Starting to think about the festive season? There is plenty to get you in the Christmas spirit in Devon.
You can find holiday cheer along with unique and thoughtful gifts for your loved ones at Osborne Christmas Gift & Craft Fair, Bovey Tracey’s Festive Fridays, and the magic of Christmas at Paignton Zoo.
On top of this, Newton Abbot Town Council is holding a range of festive events, plus late night shopping on Wednesdays in December.
Osborne Christmas Gift & Craft Fair & Santa’s Grotto
Get into the festive spirit and join us on Sunday December 15 for the return of our much-loved Osborne Christmas Gift & Craft Fair! A perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in holiday cheer while discovering an array of unique, handcrafted treasures. From exquisite gifts to charming stocking fillers, you will surely find something special for everyone on your Christmas list.
As you wander through the beautifully decorated stalls, soak in the delightful seasonal atmosphere, complete with twinkling lights and the sounds of Christmas. Our festive treats will warm your heart and stomach, with tempting indulgences like mince pies and gingerbread to accompany a glass of hot mulled wine.
Located in the stunning grounds of Osborne, you’ll be treated to breath-taking sea views as you shop, making this a truly magical way to spend a winter’s day. Whether you’re looking for a thoughtful gift or simply wish to embrace the holiday spirit, our fair offers something for all.
Don’t forget the little ones, we have something special for them too! Santa’s magical Library Grotto is ready to welcome little ones! Join us from 11am to 3:30pm (with a “milk & cookies” break at 1pm). Each child meets Santa and receives a special gift! £6 per ticket, with a portion going to Rowcroft Hospice.
Booking only at https://www.osborne-torquay.co.uk/.
Bovey Tracey Businesses Host a Month of Festive Fridays
The business community in Bovey Tracey is getting into the holiday spirit, planning a calendar of Festive Fridays for all to enjoy. Starting November 29 and running through December 20, 2024, locals & visitors can enjoy four Friday nights of fun from 6-8pm, with live entertainment from local music & performing groups as well as food trucks, including Soul Pizza Truck & Alora Drinks, in the main Fore Street “triangle” and late-night shopping from the wonderful mix of independent businesses along Fore Street & Station Road.
More than 25 Bovey Tracey businesses are joining in the fun over the month for a first-of-its-kind collaborative effort in the town, spearheaded by Bovey 4 Business. Many businesses will also host fun in-store activities across the four weeks, including a book signing from local mystery writer Stephanie Austin at independent bookstore First Draft Books on November 29 and festive family-friendly creative workshops every Friday at Pom Stitch Tassel. The full list of participating businesses and activities will be posted on the facebook event.
These Festive Fridays are free and open to everyone. The Bovey Tracey Carnival will also be hosting its annual Christmas lighting party for the community on December 7, so all are invited to enjoy the full calendar of activities in town this holiday season.
Experience the magic of Christmas again at Paignton Zoo!
This year, we're returning to the comforts of a traditional Christmas, celebrating the joyful hallmarks of the festive season that we all know and love. Father Christmas will be back, along with Mrs Claus. There’ll be festive food, music, and a variety of activities that the whole family can enjoy.
No Christmas would be complete without a visit from Father Christmas! He'll be waiting to greet your little ones in his cosy, twinkling yurt on the lawn outside the restaurant. There will be more festive family fun on offer in the Sunbird room, and Mrs Claus on hand to share an enchanting story and interact with children.
To add to the festive atmosphere, live music will be performed on the restaurant terrace every weekend. And if you start to feel a bit chilly, you can grab a steamy cup of mulled wine and warm mince pie while you listen and sing along.
Don't miss out on this unforgettable Christmas experience. Tickets on sale very soon at www.paigntonzoo.org.uk
Christmas celebrations in Newton Abbot
We’re thrilled that the festive season is with us once again, we’ve been happily planning for it all year long!
Families really treasure this time of year so adding a little sparkle to the town centre is the least we can do.
From November 23 and our full day of events leading up to the Christmas Lights switch-on at 5.30pm, there will be something a bit special about visiting Newton Abbot.
Whether that’s the Victorian Evening on December 4 or Doggy Carol Service on December 7, perhaps the Lantern Parade on December 11 - we know everyone has their favourite.
There will be late night shopping each Wednesday on December 4, 11 and 18 with Santa in town and his grotto in The Clock Tower open for selfies, please come on over and enjoy a few hours away from the TV.
The Town Council is hoping the free events and giveaways we’ve arranged will help families when we know money is tight and we’re also confident our traders will enjoy a boost with shoppers choosing to supporting the high street.
So make Christmas 2024 one to really remember Newton Abbot, enjoy the treats right here on your doorstep.
Season’s greetings everyone! - Natalie Hicks, Events Co-ordinator at Newton Abbot Town Council.