Dave Thomas: Foxhole Christmas Extravaganza brings festive cheer to the community

On Sunday 30 November, the community of Foxhole came alive with festive cheer as the annual Foxhole Christmas Extravaganza lit up outside the Foxhole shops, and what a magical afternoon it was.

Families, neighbours and friends gathered in the crisp winter air for singing, stalls, and a very special visit from Santa Claus, who made sure every child went home with a present.

The heart of the afternoon was the live entertainment stage, brilliantly hosted by local radio station Palm Torbay. Local star Lea Millman enthralled the crowd with her performances and a huge thank-you goes to Jay from Palm Torbay for his tireless efforts bringing the stage to life.

Children’s eyes lit up when the “rodeo reindeer” made its usual appearance. It really is one of the highlights of the day and the atmosphere was full of laughter, festive joy, and community warmth.

This beloved event has now been a fixture in Foxhole for more than ten years. It was originally the brainchild of councillors Jeanette Richards and David Thomas and it remains a testament to their vision for bringing people together at Christmas.

This year’s success would not have been possible without the dedication of community builder Sarah, together with councillors Jackie Thomas and Yvonne Twelves, who secured funding and pulled together not only the practical arrangements that were needed, but a team of volunteers to help with all the work that an event of this style brings.

A special mention also goes to Jonathan and Catherine Olivero, who were on site throughout, along with their two-week-old baby Ezra, enjoying their very first Christmas together. Their support, at such a special moment for their family, summed up the real spirit of the day.

The community once again showed how much this event means to Foxhole. Residents spoke warmly of how the Extravaganza really kick-starts Christmas in the area; a moment when the lights, music and shared excitement signal that the festive season has truly begun.

The smell of hot food, the sound of carols and pop favourites, and children laughing together all helped create that unmistakable Christmassy feeling. Events like the Foxhole Christmas Extravaganza matter not just because they entertain, but because they bring people together. They offer a chance for neighbours to catch up, for new friendships to be made, and for families to share memories that will last long after the decorations come down.

A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who came along, joined in, helped organise, donated their time or simply shared in the joy. Here’s to many more years of the rodeo reindeer rides, live music and memories made; and to all of us carrying forward the spirit of kindness and community long after the lights go down.