I run a stall at Scotland’s most popular Christmas market – people are always stunned by our prices, they queue for ages
EDINBURGH’S famous Christmas market is back – and a stall is causing a frenzy over its prices, for all the right reasons.
The much-loved festive extravaganza draws thousands of visitors to the capital every year.
And one couple are attempting to make it as affordable as possible for families to enjoy.
Stacey Patterson, 35, opened a brownie stall with her partner Connor last year, and has made a return for 2024.
Speaking to Edinburgh Live, she said: “In February we started the business and then we came to the markets last year. We were located at George Street and went absolutely viral – queues almost every day.”
The secret behind their success? £3 brownies. That’s even cheaper than a slab of salted caramel brownie from Costa Coffee, which costs £3.10.
While prices are often inflated at pop up stands, Stacey says she “prides herself” on keeping her items as cheap as possible.
So it’s not surprising that her stall has gone viral and she often has lengthy queues.
She added: “I really pride myself on my prices and they stay the same throughout the whole year.
“The Christmas markets can be an expensive time of the year and I want to be able to reach everyone. I charge £3 for a single brownie, £15 for six brownies and £4 for a brownie with sauce and cream.
“Our desserts are affordable for a single parent who doesn’t have a lot of money and also a child who only has a certain amount with them. We just don’t want anyone to miss out really.”
If you’re looking to pay a visit to Stacey’s Chock Shop stall, you’ll catch it at the Market Street entrance.
And since Edinburgh Market has recently been named as the most beautiful one to visit across all of Europe, it’s worth a trip.
Experts at print materials supply firm Solopress compared over 60 Christmas markets to reveal the most scenic options across the UK and Europe in 2024.
And Edinburgh claimed the title of Europe’s most beautiful Christmas market based on TikTok and Instagram posts.
The capital city came out on top with an impressive 2,738 TikTok posts and 55,304 Instagram hashtags celebrating its charm.
The city’s beloved Christmas Market returned last month, welcoming eager visitors back to its festive wonderland.
Against the iconic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, guests can enjoy dazzling light displays, nostalgic carnival rides, and cosy spots for mulled wine.
The firm behind Edinburgh’s famous Christmas market has promised a host of thrilling new features this year that are sure to get everyone into the festive spirit.
This much-loved attraction draws thousands of visitors to the capital every year, and this season event organisers are pulling out all the stops to bring even “more sparkle and joy” to Princes Street Gardens.
While the classic family favourites will come back, fresh and exciting additions are on the horizon.
As ever, the popular market stalls, Christmas Ferris Wheel, StarFlyer, Helter-Skelter and ice rink have all returned.
The Winter Warmer zone has also reappeared, along with the Winter Windows trail which will showcase festive artwork from local schoolchildren.
The latest addition to the event is the Christmas Tree Maze in St Andrews Square, where families can “lose themselves” among 450 illuminated Christmas trees.
And youngsters also have the exciting chance to meet Santa himself.
Culture and Communities Convener Val Walker previously said: “Edinburgh at Christmas is a magical experience, and it’s exciting to be announcing such a varied programme of events and attractions for 2024.
“We will see the return of many favourites like the Traditional Christmas Market, Santa Stories, and Big Wheel, as well as a brand-new Christmas Tree Maze in St Andrew Square!
“We want Edinburgh’s Christmas to be a welcoming and inclusive experience for everyone, and this packed programme has something for families and Christmas enthusiasts of all ages.
“We are especially proud of the opportunities it affords to raise funds for local charities.
“The free tickets donated to charities and community groups will help spread Christmas joy across the capital.
“We’re also looking forward to supporting other events in communities across the city.”