Exeter will really be getting into the festive spirit tonight following the annual Christmas lights switch-on.
InExeter will host and celebrate the city’s Christmas lights switch on event with a new festival for all the family ending with the city’s lights being switched on at a new time of 5pm.
City residents and visitors can enjoy the celebrations from 11am on the Sunday when a timetable of live music and entertainment will get underway.
The annual event has moved to a Sunday, and the city will host a full day of family friendly, festive events, including crafting activities, face painting and live music from local musicians.
Bob Dennison, Stagecoach South West’s Managing Director, said: “Our support as Travel Partner for this year’s Christmas Lights switch-on is part of our on-going commitment to Exeter residents, shops and businesses.
"It’s a key period for local traders and we’re delighted to be playing our part to help ensure shoppers have a smooth ride into the city centre for the lights switch-on.
“We are working closely with the city’s business improvement district, InExeter, to put extra buses on for the big day. It’s sure to be a fantastic event. "
Ann Hunter, manager of InExeter said: “We’re delighted that Stagecoach South West is helping support this year’s Christmas Lights switch-on and festivities as the official Travel Partner.
"The team at Stagecoach have been accommodating, ensuring we will be able to offer shoppers a fantastic public transport solution to getting in and out of Exeter for the Christmas Lights switch-on and throughout the festive period."
Here's everything you need to know if you're thinking of attending the event
What time is the light switch-on?
The Christmas light switch-on takes place on Sunday, November 18, at a new time of 5pm.
Where can I park?
The city centre is expected to be extremely busy and car parks will fill up very quickly.
If you are travelling by car here is a round-up of where you can park in Exeter:
- Guildhall
- Mary Arches
- NCP Car Park
- Triangle car Park
- Okehampton Street
- Matford Park and Ride
- Princesshay
- Bartholomew
ISCA Car Park
Park and Ride bus times
The Park and Ride RED service between Honiton Road Park & Ride and Princesshay will run every Thursday from 15th November until 20th December.
Additional journeys from Honiton Road P&R will depart at the below times on Thursdays only.
2025
2055
2125
2155
Additional journeys from Paris St will depart at the below times on Thursdays only
2010
2040
2140
2210
Christmas in Devon
What activities are on?
Festive craft activities will include the opportunity to make a mini Christmas Wreath and Christmas garlands, as well as paper cut angels and snowflakes and paper shape Christmas decorations, a make your own Christmas cracker, Christingle and cards workshop and very magical willow wand making classes.
Throughout the day shoppers will also be entertained by amazing street performances including, a Hula Hooping extravaganza, a stilt-walking Fairy Godmother and a Winter Fairy whose stunning costume literally lights up the dark winter evenings as she thrills the audience with her skilful contact juggling. The Crealy Christmas sleigh along with two elves will also be on hand to make families feel extra Christmassy during the Sunday celebrations.
