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Six Cornwall events to get you in the Christmas spirit 2023

As the weather starts its inevitable cool-down after a sun-drenched summer of lazy days on the beach, coast path exploring and ocean adventures, it’s only natural to start looking ahead to the festive months. 

And, here in Cornwall, Christmas is a magical time. With the busy tourist season out of the way, crowded cobbled streets give way to twinkly lights and festive shop windows; sunglasses are swapped for comfy coats, and the odd local may even consider putting away the flip-flops (for a few months, at least). 

But far from hunkering down for the winter, it’s a time when the real Cornwall comes to life in a whole new way. With a jam-packed events calendar, it’s just the beginning of a season filled with festive fun for locals and visitors alike. 

Here, we’ve picked six that you won’t want to miss… 

Cornwall Christmas Fair 2023
Where: Eden Project, St Austell
When: 22nd and 23rd November  

The Eden Project’s annual Christmas Fair is back this year and set to be more festive than ever with over 60 independent stalls from within Cornwall and beyond.  This year’s event will be raising money for the Cornwall Community Foundation, with all funds from ticket sales going towards the cause. 

Book into the preview and shopping evening on 22nd  November for a chance to enjoy supper and sip on wine while you browse the artisan delights or treat yourself to lunch and a spot of Christmas shopping, with free admission to the biomes, the next day. 

Festive Friday
Where: Truro
When: Friday 24th November 

Head into Truro for an evening walk under the sparkly Christmas lights that get switched on to welcome in the festive season. There will be live music, street entertainment and plenty of shops open for the day that also marks Black Friday.  

Peter Pan
Where: Hall for Cornwall, Truro
When: 4-31st December  

Starring Edward Rowe (Kernow King) as Captain Hook, in Peter Pan, this ageless adventure is full of pesky pirates, pantomime gags and plenty of festive cheer. Get ready to journey to Neverland….
Buy tickets: https://www.hallforcornwall.co.uk/whats-on/peter-pan/ 

Heligan Night Garen
Where: Lost Gardens of Heligan, nr St Austell
When: 17th November – 2nd January 

The Heligan Night Garden is a magical and enchanting experience that transforms the Lost Gardens of Heligan into a captivating night-time wonderland. As darkness falls, the gardens come alive with lights, illuminating the natural beauty of this historic estate. Visitors can wander through illuminated pathways, discover hidden installations, and immerse themselves in the ethereal atmosphere. With storytelling, live music, and enchanting surprises around every corner, the Heligan Night Garden offers a unique and unforgettable nocturnal adventure for all ages.  

Mousehole Harbour Lights
Where: Mousehole, nr Penzance
When: December – January 

Every December, this tiny historic fishing village comes to life with one of the best Christmas lights spectacles in the UK. A tradition that has been going for more than 40 years, the trip is well worth the view as you amble up the cobble streets and look down on the hundreds of twinkling lights and illumination displays* that are scattered across the harbour. 

*Note that every year on December 19th, the lights are dimmed between 8pm and 9pm to remember those lost in the 1981 Penlee Lifeboat Disaster. 

Ice skating at the Eden Project
Where: Eden Project, St Austell
When: 14th October until February 2024 

If you love sliding across the ice, combine a trip to the world-famous Eden Project with a session at their seasonal ice-rink! While open for the entire winter season, visiting before Christmas is the perfect way to get into the festive mood. 

Skate – or stumble, depending on your abilities – across the glittering rink as you listen to festive tunes and finish things off with a warm cider from the bar. 

Book the ultimate Cornish getaway

After a long day soaking up the festive cheer, return to the Plume of Feathers, where we’ll take care of you with delicious food from our seasonal menus and luxury spacious rooms. 

To start booking your ultimate Cornish getaway.