He’s here! The man of the moment will be doing the festive rounds at a venue near you, delighting children and adults alike as we dive into the yuletide spirit during the pre-Christmas period.
Santa will be making appearances at a range of events across Cornwall, from markets and Christmas lights to pop-up grottos in gardens, hotels and even steam trains.
Here are the hottest tickets in town for a supremely special Father Christmas sighting…
Eden Project
Book your spot to see Santa and his elves at this uber magical location anytime from late November to Christmas Eve (at selected dates and times), where you’ll experience some brilliant behind-the-scenes treats including the elves’ bunk beds, stockings, and children’s letters before enjoying a story by the fire. Why not make a day of it and go ice-skating too?
Bodmin & Wenford Railway
Jump aboard for a unique ride and Santa-greeting experience on selected dates between 2nd-24th December for an hour-long journey into Santa’s grotto, where kids will receive a present and meet the elves, whilst adults can tuck into a mince pie and drink while listening to carols performed by Liskeard Band.
Trebah Garden
Trebah’s much-anticipated Santa Days take place on 21st and 22nd December, where visitors can sneak a peek at the elves making gifts before receiving their own from Santa himself. Follow the trail and admire the surrounds during what promises to be a highlight of the seasonal calendar for all the family.
Newquay Zoo
Join in with the a bevy of festive fun with Jungle All the Way – Newquay Zoo’s not-to-be-missed weekend of exciting happenings on 16th and 17th December. Complete the candy cane trail to win a special prize, meet Santa and listen to Christmas tales, listen to music from local bands, devour seasonal treats in the Lemur Café, meet characters like Belle and Rapunzel and, of course, take a tour to meet the magnificent host of animals at the zoo.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Visit the botanical spectacular out-of-season for a garden escape like no other between 16th-24th December as you explore the grounds via a special Christmas Trail before meeting Santa and receiving a gift. Don’t forget to stop off at the Steward’s House for the Christmas Craft activities!
National Trust
From Lanhydrock to Trelissick and Godolphin, Father Christmas will take centre stage across the county’s National Trust properties, with storytelling, presents and Christmas crackers in the exhilarating mix of things to do and enjoy.
Newquay Festive Festival
Expect lights, a lantern parade, fireworks and real-life reindeer complete with Santa at this lively event on 25th November, which will also feature late night shopping, carol singing and a host of Christmassy fun.
Padstow Christmas Festival
Running from 7th-10th December, the festival coincides with the Santa Fun Run and Cycle, and includes a plethora of treats in the market, festive chef demonstrations, stalls, Santa’s grotto, music and food and drink aplenty.
St Ives
On Saturday 2nd December, Santa will be arriving on the RNLI lifeboat into St Ives harbour at 3pm. He will then head to his grotto at The Salavtion Army Centre on the Wharf, where children will be able to meet and greet him from 3.30pm-5.30pm. Santa will be joined by a special appearance of the St Ives mermaid!
Penzance Christmas Lights & Market
Join the crowds for the lights switch-on that will take place on 26th November and will incorporate a range of entertainment and events, from late night shopping and singing to Santa passing through the town centre in his sleigh.
Santa Fun Run
Feast your eyes on a Santa spectacle as hundreds of dressed-up fun runners whizz past in a flurry of red and white at this annual charitable event. The Santa Series takes place in Truro on 3rd December, between Wadebridge and Padstow on 9th December, Falmouth on 16th December and Helston on 17th December – all of which will raise vital funds for Cornwall Hospice Care.
Bedruthan
The magical Sugar and Spice Grotto at Bedruthan opens its doors once again to welcome Santa from Friday 1st December to Sunday 24th December. Wind your way through the snow-laden trees as you make your way to meet and greet Father Christmas. On the hour-long experience you'll get to make a special gift, meet the elves, have a photo taken and visit the Snow Zone to make snow angels and throw snow balls! You can book your tickets at https://www.bedruthan.com/grotto/.
If you fancy seeing Santa in Cornwall, check out our cottages in Cornwall >