Illuminating the Season: The Magic of Candlelit Dartmouth A


s late autumn turns into winter, there is a distinct shift in the air along


the banks of the River Dart. The historic harbour town of Dartmouth - famous for its narrow cobbled streets and timber-framed buildings - prepares to throw off the winter chill and wrap itself in a warm, festive glow. At the heart of this seasonal


transformation is Candlelit Dartmouth, a deeply cherished community weekend that now acts as the official springboard for the month-long ‘Dartmouth in December’ celebrations. Held annually over the final


Friday and Saturday of November, Candlelit Dartmouth is where pag- eantry, tradition, and coastal charm meet. By day, the town buzzes with lively activity. Royal Avenue Gardens and the Old Market are transformed into bustling festive hubs, packed with artisan gift stalls, local produce, and warm seasonal treats. Enticing scents of mulled wine and freshly roasted delicacies float through the air as entertain- ers, musicians, and choir groups fill the air with music. Local shops along Foss Street, Fairfax Street and beyond join in the fun, keeping their doors open late for those searching for unique, locally handcrafted gifts. As dusk falls on


Friday, the true magic of the event


The undisputed climax of Can- dlelit is the famous Lantern Proces- sion. Hundreds of hand-made pa- per and willow lanterns - crafted by local schools, community groups, and families - snake their way from the Old Market Square through the historic quarter. This magical sight casts a warm, flickering light against the ancient streetscapes before


unfolds. The town’s official Christ- mas lights are switched on, illumi- nating the historic water’s edge and surrounding streets. Children and families gather in anticipation for special visits from Father Christ- mas - who makes a grand arrival to the town by boat if the tide is in, or on a fire engine if not!


concluding in Royal Avenue Gardens, capturing the true spirit of commu- nity and togetherness that defines South Devon. While Candlelit Dartmouth


provides an unforgettable opening weekend, it is only the first chapter of Dartmouth in December. Throughout the entire month, Dartmouth keeps the festive spirit burning bright. Visitors can witness the iconic Train of Lights glistening on the river waters as the illuminated steam railway travels into Kingswear. Each weekend hosts traditional events such as the Fatstock Show, RNLI Crabpots illuminations, and the more modern SantaCon. Carols on the Cove and NYE Fireworks on the harbour add to the sense of a community in celebration. The town’s array of independent boutiques, galleries, and award- winning eateries remain brimming with seasonal menus and holiday cheer right up to New Years Day. Whether you are


a lifelong resident or planning a winter getaway to the coast, Dartmouth


in December offers a Christmas experience like no other. Step into the light, soak up the atmosphere, and start your festive season in style. To view the full programme of events, lantern workshop dates, and festive itineraries, visit exploredartmouth. co.uk/whatson.


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52  |  Page 53  |  Page 54  |  Page 55  |  Page 56  |  Page 57  |  Page 58  |  Page 59  |  Page 60  |  Page 61  |  Page 62  |  Page 63  |  Page 64  |  Page 65  |  Page 66  |  Page 67  |  Page 68  |  Page 69  |  Page 70  |  Page 71  |  Page 72  |  Page 73  |  Page 74  |  Page 75  |  Page 76  |  Page 77  |  Page 78  |  Page 79  |  Page 80  |  Page 81  |  Page 82  |  Page 83  |  Page 84  |  Page 85  |  Page 86  |  Page 87  |  Page 88  |  Page 89  |  Page 90  |  Page 91  |  Page 92  |  Page 93  |  Page 94  |  Page 95  |  Page 96  |  Page 97  |  Page 98  |  Page 99  |  Page 100