Exeter is ready to deliver a Christmas season packed with atmospheric markets, late-night shopping, family entertainment, live performances and magical experiences across the city. From the Cathedral Green to the city’s distinctive shopping quarters, visitors can look forward to festive moments around every corner.
Festive Friday launches Christmas in Exeter
The season begins on Friday 13 November as Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market and Princesshay’s Festive Market and Mistletoe Bar open, while Christmas lights illuminate the city. It is the perfect first taste of Christmas.
Late-night shopping gets off to a spectacular start
Exeter’s late-night shopping season begins on Thursday 19 November, with John Lewis, Princesshay and many High Street stores staying open later and Guildhall Shopping Centre joining from 26 November. Princesshay will launch the evenings in showstopping style with the return of SPARK! Drummers, performing at 5pm, 6pm and 7pm on 19 November.
Christmas experiences not to miss
Devon’s biggest Christmas market
More than 100 festive chalets will fill Cathedral Green in the magnificent setting of Exeter Cathedral. Visitors can discover gifts from handpicked traders, enjoy seasonal food and raise a cup of mulled wine beneath the Cathedral’s famous towers at one of the city’s most anticipated Christmas traditions.
Timeless traditions and unforgettable Christmas moments at Exeter Cathedral
Throughout the market, Exeter Cathedral will welcome visitors with entry by donation, offering the chance to explore its remarkable architecture and history. A programme of events and services will build anticipation towards Christmas Day, with highlights including the Advent Procession on 29 November, the Lord Mayor and Dean’s Carol Service on 7 December and the family favourite Exeter Nativity featuring alpacas on 13 December.
Picture-perfect moments in Princesshay
Princesshay will be filled with shareable festive moments as its much-loved Angel Wings, Santa’s Sleigh and JOY letters return. Visitors can also discover the Charity Christmas Trees lining Roman Walk, each individually decorated by a local charity.
Family fun at Guildhall Shopping and Dining
Fresh from its 50th anniversary celebrations, Guildhall Shopping and Dining will step straight into Christmas with family entertainment and festive surprises. The Grinch will bring his unmistakable disdain for the season to the centre on selected dates, creating memorable encounters for visitors of all ages.
Santa is coming to the city
Exeter will welcome a flurry of Santas on Sunday 6 December as the annual Santa Fun Run brings a sea of red suits to the city centre. Organised by Exeter City Community Trust, the popular event promises a lively and memorable start to the day. The festive appearances continue at Princesshay, where Santa Sundays begin on 29 November, plus new for this year, two additional Santa Saturdays, partnering with the Deaf Academy and aimed at those deaf or hard of hearing, you can enjoy meeting a Signing Santa on 5 and 12 December (together with his interpreter) for a magical and inclusive festive moment. Guildhall Shopping Centre will add to the magic with seasonal storytelling with Santa and Mrs Clause on Monday 21 December.
Winter Wonderland at Northernhay Gardens: 20 November to 3 January
Winter Wonderland brings fairground rides, street food and a covered real-ice rink to the heart of the city. Visitors can take a spin on the rides, enjoy something seasonal to eat and get their skates on for a festive day or evening out.
One-day events worth making a trip for
Each of Exeter’s quarters has its own character, and a series of special events will offer even more reasons to explore.
Festive Fore Street Flea
On 22 November, the Festive Fore Street Flea will transform the street as businesses spill outdoors alongside local makers and crafters at this much-loved market.
Gandy Street’s newest event gets a Festive makeover: Festive First Thursday
New to Exeter’s Christmas calendar for 2026, First Thursdays will receive a festive makeover on 3 December, sponsored by Costa Coffee’s Exeter stores. Gandy Street will glow with early-evening entertainment, late-night shopping, live music and street performances, bringing extra sparkle to one of Exeter’s most atmospheric streets.
Shop local on Small Business Saturday at Magdalen Road Christmas Fair
On the afternoon of Saturday 5 December until dark, the much-loved Magdalen Road Christmas Fair returns to the village street in the heart of the city. Its warm community atmosphere, local traders, artisan gifts, delicious food and live music make it an ideal place to shop local and soak up the Christmas cheer.
Showstopping family theatre
The festive fun continues on Exeter’s stages. Pinocchio comes to Exeter Corn Exchange from 12 December to 2 January, Sleeping Beauty runs at Exeter Northcott from 27 November to 3 January, and Quirk Theatre presents Yeti at the Exeter Phoenix from 13 to 27 December.
Dates for your diary
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