Lantern parades, sparkling lights, festive markets, independent shopping and a Winter Wonderland are all part of Ilfracombe's Christmas celebrations.
With just 50 days until Christmas, Ilfracombe is gearing up for a packed programme of festive events, shopping and seasonal celebrations, with Visit Ilfracombe and Ilfracombe Town Council joining forces with local businesses and event organisers to promote everything the town has to offer.
The festive programme begins with a Christmas Art Market at North Devon Resort on 14 and 15 November, before the celebrations gather pace later in the month.
A bumper weekend of Christmas celebrations
The town's main festivities get underway on Friday 27 November with Combe Christmas – Lighting of the Lights, bringing entertainment, food, music and Christmas cheer to the High Street and War Memorial area.
This year's celebrations will also feature a lantern parade themed 'Boats of Ilfracombe', celebrating the town's maritime heritage. Free lantern-making workshops on 21 and 22 November, supported by funding from Ilfracombe Town Council's Grants Scheme, will give families and the wider community the chance to get involved.
Ilfracombe Town Councillor Mel Turnbull, who is helping to lead plans for the parade, said: "'Boats of Ilfracombe' is a wonderful way to celebrate our town's maritime heritage, and we're looking forward to seeing a colourful procession of illuminated boats through the streets.
"Following the success of last year's event, Ilfracombe Town Council is delighted to help fund the free workshops, giving people of all ages the chance to get creative and be part of something special."
The Christmas Tree Festival at Pip & Jim's Church runs from 26 November to 2 December, while on Monday 30 November, celebrations move to the harbour and seafront for the switching on of the lights at Pip & Jim's, with carol singing and local shops and bars opening for the evening.
Winter Wonderland and festive shopping
Winter Wonderland returns to Bicclescombe Park on 5 and 6 December, transforming the park with sparkling illuminations. Visitors can stroll through the magical light displays, browse stalls selling gifts and other goodies, and enjoy seasonal refreshments.
Saturday 5 December also sees Ilfracombe Shopping Super Saturday, with independent retailers offering special promotions and discounts. With the Farmers' Market taking place too, there's plenty of reason to head into town, particularly as Ilfracombe Town Council is providing free parking in the Ropery Road and High Street car parks every Saturday throughout December.
A new addition to this year's calendar is the Cool Yule Bazaar on Thursday 10 December, bringing artisan shopping, food, drink and carol singing to Belgrave Promenade.
Alongside the headline events, visitors can enjoy Christmas markets, fairs and entertainment, while the town's shops, cafés, restaurants, pubs and hotels offer everything from unique gifts to festive menus and party nights.
Discover Christmas in Ilfracombe
Visit Ilfracombe has brought everything together in a dedicated online Christmas guide, featuring events, shopping, festive dining and much more.
The guide will be updated throughout the season as further events, menus and offers are announced, helping residents and visitors make the most of Christmas in Ilfracombe while supporting the town's local businesses.
To Explore the full programme, click here.