Illustration of two knitted figures sharing a candle on a small table beside a snowman in a snowy holiday market (Christmas at Princesshay)
Christmas Markets

Christmas at Princesshay

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Princesshay transforms into a winter wonderland for Christmas 2025, featuring a vibrant Christmashay Village with local artisan stalls and delicious street food. Visitors can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere with thousands of twinkling lights, a magnificent Christmas tree, and charming decorations. Enjoy live entertainment, from dazzling street theatre to local choirs, and don't miss the chance to meet Santa every Sunday for a photo opportunity.

All ages $$

Plan Your Visit

Last year

Neighborhood

City Centre

Featured Performers

  • SPARK WorldBeaters

Food & Drink

Street food and local bar available

Parking

Car parks available. Park & Ride service is recommended.

Accessibility

Information available on accessibility.

Location

Princesshay · 9 Catherine Street, Exeter EX1 1QA Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, shoppers, festive atmosphere seekers

Vibe

Festive, cheerful, community-oriented

Energy Level

Low to medium

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low (mostly indoor/covered areas, but some outdoor elements)

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early on Sundays to meet Santa, as queues can form quickly, especially for photo opportunities.
  • Check the 'festive-fun-at-princesshay' link for the most up-to-date schedule of performances and events, as these can vary.
  • Explore the Christmashay Village on a weekday evening for a potentially less crowded experience, especially if you want to browse the artisan stalls.
  • Utilize the Park & Ride service to avoid city centre traffic and parking fees, then enjoy a short walk to Princesshay.
  • Bring cash for smaller market traders and food vendors, as not all may accept card payments.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Late night shopping on Thursdays until 8pm from November 20th.
  • SPARK WorldBeaters performances on Thursday, November 20th.
  • Charity Christmas Trees Festival.
  • Santa Sundays with photo opportunities and donations to Vranch House.

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do the Christmas lights turn on?

The Christmas lighting displays will shine bright from Friday, November 14th, in line with the rest of the city centre.

Is there an official light switch-on event?

No, there is no official light switch-on event on November 14th, but there is a packed program of events throughout the festive period.

What kind of traders can I expect in the Christmashay Village?

The village will feature a rotating program of local businesses, including jewellers, craft makers, candle sellers, artists, potters, and soap makers, alongside street food vendors.

How can I get to Princesshay?

Princesshay is easily accessible by bus and train, with both stations a short walk away. Driving is also an option, with recommended Park & Ride services.

What is the suggested donation for meeting Santa?

A suggested donation of £2.50 per child is requested for a photo with Santa, with all proceeds going to Vranch House.

Browse Christmas in Exeter

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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