Get into the festive spirit in Exeter this weekend
Published: 24 November 2023
Christmas really gets into gear on Saturday 25 November with a sleigh load of festive delights going on in the city centre.
InExeter is hosting its Winter in Exeter event which promises to be a fun-filled day with pop-up performances and family-themed free activities.
Head over to Guildhall Shopping Centre for a chance to meet Batman and snap a photo with him and his iconic Batmobile.
For those who are more of a craft enthusiast, Tonic Creatives will be hosting willow wand star workshops at the shopping centre, where people can take part in a winter parade in the afternoon.
Throughout the day, keep an eye out for exciting pop-up performances in the city, including Exeter Roller Derby displays, circus acts, Morris dancers, live music and much more.
An experience not to miss on Saturday is a giant willow puppet called Sidwella, who will be paraded on the streets as part of the Winter InExeter celebration.
The puppet is part of a partnership between InExeter and St Sidwell’s Community Centre, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund to celebrate Exeter’s community and heritage.
Inspired by the tale of Sidwella, the beloved patron saint of Exeter, local artists Burn the Curtain were commissioned to build the impressive structure, bringing Sidwella to life on an epic scale. Don’t miss this performance as Sidwella takes centre stage on Sidwell Street from 4.30pm.
And there’s lots more happening throughout the day. Look out for:
- Running Dog Theatre Company's spectacular 'The Polar Bear' walkabout performance
- Reindeer Stilt Men, Prancer, and Dance
- Great Western Morris Dancers
- Real Steel Band
- Magical and fascinating characters from the past at Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery
- Exeter Street Band
- Drum Devon joined by local charity CEDA and Tonic Creatives with a willow wand parade
- Lantern Workshops at St Sidwell’s Community Centre
Matt Jarratt, Chair of Directors at InExeter, said: “Exeter, as the regional capital, witnesses an increase in visitors during the festive season as people make special trips to the city for Christmas shopping and to experience all that Exeter has to offer.
“The ambiance and lighting play a pivotal role in creating that magical Christmas feeling, and as contributing businesses, we take pride in delivering this experience for the public to enjoy.”
A plethora of exciting activities await in the city this Christmas. InExeter have produced a guide to Christmas in Exeter with a digital version available: https://bit.ly/ChristmasinExeter2023.