The Ilfracombe Christmas countdown has begun – your guide to a feast of festive events

Ilfracombe is looking forward to a bumper programme of festive celebrations this Christmas with a lantern parade, sparkling lights, festive markets, independent shopping and a Winter Wonderland among the offerings.

With just over 40 sleeps left until Christmas Day, the town is gearing up for a very festive season as Visit Ilfracombe and Ilfracombe Town Council join forces with local businesses and event organisers to showcase the town’s best.

The festive programme begins a little early with a Christmas Art Market at North Devon Resort this Saturday and Sunday (November 14-15), before the celebrations gather pace later in the month.

Christmas in Ilfracombe wouldn’t be Christmas without Combe Christmas and the Lighting of the Lights, as the town’s popular main kickstart for the festive season returns on Friday, November 27.

Thousands will descend on the war memorial ‘square’ to watch the big switch on, alongside entertainment, Santa’s sleigh, food, music and merriment which will continue right along a packed High Street as shops stay open late and performers entertain.

This year's celebrations will also feature a lantern parade, with ‘Boats of Ilfracombe’ as this year’s theme, celebrating the town's maritime heritage.

Free lantern-making workshops will take place at The Lantern Centre on Saturday and Sunday, November 21-22 supported by funding from Ilfracombe Town Council's Grants Scheme, to give families and the wider community the chance to get involved.

Ilfracombe town councillor Mel Turnbull, who is helping to lead plans for the parade, said: “’Boats of Ilfracombe’ is a wonderful way to celebrate our town's maritime heritage and we're looking forward to seeing a colourful procession of illuminated boats through the streets.

“Following the success of last year's event, the town council is delighted to help fund the free workshops, giving people of all ages the chance to get creative and be part of something special.”

The annual Christmas Tree Festival at Pip & Jim's Church runs from Thursday, November 26 to Wednesday, December 2, while on Monday, November 30 celebrations move to the harbour and seafront for the switching on of the lights at Pip & Jim's Church, with carol singing and shops and bars opening for the evening.

Winter Wonderland returns to Bicclescombe Park on Saturday and Sunday, December 5-6, transforming the park with sparkling illuminations. Visitors can stroll through the magical light displays, browse stalls selling gifts and other goodies and enjoy seasonal refreshments.

Ilfracombe Christmas at a glance

Saturday, December 5 also sees Ilfracombe Shopping Super Saturday, with independent retailers offering special promotions and discounts. With the Farmers' Market taking place too, there's plenty of reason to head into town, particularly as Ilfracombe Town Council is providing free parking in the Ropery Road and High Street car parks every Saturday throughout December.

A new addition to this year's calendar is the Cool Yule Bazaar on Thursday, December 10, bringing artisan shopping, food, drink and carol singing to Belgrave Promenade.

You can view the full Ilfracombe Christmas events programme at www.visitilfracombe.co.uk/christmas .