Tuesday 8 November 2011

West Country Christmas light shows…

Don’t blink! The annual ritual of switching on the Christmas lights will be here before you know it as the countdown to Christmas gathers pace.

Exeter lays claim to one of the first great switch-ons – 24th November sees Heart FM radio host the entertainment with live music, pantomime favourites and a grand firework finale to kick off the festive season. Enjoy the bright lights from G31.

Truro City of Lights Festival
Truro will once again light up in spectacular fashion as the City of Lights festival delights the crowds on 16th November, with a dazzling procession of lanterns through the streets, carried by professional artists, Cornish school children and local community and youth groups. This year’s theme is ‘wildlife’. Be dazzled by S47.

For something slightly different, watch one of the largest processions of award-winning floats and walking groups in south Devon wend its way through South Brent on 26th November. The procession includes 100ft long floats from the Somerset circuit. Float off to A70.

Dunster by Candlelight
Dunster by Candlelight is holding its 25th anniversary on 1st and 2nd December, and the Lantern Lighting procession of stilt walkers and brightly costumed children starts at 5.30pm on the Friday at The Steep. Treat yourselves to a journey by steam train from Bishops Lydeard on the West Somerset Railway and there’s a courtesy bus transfer from Minehead Station to the village (or you can alight at Dunster Station and it’s a 20 minute walk). Wander by lantern light back to F45.

There are many other glittering events across the West Country, including Clovelly Christmas Lights on 4th December and Mousehole Harbour Lights on 17th December.

Browse through our holiday cottages to find a cosy place for a pre-Christmas break and use our ‘Explore the Area’ map to find festive events near your favourite holiday cottage.