Now that Halloween is over, there’s no better time to start getting into the Christmas spirit! Ottery St Mary is the perfect place to enjoy the festivities, with lots of unique community events taking place throughout November and December. There’s plenty of opportunity to get involved with lots of festive fun.
Kicking off the season is the Christmas Tree Festival. Running from Wednesday 22nd November until Sunday 26th November, you can visit Ottery St Mary’s Parish Church for a fantastic day out. Open from 11 am - 5 pm Monday to Saturday and 11 am to 4 pm on Sunday, this popular event attracts visitors from all over the region. Enjoy a variety of decorated Christmas trees, carol singing, craft stalls and refreshments. All proceeds go towards the church's upkeep and various community outreach programs. The festival also reopens from 6 pm until 9 pm on Friday 24th November to coincide with the Festive Cheer Parade and Late Night Shopping.
Why don’t you get involved with the Ottery St Mary Festive Cheer Parade and Late Night Shopping? Taking place on Friday 24th November, you’re in for an evening full of festive fun and community spirit. Starting at 4 pm, there are plenty of activities taking place throughout the evening with a full lineup yet to be announced. Previous years have included a variety of entertainers taking place in the parade including a steam engine, bands and choirs and of course, the torch-lit parade leading to the switching on of the town’s Christmas Lights! Make the most of local shops' late-night shopping opportunities and support locals this Christmas.
Want to get involved with some Christmas crafts? Wildwood Devon are holding a Festive Wreath Making workshop on Saturday 2nd December. Use natural locally sourced materials to create your very own Willow Wreath during the two-and-a-half-hour workshop. Decorate it with fresh evergreens, pine cones and other seasonal foliage, perfect for displaying on your front door. Enjoy a hot drink and mince pie to finish off the session, as well as an afternoon at the park to visit the animals.
Want to stay in Ottery St Mary for these events or during the festive season? There are plenty of places to stay for a cosy winter break such as Waxway Farm Holiday Cottages! Nestled below East Hill and with stunning views across the countryside, both Swallows and Bats Cottages offer a cosy retreat. With options for families or couples, there is the option for the perfect break.
If you’re looking for a touch of history with your stay, look no further than Cadhay House. Alongside the delightful Tudor Manor House are three-holiday cottages which are perfect for families or couples. These light and spacious properties offer fantastic views of the grounds and surrounding countryside, whilst also maintaining privacy.
Ottery St Mary has everything you could need for a delightful festive break or day trip!
