Choose Your Christmas Tree
Whether you’re choosing pre-cut or selecting a ‘live one’, make an experience out of starting your home Christmas decoration. Little ones will be more inclined to help decorate the tree knowing they’ve chosen it, and it’s a great way to teach about the cycle of planting trees. Find a Christmas tree farm near you: www.pickyourownchristmas tree.org.uk

Meet the Reindeer
Head to Cotley Farm, near Whimple, and meet the very special new addition to the family-run farm as, this year, a baby reindeer was born and welcomed to the herd. Meet the new arrival from now until Christmas Eve for a truly magical experience. Feed the reindeer Norwegian lichen in the barns, and watch them graze happily in front of rolling countryside views. What’s more, if you buy a Christmas Tree your entry ticket will be refunded. Book your visit and find out more at www.cotleychristmas.co.uk 

Christmas Light Trails
Brighten the dark nights with a festive light show! 

Go back in time to enjoy Christmas at the Castle (27 November – 30 December) as Powderham becomes aglow, or travel further afield to RHS Garden, Rosemoor, for their fantastic ‘Glow’ event from 16th November – 30th December, which this year has been extended into the woodland. With light and atmospheric soundscapes, Christmas foodie treats, and plenty of family entertainment, it’s a spectacle for all. You could also try Paignton Zoo’s brand new ‘GloWild’ interactive light experience (17 November – 2 January) for a dazzling adventure through story and light.

Looking for free options? Torquay’s Bay of Lights offers over a mile of tunnel lights to walk through. Otherwise, why not take a local walk around your town or village, or a neighbourhood nearby, to see some impressive homemade efforts.  

See a Christmas Show
Whether it’s the classic Dick Whittington, some Disney magic, or homage to the hilarious Nativity Christmas Musical, a Christmas show is a great way to unite the family. See our What’s On guide for shows happening near you!

Christmas Concerts
Rejoice at the sound of a local chorus singing your favourite Christmas songs. The awe-inspiring Carols in the Cathedral (13 – 14th December) is a popular one, or get the
full manger experience with a magical evening at Carols by Candlelight at Sidmouth’s Donkey Sanctuary (8th December). 

Festive Fun Runs
Why not replace your usual run with a Christmas fun run? Exeter is hosting a 2.5k and 5k run on 3rd December or head to the beach (yes in December) for Age UK’s Exmouth Santa Run on 10th December. Need a longer route? Try the ‘Extremely Jolly’ 10k at Escot on 9th December – with 30m waterslide finale!