Edinburgh businesses get two-hour festive trading extension

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 26 Oct, 14:31 · Archive

Edinburgh councillors have approved a two-hour extension to operating hours for businesses during the festive season. The extended trading period runs from Friday, 18 December 2026 through Saturday, 2 January 2027, allowing businesses to stay open two hours later than their normal closing time. The extension is granted to accommodate larger crowds during Christmas and New Year.

The approval came at the Licensing Board meeting on 26 October 2026. The extension only applies if a licence holder's operating plan indicates they will take advantage of extended trading during the festive period; otherwise businesses must make a separate application specifying the days and hours they intend to trade. Councillor Cammy Day raised a question about whether the extension would apply to businesses with outstanding licence fee dues, but officers indicated they cannot apply a blanket policy and would consider sanctions on a case-by-case basis.

Edinburgh councillors approved a similar arrangement during the summer Fringe season from 7 August to 31 August, allowing city venues to extend their opening times by two hours during the festival.

How it is being reported

• Edinburgh's festive trading hours revealed as council gives go-aheadBusinesses will be allowed to stay open for longer to make the most of holiday shoppersEdinburgh Evening News · 26 Oct, 17:39
• Edinburgh businesses see two-hour extension to operating hours over festive periodThe vote took place at the Licensing Board meeting on October 26, 2026 where Councillors approved the plans.Edinburgh Live · 26 Oct, 13:58

In this story: Edinburgh · Edinburgh Licensing Board · Councillor Cammy Day

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