appeal which helps to ensure that local children receive a present this Christmas.

Working in partnership with contractors and Community Partners we were not only able to arrange for Santa and Mrs. Claus to spread some cheer, but also give visitors the chance to walk donkeys, enjoy some hot food, jump on a bouncy castle and much more making the event a huge success and putting everyone in the festive mood.

Ciara Toland, Head of Communities for Places for People Scotland said: “Christmas is a time for Communities to come together and spread a bit of Christmas cheer. This time of year can also be particularly hard for many families as their bills go up and they want to do make sure their children have a nice Christmas. I hope that this event, and the wider support, will help to bring some much-needed joy.” 

This year the lights we were delighted to have Councillor Jane Meagher join us to switch the lights on. Commenting on the event Jane said: ““I’m hugely grateful to Places for People Scotland and everyone who has volunteered their time or funds to help make this event possible. Craigmillar and Niddrie are great Communities and events like this help to bring people together. It was an absolute pleasure to be invited along to switch on the lights, although it was clear I was upstaged by the more important guest, Santa!” 

The Craigmillar and Niddrie area recently saw significant disruption during bonfire night. Reflecting on this, Ciara Toland said: “I want to thank everyone who attended the switch on, our partners and local businesses working in the Community for helping to ensure that this event was a huge success. It’s heart-warming to see these combined efforts bringing some festive joy to the Community, and it is good that we can show the world what this Community is really like.”