Bovey Tracey kicks off Christmas with festive market and big lights switch-on

Christmas officially begins in Bovey Tracey tomorrow (Saturday 22 November) with the town’s festive market and the big lights switch-on in Fore Street.

The High Street will be closed to traffic from 2pm when around 40 stallholders set up for the annual Christmas Street Fayre. 

Gift and craft stands, street food, mulled wine and carol singing will run through the afternoon.

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Santa is expected to arrive at about 2.30pm before making his way to his grotto at the Youth Café.

The Christmas lights will be switched on at 5pm, followed by an extra hour of trading at the street market and in the town’s shops.

Earlier in the day, the last dog-friendly Makers Gift Market of the year will take place at the Riverside Community Centre from 10am to 2pm, with local creators selling affordable, sustainable crafts.

Mayor Cllr Sheila Brooke said the town was looking forward to a busy and enjoyable day.

“We’re looking forward to a wonderful day in town and the start to Bovey’s festive season,” she said.

“There will be plenty of stalls to browse, and of course the lovely shops we have here all year round.

“We’ve lots of super places to eat and drink, whether you like to be indoors or out, and if you arrive by car we’ve got parking across town.

“There are also regular bus services from both Newton Abbot and Exeter so why not let someone else do the driving so you can enjoy a festive tipple?

“Here it is everyone, it’s Christmas 2025 and we can’t wait to welcome you.”

Several local organisations will be taking part, as confirmed on social media.

Bovey Paradiso will open from 4pm-7pm with free children’s crafts, mulled drinks, guided tours and a chance to meet their directors.

A Fairtrade stall will be selling Fairtrade goods, running a hamper raffle and offering free children’s colouring sheets.

Local schools will lead carol singing before the switch-on countdown.

Bovey Tracey Carnival organisers have said they are delighted the event is back after bad weather forced a cancellation last year.

They will also be selling tickets for their Christmas Raffle 2024/2025, after choosing to reuse last year’s printed tickets to save money for community causes.

Prizes include £100 cash, £50 cash, a glass-blowing experience and more, with the draw taking place on 20 December 2025.