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Unique festive experiences and events in Cornwall 2023

Epic storm watching opportunities, mulled Cornish cider, wintery walks with the most dramatic of views… Christmas in Cornwall is really rather spectacular.

The iconic Christmas lights in Mousehole harbour

While the county’s array of Christmas markets, lights switch-ons, and Father Christmas appearances all make for a fabulously festive prelude to the big day itself, there’s also an array of more extraordinary events awaiting visitors to Cornwall this Christmas.

From sea swims to wreath workshops, theatre performances, charity events, and festivals, a wonderland of a different nature can be discovered throughout the western corners this winter.

Feeling festive yet? Get in the Christmas spirit with our round-up of the most unique festive experiences in Cornwall this year.

Santa and steam engines…

Father Christmas at Lappa Valley

Father Christmas sitting in his grotto at Lappa Valley

Every weekend between the 20th November and the 24th of December
lappavalley.co.uk

Giving the reindeer a break before the big day (or should we say night), Santa will be visiting Cornwall by train in the lead up to Christmas, giving young ones (and the young at heart) the chance to enjoy the magical wonder of vintage locomotives at Lappa Valley. This nostalgic festive affair leaves nothing out with Rudolph stopping by for photos, a traditional fairground organ providing a Yuletide atmosphere, and Santa handing out presents from his enchanted grotto. Throw in some complimentary seasonal refreshments for the grown-ups and you’ve got a very merry day out!

Christmas at Bodmin & Wenford Railway

Father Christmas standing in front of a steam train at Bodmin & Wenford Railway

Various dates through December
bodminrailway.co.uk

Another chance to catch Father Christmas trackside, Bodmin & Wenford Railway will be pulling out all the stops for their festive frivolities, including private Santa trains - new for 2024! Tuck into mince pies and drinks at Bodmin Station before embarking upon an hour-long journey with Santa by your side (or twenty minutes for the private Santa experience), climb aboard for a Christmas murder mystery, or enjoy crafting in the carriages with Father Christmas, where hot chocolate and cookies create the ultimate festive spirit.

Festival delights…

Montol Festival

People parading through Penzance in costumes as a part of the Montol Festival

Saturday the 21st of December
montolfestival.co.uk

Immerse yourself in a week’s worth of arts and community events in Penzance, which will culminate in the main event on the 21st of December: Montol Eve. Celebrating the midwinter solstice in spellbinding style, the Celtic festival features lantern and mask-making workshops, storytelling, carol services, street entertainers, ceilidh, late-night shopping, a procession, and guise dancing followed by the ritual burning of the sun effigy – it’s the ultimate way to welcome winter and all its cosy glory.

Seasonal activities…

Christmas/Boxing Day Swims

A crowd of people going for a Christmas Day swim in Cornwall

With a beach undoubtedly near you, Cornwall’s popular tradition of Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s swims continue to see crowds take the plunge at an assortment of super scenic locations. From Sennen to St Ives, Portreath to St Agnes, there are lots of fantastic ceremonial swims across the county. There really is no better – or more bracing – excuse to dust off the Christmas Speedos to enjoy a dip! For an extra festive swim, choose a beach with a café – it’s the ultimate way to work up an appetite for a festive feast.

Ice-skating at Eden

People ice skating at the Eden Project

Daily until the 23rd of February
edenproject.com/visit/whats-on/ice-skating

Whether you fancy yourself as something of a pro skater or an ice-bound novice, Eden’s winter wonderland rink is the place to spin around this season. Penguin skating aids provide a sure-footed helping wing for the little ones and wheelchairs are welcome too, ensuring everyone can enjoy this most festive of activities. You’ll also find a fantastic range of refreshments around the Eden Project, and if you time it right, you can combine a skate with a visit to Father Christmas, a wreath-making workshop, or a magical display of lights across the already impressive biomes – Christmas at Eden really is something that has to be seen to be believed.

Christmas stories…

Jack and the Beanstalk

Friday 6th to Tuesday the 31st of December
Jack and the Beanstalk - Hall for Cornwall | Theatre & Arts in Cornwall

Climb the beanstalk at the Hall for Cornwall's pantomime 'Jack and the Beanstalk'. One for all ages, this giant tale will transport you to a faraway land up in the clouds. Where will the beanstalk take Jack, and will he save his village? You'll have to book tickets to find out!

The Mousehole Cat

The Mousehole Cat puppet by Cousin Jack's

Saturday the 14th to Tuesday the 31st of December
cousinjacks.org/the-mousehole-cat

This heart-warming tale has been a Christmas favourite for generations, with this enchanting retelling by Cousin Jacks bringing the story to life. Held at Solomon Browne Memorial Hall in Mousehole, you can combine your visit with a walk around the very harbour that inspired the story, providing an additional boost of yuletide magic to your day. The Mousehole Christmas lights are famous after all, and even feature a softly glowing tribute to the brave cat.

Thinking of booking a last-minute festive getaway? View all of our holiday cottages in Cornwall for a seasonal stay you won’t forget.

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