Capital plans festival 'sparkle'

The Sparkle into Christmas event runs from 26-29 November

Edinburgh's Christmas celebrations are to kick off with what organisers have described as four days of "festive magic".

The Sparkle into Christmas event from 26-29 November will see the Edinburgh Wheel start turning and the opening of the Highland Village and German Market.

The spectacular Homecoming 2009 Art Car Parade will also weave its way through the city on 28 November.

The festive programme will continue until 4 January.

Among the other attractions will be dancing fountains, a massive snow globe, balletic acrobatic displays performed inside a giant inflatable dome and appearances from electroglide angels and a realistic lifesize animatronic polar bear.

East Princes Street Gardens will host the Santa Weekend on the weekend of 12 and 13 December, highlights of which will be the Great Scottish Santa Run and The Royal Blind Children's Lantern Parade.

City of Edinburgh Council's Lord Provost, Councillor George Grubb, said: "Edinburgh's Christmas is a true highlight in our calendar and one which brings real economic benefit to Edinburgh in terms of retail and tourism.

"We look forward to welcoming people as they enjoy the extended programme of festivities within our unique and stunning surroundings."