The heart of Perthshire truly began its festive journey as the charming towns of Blairgowrie and Rattray burst into a dazzling display of Christmas lights this past weekend. A collective spirit of joy and anticipation filled the air as residents and visitors gathered for an annual tradition that marks the unofficial start of the holiday season. The event, held on November 29, 2025, brought together families and friends from across the region for an evening filled with enchantment and community cheer.
The celebrations commenced in Rattray, where the central Wellmeadow area transformed into a bustling hub of activity. Numerous stalls offered festive treats and crafts, creating a vibrant Christmas market atmosphere. Local entertainers captivated the crowds with seasonal performances, setting a cheerful tone for the evening. A highlight for many of the younger attendees was undoubtedly the arrival of Santa Claus, who had the special honour of illuminating Rattray’s Christmas tree, much to the delight of the eager children gathered around.
Following the initial switch-on, Santa, riding in his magnificently illuminated sleigh, emblazoned with ‘Santa 1,’ took centre stage. He led a joyous parade through the streets of Rattray, with families lining the sidewalks, waving and cheering. The procession was a spectacle of sound and light, featuring the proud Blairgowrie and Rattray District Pipe Band. Dressed in their distinctive kilts, adorned with festive Christmas jumpers and Santa hats, the band’s stirring melodies echoed through the twilight, guiding the parade back towards Wellmeadow. The journey was a vibrant tapestry of community spirit, with onlookers bundled in warm coats, their faces lit up by the passing glow as the parade passed landmarks like the Angus Hotel.
Upon returning to Wellmeadow, the festivities continued with renewed vigour. The outdoor stage became a focal point for musical talent, with musician Carson Kidd delighting the audience with his acoustic guitar and soulful voice. His performance was complemented by carol singers, whose harmonious renditions of Christmas classics filled the square, encouraging everyone to sing along. The air was thick with the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, adding to the sensory richness of the experience. Meanwhile, Santa’s grotto, glittering with gold tinsel and fairy lights, proved to be a magnet for children, each one eager to meet Father Christmas and share their festive wishes. Youngsters like Annabelle, proudly sporting her festive hat, and Tynom, clutching a wrapped gift, shared special moments with Santa, creating cherished memories. Sophia, wearing a unicorn hat, and friends Willow and Oli were also seen receiving their presents, their smiles reflecting the pure magic of the moment.
As darkness fully embraced the evening, anticipation built for the main event: the switching on of the Blairgowrie Christmas lights. This significant moment was entrusted to a trio of esteemed community members: the citizen of the year, the young citizen of the year, and representatives of the community group of the year. With a collective pull on a large red lever, marked ‘Merry Christmas’ on its switch box, they brought the town’s central illuminations to life. The crowd erupted in cheers as hundreds of sparkling lights instantly transformed Blairgowrie into a breathtaking winter wonderland, a beacon of celebration for all to enjoy.
The dual switch-on events in Blairgowrie and Rattray underscored the powerful sense of community that thrives in this part of Perthshire. It was an evening where local talent shone, traditions were upheld, and new memories were forged. The collective effort of organisers, volunteers, and participants ensured a truly magical start to the Christmas season, reinforcing the bonds within the community. As the festive lights continue to sparkle across both towns, they serve as a warm invitation for all to embrace the joy and togetherness that defines this special time of year in Perth and Kinross.
The celebrations commenced in Rattray, where the central Wellmeadow area transformed into a bustling hub of activity. Numerous stalls offered festive treats and crafts, creating a vibrant Christmas market atmosphere. Local entertainers captivated the crowds with seasonal performances, setting a cheerful tone for the evening. A highlight for many of the younger attendees was undoubtedly the arrival of Santa Claus, who had the special honour of illuminating Rattray’s Christmas tree, much to the delight of the eager children gathered around.
Following the initial switch-on, Santa, riding in his magnificently illuminated sleigh, emblazoned with ‘Santa 1,’ took centre stage. He led a joyous parade through the streets of Rattray, with families lining the sidewalks, waving and cheering. The procession was a spectacle of sound and light, featuring the proud Blairgowrie and Rattray District Pipe Band. Dressed in their distinctive kilts, adorned with festive Christmas jumpers and Santa hats, the band’s stirring melodies echoed through the twilight, guiding the parade back towards Wellmeadow. The journey was a vibrant tapestry of community spirit, with onlookers bundled in warm coats, their faces lit up by the passing glow as the parade passed landmarks like the Angus Hotel.
Upon returning to Wellmeadow, the festivities continued with renewed vigour. The outdoor stage became a focal point for musical talent, with musician Carson Kidd delighting the audience with his acoustic guitar and soulful voice. His performance was complemented by carol singers, whose harmonious renditions of Christmas classics filled the square, encouraging everyone to sing along. The air was thick with the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, adding to the sensory richness of the experience. Meanwhile, Santa’s grotto, glittering with gold tinsel and fairy lights, proved to be a magnet for children, each one eager to meet Father Christmas and share their festive wishes. Youngsters like Annabelle, proudly sporting her festive hat, and Tynom, clutching a wrapped gift, shared special moments with Santa, creating cherished memories. Sophia, wearing a unicorn hat, and friends Willow and Oli were also seen receiving their presents, their smiles reflecting the pure magic of the moment.
As darkness fully embraced the evening, anticipation built for the main event: the switching on of the Blairgowrie Christmas lights. This significant moment was entrusted to a trio of esteemed community members: the citizen of the year, the young citizen of the year, and representatives of the community group of the year. With a collective pull on a large red lever, marked ‘Merry Christmas’ on its switch box, they brought the town’s central illuminations to life. The crowd erupted in cheers as hundreds of sparkling lights instantly transformed Blairgowrie into a breathtaking winter wonderland, a beacon of celebration for all to enjoy.
The dual switch-on events in Blairgowrie and Rattray underscored the powerful sense of community that thrives in this part of Perthshire. It was an evening where local talent shone, traditions were upheld, and new memories were forged. The collective effort of organisers, volunteers, and participants ensured a truly magical start to the Christmas season, reinforcing the bonds within the community. As the festive lights continue to sparkle across both towns, they serve as a warm invitation for all to embrace the joy and togetherness that defines this special time of year in Perth and Kinross.