Things to do for Christmas in Devon

We are spoilt for choice with Christmas events here in Devon. Enjoy the most magical time of the year by the sea, whether that’s a quiet solo or couples break away or spending time with the whole family, there are a range of things to do at Christmas and Christmas events 2022.

Shows and pantomimes

A fun event for the whole family, we are lucky to have such beautiful theatres and brilliant shows on offer in East Devon. Whether you are a theatrical lover, or new to the arts and looking for a fun event, see the list below to find out what’s on in East Devon this season.

• A Christmas Carol, Exmouth Pavilion – 1 December 2022
• Robin Hood, Northcott Theatre, Exeter – 9 December 2022 – 7 January 2023
• Dick Whittington, Barnfield Theatre, Exeter – 11 December 2022
• Aladdin, Manor Pavilion Theatre, Sidmouth- 17 Dec 2022- 2 January 2023
• Sidmouth Town Band Christmas Concert, Manor Pavilion Theatre, Sidmouth- 2^nd -3^rd December 2022
• The Railway Children, Blackmore Theatre, Exmouth – 6^th -11^th December 2022
• Carols by Candlelight, The Donkey Sanctuary, 9^th December 2022

Wreath workshops

Enjoy a creative Christmas day out and take part in a Christmas wreath making workshop this year. There are some fantastic venues below offering workshops to create your own Christmas masterpiece.

• Wood Barn Flowers, Hotel du Vin, Exeter, 4th December 2022
• Paschoe House, Bow, Crediton, 3rd December 2022
• Sarah Broom Christmas Wreath Workshop, Cotleigh Village Hall, nr Honiton, 7th December 2022
• Lydford House Workshops, Dartmoor, 25^th – 27th November, 2^nd – 11th December 2022
• Half-day Workshop, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter, 26 November, 3rd, 8th, 10th December 2022
• Darts Farm Wreath making, 9th & 10th Dec, £75

Christmas Markets

Christmas markets are a wonderful way to support local communities and buy gifts for loved ones. There are a wide variety of stalls from local arts and crafts to artisan food stalls. Exeter Christmas market is one of the most popular Christmas events in Devon. See our specific Christmas market blog to see more local markets this year.

• Connaught at Christmas & Illuminated Gardens, Sidmouth 9^th– 18^th December 2022
• Winter Market at Heron Farm, Near Honiton, 3rd-4th December 2022
• Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market, 18th Nov – 18th December 2022

Christmas activities for kids (and big kids)

There’s nothing quite like a kid at Christmas, share the magical spirit with your little ones and enjoy these Christmas activities for families.

• Stories of Sanctuary Spirit, The Donkey Sanctuary, 2 November – 17 March
• Sail with Santa, Stuart Line Cruises, 3^rd -22^nd December 2022 – Now sold out but do enquire for their reserve list.
• Christmas at Bear Town, Near Cullompton, 2^nd– 24^th December 2022
• Christmas Nativity at Pennywell Fam, 18th November to 24th December 2022

Christmas days out

There are some brilliant things to do for Christmas this year, from shopping in sea-side towns lit up with cheer to events for the whole family. See our list below for more ideas on things to do in Devon at Christmas.

• Exeter Winter Wonderland, 17^th November- 2^nd January
• The Polar Express, Seaton Tramway, 25^th November- 24 December
• Christmas Train of Lights, Dartmouth Steam Railway 25^th Nov- 30^th December 2022
• Christmas at the Castle, Powderham Castle, 1^st– 31^st December 2022
• Exmouth Winter Festival & Light Switch On, 3^rd December 2022 – The Strand is lit up with walk-about performers, choirs, live music and the annual Christmas Tree light switch-on.
• Festive Sea Swim – Enjoy this bonkers sea-side town tradition, often in fancy dress! Exmouth– Christmas Day, Budleigh -Christmas Day, Sidmouth– Boxing Day, Topsham – New Years Day

We look forward to welcoming many new and returning guests this year, whether you are visiting family in Devon or looking for a quiet escape for Christmas or Twixmas, we have a property for everyone to enjoy. Devon is blessed with beautiful independent shops in the local towns, It’s the perfect time to enjoy the lower winter prices for a short break and enjoy some R&R and Christmas shopping.