Looking for Christmas markets and festive light switch-ons in North Devon? From browsing stalls for handmade gifts to watching harbour villages sparkle after dark, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season across the area. Here are some dates to add to your diary for 2026. Event details can change, so check with organisers before travelling.
Start your Christmas shopping at Affinity Devon
7–8 November 2026 | Affinity Devon, Bideford
Get an early start on your Christmas shopping at Affinity Devon’s festive market. Browse seasonal stalls, look out for locally made gifts and enjoy family entertainment at the shopping centre.
Find local gifts at RHS Garden Rosemoor
20–22 November 2026 | Great Torrington
The Magic of Christmas Craft and Food Fair at RHS Garden Rosemoor brings together local artists and producers. Browse crafts, gifts and seasonal food in the Garden Room, open from 10am to 4pm. Normal garden admission applies for non-members; no booking is required for the fair.
Enjoy a festive day at Arlington Court
21–23 November 2026 | Arlington Court
Make a day of Christmas shopping at Arlington Court, where the North Devon Handmade Collective is bringing a pop-up shop and mini market to the estate. Expect local arts, crafts and carefully selected stalls alongside the house’s Storybook Christmas displays and festive trail.
See Ilfracombe’s Christmas lights
Friday 27 November 2026 | Ilfracombe
Combe Christmas brings festive stalls, entertainment and a lantern parade to Ilfracombe as the town celebrates its Christmas lights. It’s a lovely chance to enjoy the town centre after dark and support local shops while soaking up the seasonal atmosphere.
Browse the Lynton Town Hall Christmas Market
28–29 November 2026 | Lynton
Step inside Lynton Town Hall to browse stalls selling local food and drink, crafts and gifts. The market is part of the Lynton and Lynmouth Christmas Shopping Weekend, making it a good excuse to explore both villages and their independent shops.
Celebrate the season on Bideford Quay
Sunday 29 November 2026 | Bideford Quay
Bideford’s free Christmas Lights Switch-On runs from 2pm to 7.30pm, with festive stalls, food, family activities and live entertainment. The lights are due to be switched on at 5.30pm, bringing the afternoon’s celebrations to a sparkling finish.
Head to the North Devon Christmas Market in Braunton
Saturday 5 December 2026 | Braunton, 12pm–8pm
Make time for Braunton’s outdoor North Devon Christmas Market, with more than 130 traders, handmade gifts, street food, live entertainment and activities for children. Entry is free, and the market is a chance to discover Braunton’s shops while you’re there.
Watch Clovelly light up for the RNLI
Sunday 6 December 2026 | Clovelly Harbour, 4pm–10pm
Clovelly’s RNLI Christmas Light Switch-On pairs the village’s festive lights with a brass band procession, carols and refreshments at the harbour. Father Christmas is expected to make an appearance, and proceeds support the lifesaving work of Clovelly RNLI.
Pick up a last-minute gift in Great Torrington
Sunday 20 December 2026 | Great Torrington Pannier Market, 10am–4pm
Still searching for a special present? The Last-Minute Christmas Makers Market brings local artisans, crafters and food and drink producers together for a final festive shopping day.
Whether you’re planning a festive day out or a winter break, North Devon offers plenty of opportunities to shop local, enjoy seasonal food and celebrate with the community. Check event websites before setting off for the latest timings, travel information and any updates.