Exeter Christmas Events 2026
Your guide to the best Christmas events in Exeter and nearby
Christmas in the West Country around Exeter often means gathering for carols, enjoying twinkling light trails, and finding unique gifts at local craft retreats. The season here is punctuated by the warmth of theatre productions and the anticipation of Santa’s visits to castles and railways, with local communities coming together for tree lighting ceremonies and festive fayres.
Visitors can expect to find everything from magical train rides like The Polar Express™ Train Ride to family pantomimes, including Jack & The Beanstalk in Exmouth and Jack and the Beanstalk in Torquay. For those seeking a touch of enchantment, Christmashay Village offers a local Exeter celebration, while other nearby treasures include Christmas at Woodlands Leisure Park and the Barnstaple Christmas lights switch-on.
Browse Christmas Near Exeter by Category
Christmas Shows
Nostalgic Christmas show with over 60 songs
Christmas Markets
Over 100 artisan vendors at a festive Christmas market.
Christmas Lights
Spectacular light trail and real ice rink
Christmas Parties
Festive afternoon tea with Father Christmas
Unique & Unusual Christmas Events
Visit Father Christmas with pets welcome
Editor's Picks
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Christmas at Princesshay
European-style Christmas market with artisan stalls and festive entertainment.
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Magdalen Road Christmas Fair
Exeter's best Christmas fair on Magdalen Road
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Christmas at Crealy
Winter Wonderland transformation with Santa meet & greet.
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A Christmas Carol by The Duke's Theatre Company
Classic holiday theater performance
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The Secret Santa's Grotto 2026
Visit Father Christmas with pets welcome
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Bay of Lights Illumination Trail 2026
· Torquay
Spectacular light trail and real ice rink
Exeter Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Christmas Events in Nearby Cities
Exeter Christmas FAQ
What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Exeter?
The Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market, Christmashay Village, and Exeter’s Winter Wonderland in Northernhay Gardens are among the city’s largest annual events.
What holiday traditions are unique to Exeter?
Exeter celebrates with a festive light switch-on, the Cathedral’s Christmas by Candlelight services, and a Charity Christmas Trees Festival in Bedford Street.
Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Exeter?
Princesshay, Cathedral Green, and Northernhay Gardens are especially festive, with many residential streets also decorated throughout the city.
Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Exeter?
The Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market and Christmashay Village feature local artisans and makers, with additional stalls in the city center during the season.
What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Exeter?
Viewing the Christmas lights, exploring the Cathedral (by donation), and visiting the free areas of the Christmas markets are great budget-friendly options.
What are good picks for families with kids in Exeter?
Exeter’s Winter Wonderland offers skating, Santa’s Grotto, and a funfair, while the Christmas markets and light displays provide plenty of family-friendly entertainment.
Today's Trending Event
One of today's most-visited holiday events from across the country.
A Christmas Carol
📍 New York , NY , United States
Tony Award-winning intimate staging of A Christmas Carol.
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