There’s something truly magical about Padstow at Christmas — the sparkling harbour lights, the smell of mulled wine, roasting chestnuts, and the sound of laughter drifting through the streets. For many years, Padstow Christmas Festival brought that magic to life, drawing locals and visitors alike to celebrate the best of Cornwall’s food, drink, and festive cheer.
When the Festival sadly ended abruptly in 2023, it left a huge gap in the town’s festive calendar — and in the hearts of all who loved it. But this year, that Christmas sparkle is returning!
With a new team at the helm, we’re thrilled to introduce Padstow Christmas Fayre — a brand new, community-led free to attend four-day food event bringing festive joy, local food, and Christmas spirit back to Padstow.
Padstow Christmas Fayre is organised by Cornish event specialists Mission Code (who’re also the same team behind Porthleven Food Festival and St Ives Food & Drink Festival). They’re working together with local businesses, residents and community groups who share one goal – to bring people together in celebration of Cornish food and drink, and what makes Padstow so special especially in winter.
While this is a brand-new event, many of the things loved about the old festival will be returning — from fantastic chef demonstrations in the Chef’s Theatre, to street food stalls, an artisan Christmas Market, Christmas lights, plenty of festive treats, plus an enchanting lantern parade and firework display.
The Fayre is working closely with local traders, chefs, and producers to create a joyful, sustainable event that celebrates our vibrant community and supports local businesses at this important time of year.
This new event belongs to Padstow — shaped by the community, for the community.
The organisers of the Fayre are passionate about creating something that feels authentic, welcoming, and full of festive warmth — a chance for residents and visitors alike to come together, celebrate the season, and enjoy the best of Padstow’s food and creativity.
It’s also a wonderful opportunity to support brilliant local charities, helping them to raise vital funds and awareness. For 2025 the Fayre is proud to be supporting The Fisherman’s Mission, Hospitality Action, The Padstow Lifeboat and the RNLI.
The Padstow Christmas Fayre will take place from December 4-7th in the heart of Padstow.
The Fayre is free to attend, including the Chef’s Theatre – there will be seated and standing options allocated on a first come first served basis. Or for those wanted to guarantee seating close to the stage, VIP Chef’s Theatre tickets are also available to purchase. Click here for more info.
We can’t wait to see the harbour sparkling again with festive magic — and to welcome everyone back for a new era of Christmas celebrations in Padstow. It’s going to be something truly special.
