The festive season is officially underway in the South West, with Christmas lights switch-on events scheduled across the region over the coming weeks.
Kicking off the festivities in Plymouth, the city centre lights will be illuminated on Thursday 14th November at 6:30pm. The event, taking place in the Piazza, promises entertainment, a visit from Santa Claus, and the presence of the Lord Mayor. This festive switch-on will also mark the start of late-night shopping, taking place every Thursday until Christmas.
Exeter will follow suit the next day, with its Christmas lights being switched on Friday 15th November, coinciding with the opening of the Cathedral Christmas Market. Over 100 stalls featuring independent traders will be present, offering a diverse selection of gifts, food, and drinks.
Across the region, numerous towns and cities are gearing up for their own unique Christmas light displays. A schedule of notable events is as follows:
Plymouth (Barbican): Saturday 16th November
Truro: Friday 22nd November
Newton Abbot: Saturday 23rd November
Barnstaple: Thursday 28th November
Bay of Lights (Torquay, Paignton & Brixham): Friday 29th November
Bodmin: Friday 29th November
St Austell: Saturday 30th November
Penzance: Saturday 30th November
Angarrack: Sunday 1st December
Mousehole: Thursday 12th December
Truro's Lemon Quay will play host to Cornwall's largest Christmas market, running from Friday 22nd November until Christmas Eve. The market promises a vibrant selection of stalls offering festive treats, gifts, and refreshments.
The iconic Mousehole Harbour Lights show, a cherished tradition since 1963, will return on Thursday 12th December. The display, showcasing captivating light projections of Santa, Christmas puddings, and a juggling octopus, is sure to be a magical spectacle.
As the festive season gathers pace, the South West's Christmas lights switch-on events offer a diverse range of activities for residents and visitors alike, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere for all to enjoy.