Christmas in Exeter

Experience the magic of Christmas in Exeter. There is so much to see and do you'll want to stay longer, so why not make the most of the season and treat yourself to an overnight stay at one of the city-centre hotels.

Exeter’s Christmas lights will be switched on across the city from the afternoon of Friday 14th November, with an exciting new display set to twinkle in the winter nights.  

The wonderfully atmospheric Cathedral Christmas Market returns from 20^th November to 19^th December. Explore the labyrinth of winding lanes, festooned with fairy lights and laced with the seasonal sights and smells of over 100 festive chalets, plus a new area in the Cloister Garden, hosting independent traders.

While visiting the Cathedral Market you can also take advantage of Exeter Cathedral's 'Entry by donation' offer to explore its amazing architecture and discover one thousand years of wonder. Throughout the festive season the Cathedral plays host to a wonderful array of performances including popular carol services, Christmas by Candlelight and The Exeter Nativity.

This Christmas, Princesshay shines brighter than ever with thousands of twinkling lights, green wreaths, and a spectacular 8m tree in Princesshay Square. Explore festive photo spots including Santa’s Sleigh, Angel Wings, and the popular walk-through JOY letters. This year’s eco-friendly lighting uses recycled materials and ultra LED bulbs. The celebrations kick off on 20th November with the launch of Christmashay Village and late-night shopping, featuring dazzling performances from SPARK! WorldBeaters at 5pm, 6pm, and 7pm. Plus, the much-loved Charity Christmas Trees Festival returns from 14 November, lighting up Bedford Street with 35 beautifully decorated trees supporting local causes.

Visit the Guildhall Shopping Centre for more family fun this Christmas, with late night shopping and festive entertainment from Thursday 20th November, and continuing throughout December. Look out for Christmas story time on select dates, Santa and Mrs Claus, and watch out as the The Grinch is back in town!

The perfect spot to browse for a unique Exeter gift, the Shop at RAMM opens its doors for late night Christmas shopping on Thursday 4th and 11th December and there's also Night at the Museum - Winter Wonders on 11th December.

Winter Wonderland returns to Northernhay Gardens, 22nd November to 24th December, with a covered, real ice rink open daily, Santa's Grotto, Light Trail, vintage carousel, fairground rides, street food, and festive stalls.

Step into the festive spirit at two of Exeter’s most charming seasonal events. The much-loved Magdalen Road Christmas Fair returns (6th December) with its cosy community atmosphere, showcasing local traders, artisan gifts, delicious food, and live music - the perfect place to shop local and soak up the Christmas cheer. Down by the water, Christmas on the Quay (21st December) brings a magical maritime twist, with twinkling lights, festive stalls, and entertainment creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.

Of course Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without an appearance by the big man himself and Santa will be making some special guest appearances across Exeter, including Exeter City Community Trust's Santa Run on 7th December. Check out if you've made the nice or naughty list with our guide on where to find Santa before the big day. 

The festive fun continues in theatre land and there's lots of show stopping pantomimes to keep the whole family entertained. The Wizard of Oz, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Cinderella will all be casting a magical spell over Exeter audience.

Just four miles from Exeter, the beautiful estuary town of Topsham offers a wonderfully eclectic Christmas shopping experience. With over 50 independent shops and services across town, you’re sure to find a unique gift. Visit during their Christmas shopping evening to soak up the festive atmosphere.

The Topsham Christmas Lights Switch-On is all set for Friday 28th November. Find out more on the Love Topsham website. 

If you are stuck for the perfect gift this Christmas treat your loved ones to an independent gift card. The joy of the card is that the gifted amount can be spent across multiple independent retailers, salons, cafes and restaurants, so you really are supporting local with the card. Purchase online at www.inexetergiftcard.co.uk. 

Check out our complete What's On guide to Christmas events in Exeter this festive season.