Princesshay's festive season kicks off this week with new events

The festive season at Exeter’s Princesshay is set to start this week with entertainment and events for all the family.

Rotating traders, seasonal food and drink, and “inclusive” experiences are coming to the shopping centre on Catherine Street, according to organisers.

Princesshay’s Christmas market and ‘Mistletoe Bar’ will run from this Friday, November 13 to Thursday, December 31, across Princesshay Square, Bedford Street, and the main shopping mall.

It is understood there will be a “varied selection” of local crafts, bakes, and gifts as well as street food and warming winter drinks on offer.

The shopping centre has also introduced ‘Late Night Thursdays’, when extended shopping hours will see performances from acts such as SPARK! Drummers and Bouncing Snowmen.

Shops will remain open each Thursday until 8pm on the lead-up to Christmas.

‘Santa Sundays’ will return in 2026 for local families to meet Santa, receive a small gift, and have their photo taken.

New for this year are ‘Santa Saturdays’. Led by the Deaf Academy, those who are deaf or hard of hearing can meet a ‘Signing Santa’.

‘Signing Santa’ sessions will take place on Saturday, December 5 and December 12 between 11am and 3pm.

“Christmas is always a special time at Princesshay, bringing people together in the heart of Exeter to enjoy the festive atmosphere and support businesses in the city centre,” said Hannah Overton, Princesshay marketing and commercial manager.

“By extending our Christmas programme this year, we’re creating even more opportunities for visitors to spend time with family and friends, make lasting memories, and enjoy a free festive entertainment programme throughout the season.”

You can find out more here.