In Christmas in Exeter, What's On, Inspire Me, Things to Do

There’s something magical about Christmas in Exeter. From sparkling historic streets and the magnificent Cathedral to festive fairs and traditional celebrations, the city is full of seasonal charm.

Whether you’re planning a family day out or a festive escape, here are 12 FREE festive events and experiences to add to your Christmas calendar for 2026.

SPARK! Drummers

5pm, 6pm and 7pm, Thursday 19 November 

Drum roll please... get ready for a spectacular burst of rhythm as SPARK! Drummers bring their high-energy street performance to Exeter. Expect dazzling costumes, dramatic beats and an unforgettable atmosphere as the performers light up the city streets. It's time to Step into Christmas with Princesshay.

Winter Wonderland

20 November - 3 January 

Step into a Winter Wonderland in the heart of Exeter. Enjoy the festive atmosphere at Northernhay Gardens, where twinkling lights and seasonal magic create a lovely Christmas experience. Take a stroll through the illuminated light trail and soak up the sparkle – a wonderful festive outing for all ages.

Exeter Custom House Festive Gift Fair

10am to 4pm, Saturday 21 November

Get Christmas shopping all wrapped up on Exeter’s historic Quayside. Discover unique gifts at the Custom House Festive Gift Fair, browse the Farmers’ Market and enjoy the waterfront’s independent shops, cafés and pubs. 

Festive Fore Street

10am to 4pm, Sunday 22nd November

Discover the festive charm of Fore Street this Christmas. Wander along one of Exeter’s most characterful streets, explore its independent shops, find unique gifts and enjoy the creative, community spirit that makes it so special. With plenty of quirky finds and local gems, it’s the perfect place to shop small and soak up some Christmas magic.

Festive First Thursday

Thursday 3 December

Following a successful summer launch, First Thursdays gets a festive makeover. Taking place along the atmospheric Gandy Street, this special Christmas edition promises to bring a little extra sparkle to one of Exeter’s most distinctive streets. As the lights twinkle and the evening draws in, visitors can soak up a vibrant festive atmosphere with lively early-evening entertainment, late-night shopping, live music and street performances.

Deck the Halls

11.30am–2pm, Thursday 3 December

Help decorate the Devon and Exeter Institution's Christmas tree and make evergreen garlands to 'spruce' up their spaces for the festive season. It's free to join in, but let the team know you're coming so they know to prepare the mince pies and mulled wine.

Magdalen Road Christmas Fair

Saturday 5 December

Get into the festive spirit at Magdalen Road’s Christmas Fair. Enjoy a wonderful celebration of local businesses, independent traders and community spirit, with plenty of unique gifts, seasonal treats and Christmas cheer. Wander the decorated street, support local shops and soak up the merry atmosphere.

Santa Run

Sunday 6 December

Get ready for a festive flurry of fun as Exeter’s Santa Run brings a sea of red suits, jolly runners and Christmas cheer to the city. Find a spot along the route, wave to all the Santas and soak up the merry atmosphere. It’s a brilliant, free festive spectacle for all ages – ho, ho, ho!

Mind Over Mayhem at Christmas

11am to 4pm, Sunday 6 December, 11am–4pm

A free daytime family event at Exeter Phoenix featuring wellbeing taster sessions, crafts, activities, films and dance. There will also be a Santa’s Grotto and free presents for children through the event’s family support programme.

Exeter Nativity

3pm to 4pm (doors open 2:15pm), Sunday 13 December

Step into the magic of Christmas with a traditional festive event in the spectacular surroundings of Exeter Cathedral. Enjoy an entertaining retelling of the famous Christmas story, brought to life with some very special guests – real-life alpacas! Combining festive fun, family-friendly storytelling and the magnificent setting of the Cathedral, it’s a wonderfully memorable way to celebrate the season.

Carols at the Cathedral

1pm, 15 and 17 December

Enjoy a rejuvenating break from Christmas shopping with a selection of your favourite carols. No booking is required so simply come along and some traditional carol singing inside Exeter Cathedral.

Red Coat Guided Tours

Daily (except Christmas Day)

No guide to free things to do in Exeter would be complete without a mention of the wonderful Red Coat Guided Tours. These fascinating free walking tours are a fantastic way to discover our city’s rich history, uncover hidden stories and explore its historic streets with the help of knowledgeable local guides. And for something extra special this festive season, look out for the Christmas Eve Mystery Tour – a unique opportunity to explore Exeter with a little seasonal intrigue!

Check out our Christmas in Exeter guide for what's on this festive season.

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