Festive fun coming to Dartmoor as Moretonhampstead lights up for Christmas

Moretonhampstead is preparing to welcome residents and visitors for its annual Christmas Lights Switch-On and Market, taking place in the town square on Saturday 29 November. 

The community event, which runs from 2:00pm to 6:00pm, marks the start of the town’s festive season and is expected to draw families from across Dartmoor and the Teign Valley.

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A full programme of live performances will take place throughout the afternoon. 

Musician Dickon Fell will open the event at 2:00pm, followed by the Folk Orchestra at 2:30pm. 

Footloose will perform at 3:10pm, with Dartmoor Harmony taking the stage at 3:40pm. 

At 4:20pm, local performer Chris Back will provide further live music. 

From 5:00pm, Moor Voices will lead a community carol sing-along.

Shortly after 5:00pm, Father Christmas and his elves are scheduled to arrive to meet children and take part in the switch-on ceremony. 

ABOVE: Family-friendly events are taking place all day (Credit: Moretonhampstead Town Council)

The Christmas lights will officially be illuminated at 5:30pm, marking one of the most anticipated moments of the day. 

Moretonhampstead’s Primary School Choir will perform following the switch-on at approximately 5:45pm.

Alongside the performances, a Christmas market will run for the duration of the event, featuring stalls from local makers, craft producers, community groups and charities. 

Items on offer will include handmade gifts, artwork and seasonal treats, as well as refreshments.

Parish Clerk Samantha Parkin said the annual event remains an important fixture in the town’s calendar. 

“We’re delighted to bring the Christmas Lights Switch-On and Market back to the centre of Moretonhampstead, it’s a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together, support local makers and traders, and enjoy an afternoon of festive entertainment. 

“Events like this can only happen thanks to our fantastic volunteers, whose help is absolutely invaluable.”