It’s time to get ready for the Christmas season, and across Devon festive events are on the horizon. 

Whether you are looking for a family day out or want to get started on your Christmas shopping, there is something for you. 

Celebrate the festive season with an unforgettable experience at Paignton Zoo, visit Newton Abbot Racecourse for a magical Christmas Fayre, and discover unique treasure’s at Osborne Christmas Gift & Craft Fair. 

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

Join us for a Magical Christmas Fayre at Newton Abbot Racecourse!

christmas fayre
(Newton Abbot Racecourse )

On Saturday November 30, Newton Abbot Racecourse will be filled with festive cheer! Discover 70 indoor stalls and 20 outdoor market stalls offering a fantastic range of crafts, gifts, and goodies—perfect for your Christmas shopping. This year, we’re excited to introduce our brand-new 40 Stable Christmas Village, each stable featuring its own unique craft or gift shop.

Relax and soak up the holiday spirit with live carols from Choir86 while enjoying delicious festive treats from the café or various outdoor food stalls. Kids will love our enchanting Humaryn miniature Reinpony rides and stepping inside the snow globe for a magical experience! Plus, Torbay Owls & Co will be on hand with a beautiful selection of owls for everyone to admire.

While you explore the Fayre, why not sip on a warming mulled wine and take part in our exciting “Find the Elf” competition? One lucky family will win a special trip to Dartmoor Zoo to have breakfast with Santa!

The event runs from 10am to 4pm. Entry: £3 for adults, and children 16 and under go free. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable festive day!

Osborne Christmas Gift & Craft Fair & Santa’s Grotto

caparo hotels
Santa's Grotto at the Christmas market. (Caparo Hotels )

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 11:00am to 3:30pm (with a “milk & cookies” break at 1:00pm). Each child meets Santa and receives a special gift!  £6 per ticket, with a portion going to Rowcroft Hospice.