Whether you’re new to the area or just looking for some fun new festive activities to try, we guarantee you’ll find something exciting to do in Cornwall this holiday season. Here are some of our favourite family events for 2019.

Mousehole Christmas lights

All Christmas light displays are magical, but there’s something particularly special about the Mousehole harbour lights. Featuring more than 7000 bulbs and 5.5 miles of cable, the displays are inspired by Cornwall’s marine heritage, and every year, sea serpents, fishing boats, and whales light up the pretty harbour village in a festive blaze of glory. This year’s switch-on (accompanied by an open-air carol service) takes place on Sat Dec 14th at 6.30pm and the lights can be seen throughout Jan 4th, 2020.

Ice skating at the Eden Project

Good news for ice skating fans – Cornwall’s only indoor rink will be open until Feb 23rd, 2020, giving you plenty of time to perfect your pirouettes. With a variety of activities (including parent and toddler play times, skating lessons, and family fun sessions), there’s something to suit all ages. Visit during December to get the full festive Eden Project experience, which includes the spectacular Avenue of Lights, a chance to visit Father Christmas’s grotto, and regular Christmas concerts performed by a traditional brass band.

Christmas at Trerice

Experience Christmas in 1573 as the National Trust property returns to Tudor times for an evening of festive merriment and a menu inspired by Elizabethan tastes and trends. In addition to three festive Christmas banquets over the holiday period, visitors can try their hand at making festive gifts and decorations, visit Father Christmas in the drawing room to hear tales and traditions of Christmas past, and enjoy weekend carolling performances in the barn restaurant.

Padstow Christmas Festival

Padstow’s festive foodie event is now in its 12th year and looks set to be bigger and better than ever. Featuring cooking demonstrations from some of the country’s best known chefs (including Rick Stein, Phil Vickery, and Nathan Outlaw), huge Christmas market full of locally made produce, charity Santa fun run, and Friday night fireworks display, the harbourside festival (held from 5th-8th December) is a must for the holiday diary.

Santa by Steam

Ramp up the festive excitement with a visit to Santa’s grotto via steam train. Bodmin & Wenford Railway’s popular Santa by Steam experience includes an hour-long return journey on a traditional steam train, mince pie and seasonal drink for adults, and photo with Santa and gift for each child. Trips are available to book between Nov 30th and Dec 24th.

Looking for advice on family-friendly areas to live in Cornwall? The expert team at Lillicrap Chilcott will be happy to answer any of your questions. See all available properties on our website or call us on 01872 273473 today.