Published November 21st, 2016
Final preparations are underway for the ninth Padstow Christmas Festival which takes place from Thursday 1 to Sunday 4 December 2016.
The award-winning free event is Cornwall’s largest food festival, with more than 50,000 visitors expected over the four days.
Padstow comes to life with a host of events in addition to the chef demo’s in the Sharp’s Chefs Theatre and the Festival Stage marquees. Visitors can also explore the traditional Christmas market, packed with more than 100 artisan crafts, food and drink producers from across the country.
On Friday evening Padstow lights up with a lantern parade. All are welcome to participate, as children are invited to show off their creations in a procession starting at 6.00pm. The parade is followed by a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the harbour at 8.30pm.
The Doom Bar Bandstand will bring live music to festival goers and features a set by Britain’s Got Talent finalist Josh Curnow on Saturday at 3.30pm. As well as a packed schedule of music, entertainers including stilt walkers will be performing throughout the town.
Tina Evans, festival organiser, said: “There is something for everyone at this year’s festival. We are looking forward to welcoming Father Christmas back to Padstow, who will be arriving on Friday evening. Children can enjoy a visit to see him in his grotto where he can be found over the weekend.”
The Santa Fun Run and Cycle, raising money for Cornwall Hospice Care, also returns to the festival on Saturday with a new theme: Santas versus Elves. The event starts at 10.00am as cyclists set off from Wadebridge, arriving in time for the fun run at 1.oopm in Padstow. Participants are encouraged to pick a team, Santas or Elves, and will be provided with a costume. Those wishing to take part can register at www.cornwallhospice.co.uk.
Local shops will also be joining in with the festivities over the four days. Many will have special festival offers and will be opening late throughout the weekend.
Chef Nathan Outlaw will open the festival at 12.00pm on Thursday with a demo in the Sharp’s Chefs Theatre. Other big name chefs appearing throughout the weekend include Tom Kerridge, Rick Stein and Paul Ainsworth.
Keep checking the festival website as more updates will be added in the coming weeks. Visitors are reminded that no dogs are allowed in the marquees.
