We are fast approaching December, and Christmas celebrations and festive activities are kicking off in Plymouth!
The Christmas Lights Switch On in the City Centre, as well as the Barbican and Sutton Harbour area, have already taken place (if you haven’t done so already, we recommend taking a stroll with some friends to see the festive lights one evening!).
Late night shopping in Plymouth started earlier this month and runs until December 21st, with many shops open until 9pm every Thursday before Christmas, as well as activities and events inside Drakes Circus!
Plymouth’s Winter Wonderland is on from November 24th and runs until January 1s in Central Park. For anyone who keen to do some ice skating this Christmas, there is an impressive ice rink open 7 days a week, with sessions every hour! You can also find a huge music arena hosting some incredible local and national musical talent, festive food stalls from local vendors, and a Christmas Bar serving festive alcoholic beverages as well as hot drinks to keep you warm as you explore the Enchanted Forest or Winter Wonderland Village.
What’s coming up?
The Plymouth Christmas Market
On November 30th, the annual Plymouth Christmas Market will return to the Piazza in the City Centre! According to Visit Plymouth, there will be over 50 traders from across the South West selling their products, drinks, and delicious foods in the traditional wooden cabins decorated with fairy lights, tinsel, and sparkles! The Plymouth Christmas Market will run until December 17th, with free entry and so much to see and experience, it is a great place to do some Christmas shopping and enjoy some festive treats.
Make Space Makers Market
Running from November 27th until the 3rd December, Make Space Makers Market will take place on Cornwall Street, Plymouth, which will feature 12 local artists exhibiting and selling pieces of their work, such as prints, jewellery, and ceramics. This a great spot to do some Christmas shopping if you are someone who likes to support small businesses and local artists!
Christmas Market at the Aquarium
On November 30th, the National Marine Aquarium will host an adult-only Sustainable Ocean Friendly Christmas market at the aquarium! This event is free for annual pass holders only, however, you must still book a slot!
Santa Fun Run
On December 3rd, many will gather dressed as Santa to run, jog, or walk the Barbican and Waterfront in aid of Jeremiah’s Journey and Shekinah. There are two routes, one of approximately 4k, and the other 2.5k. Take part in this event and receive your own Santa costume and medal when you finish! Find out more and register here.
Festive Good Food & Craft Market
Royal William Yard’s Christmas market is open throughout November on Sundays, and open on Sundays and Wednesdays throughout December, situated inside the iconic Melville building and courtyard. This is a great place to find stalls offer unique gifts from independent traders, as well as crafts and choir.
Christmas at Theatre Royal Plymouth
Experience the festive season at the Theatre Royal Plymouth this year with performances and events taking place up until Christmas, including the Winter Lights and Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas. Theatre Royal Plymouth is the largest and best-attended regional producing theatre in the UK, located on Royal Parade just a 10-minute walk from the University of Plymouth campus.
Find more events and activities taking place in Plymouth this Christmas: Christmas Events - Visit Plymouth
UPSU festive events and activities will be listed on our events page on our website here.