The festive season is almost upon us, and North Devon is the perfect place to get into the Christmas spirit! From charming seaside markets to traditional town fairs, there are plenty of opportunities to pick up unique gifts, enjoy local food and drink, and soak in the atmosphere.
Christmas Markets:
Braunton Christmas Market – December 4th, from noon until 8 pm. With over 150 exhibitors, the market offers local crafts, food, and drinks, along with festive attractions at Braunton Countryside Centre North Devon Christmas Market - Braunton Countryside Centre
Affinity Devon Late Night Christmas Markets – On November 28th, December 5th, 12th and 19th, Bideford’s Affinity Shopping Village will host evening Christmas markets with Christmas-themed stalls, live music, workshops, a festive trail, mulled wine and delicious street food. Christmas Market 2024
The Big Sheep Christmas Farmers Market – Taking place on December 7th, 14th, and 21st from 9am - 2pm. Known as one of the largest indoor Christmas markets in the region, featuring festive stalls, locally produced food, and family-friendly activities. Christmas Market - The Big Sheep

Christmas Lights:
RHS Rosemoor Glow Winter Light Trail – From November 15 to December 28 in Torrington. This evening event lights up the gardens with festive displays, live music, and entertainment, providing a unique winter garden experience. RHS Glow Winter Illuminations at RHS Rosemoor | Festive Garden Light Show / RHS
Barnstaple: The light switch-on is set for Thursday, 28th November from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The event will include a Christmas Fayre, live music, and late-night shopping, with the lights officially switched on at 6:00 PM in Barnstaple Square. 🎉 Celebrate the Magic of the Season at Our Christmas Light Switch-On! 🎉
Bideford: The switch-on will take place on Sunday, 1st December at The Quay, with events running from noon until 7:00 PM Bideford Christmas Lights Switch On 2024 | Discover Bideford
Ilfracombe: Planned for Friday, 29th November, this event will feature a Christmas market, live music, and festive entertainment. Christmas and New Year - Visit Ilfracombe
Clovelly Christmas Lights, Sunday, 8 December, 4 pm to 10 pm. The Christmas lights turn-on is a magical time at Clovelly. Starting at 4 pm, a local brass band leads the procession down to the harbour with festive carols sung along the way. A hog roast, grog and other refreshments are available at the harbour and Lifeboat Station. Then Father Christmas will make a surprise visit. At 5 pm the switch is thrown and the entire village and harbour are lit up. It’s a fantastic sight and there’s a grand finale of fireworks to finish off. Entrance fee: £10 per car at the Visitor Centre after 3 pm. All proceeds to the RNLI.