Winter in St Ives might be quieter than the summer rush, but come December, the town takes on a new kind of magic. Twinkling lights line the cobbled streets, shop windows glow with festive displays, and a month-long calendar of Christmas events brings life to the harbour. Behind it all is St Ives in December, the team that brings Christmas to our little town.
December is fast becoming one of the best times of the year to be in St Ives and it’s thanks to the SID (St Ives in December) committee that plans and promotes the town’s seasonal events. They organise the big crowd-pleasers, like the arrival of Father Christmas by RNLI lifeboat, festive markets, lantern parades, and street performances. They also act as the town’s festive noticeboard, sharing events from across St Ives via their website and social media:
If you’re wondering what’s on this December, start with them. From live music and craft fairs to late-night shopping and family activities, their listings are regularly updated and cover everything from large-scale events to local pop-ups.
Festive Highlights
- Santa’s arrival by lifeboat – a much-loved evening that draws crowds to the harbour
- Christmas markets – packed with local gifts, food, drink and atmosphere
- Live performances – choirs, brass bands and local acts throughout the town
- Boxing day swims
- New years eve fancy dress party in st ives
You’ll also spot the popular Christmas window displays as you walk around town, as local shops get creative for a bit of friendly competition and plenty of festive charm.
Make a Weekend of It
December is a great time to visit St Ives. It’s quieter, more relaxed, and the town feels different in the best way, think wild coastlines, bracing walks, cosy pubs, and a lively calendar of events.
You don’t need to feel like you are wasting precious pre-christmas shopping time because Fore Street in St Ives is one of the best shopping streets in the south west.
There’s plenty of choice for places to stay, from self-catering cottages to seaside hotels, and a huge range of cafés, bars and restaurants for warming up after a day out.
www.stives-cornwall.co.uk/shopping
www.stives-cornwall.co.uk/accommodation
www.stives-cornwall.co.uk/food-drink
And if you’re around on Boxing Day, don’t miss the Porthminster Beach swim — a brisk tradition, always more fun to watch than to join!
Your Guide to What’s On
The St Ives in December team keeps everything up to date on their website and social channels, so if you’re planning a visit (or you’re local and want to see what’s on), it’s your best source of info.
Find the full event guide: stivesindecember.com
