Christmas seems to have swung towards us at lightening speed this year, but fret not - for an exciting range of yuletide markets and entertainment awaits the visitor to Cornwall this winter.
So whether you wish to meet Santa, stock up on goodies for the big day or embark upon a sensory-filled shopping experience while soaking up the atmosphere of the season, these much-anticipated events look set to tick all the boxes in rather enchanting style…
Big Doggy Day Out Christmas Festival – 2nd November
Head to the Royal Cornwall Showground in Wadebridge to roam the fabulous host of stalls that will be selling anything your furry friend could ever want, from accessories and food to toys and a dazzling array of leads and collars. Plus, with fun and activities designed especially for dogs including snowball run, advent adventure, doggy café and dog show, it promises to be a memorable day out for every member of the family.
Etsy Made Local Christmas Fair – 15th-17th November
Hot foot it to Penryn Campus Sports Centre for some gorgeous gifts by modern makers along with delicious street food, plenty of chill-out spaces and festive treats, with cocktails and live music to savour on opening night.
Bedruthan Christmas Fair – 23rd-24th November and Sugar and Spice Grotto (30th November-23rd December)
Jam-packed with some of the south west’s most talented artisan designers and makers, expect a staggering variety of stalls featuring art, homewares, textiles, décor, craft, ceramics, fashion, food and drink, and accessories, as well as creative workshops for hands-on fun. And don’t forget the activity-filled wonderland that is, their Sugar and Spice Grotto: a mystical experience where little ones will meet the elves, Ice Queen and the man of the moment himself.
Made in Cornwall Christmas Fair – 27th November-1st December
Truro’s centrally located Piazza will host the annual event chock with a marvellous mix of items exclusively produced in the county, from clothing, food and drink to jewellery, crafts, art, glassware, health and beauty. With over one hundred exhibitors, you’ll find something brilliantly unique to gift your loved ones (or your self!)
Krowji Open Studios 29th November-1st December
Peruse over 50 artists, makers and designers’ stalls whose work you can buy for the ultimate in bespoke this Christmas. The free event will also entertain visitors on its launch night with local choir, the Ingleheart Singers while treating you to a complimentary glass of mulled wine and mince pie, with pop-up performances continuing throughout the not-to-be-missed event.
Flambards Christmas Craft Fayre – 30th November-1st December
With stalls scattered throughout the venue, which offers visitors the chance to wander the exhibitions as well as enjoy a soundtrack by Helston Town Band and the chance to meet Santa and his elves at their Meet and Greet Grotto, Flambard’s annual fayre makes a spellbinding choice for a distinctive day out.
Ice Skating (until 23rd February), Cornwall Christmas Fair (13th-14th November) and Meeting Father Christmas (30th November-24th December) at the Eden Project
Don the skates and spin and twirl to your heart’s content at the Eden’s glorious rink before making a date with Father Christmas to meet him and his elves. And with funds being raised for Macmillan by Eden’s Christmas Fair, you can indulge in a spot of top-notch shopping at an iconic venue during an event replete with the season’s sense of goodwill.
And don’t miss December’s line-up of Christmas events…
Christmas Concert at Newlyn Art Gallery (7th December)
Padstow Christmas Festival (5th-8th December)
Fowey Christmas Market (6th-8th December)
Mount Edgcumbe Christmas Fayre (7th-8th December)
Alternative Christmas Present Show at Carnglaze Caverns (7th-8th December)
The Winter Gift Fayre in Truro (11th-19th December)
Port Eliot Christmas Festival (13th-14th December)
Mousehole Christmas Lights (14th December-4th January)
Looking for somewhere to stay during the festive season? View our Christmas availability here >
Tags: Christmas