Truro’s Christmas Festivities: Key Dates to Light Up the City in 2024

With the festive season fast approaching, Truro BID has announced the main events for Christmas 2024, allowing local businesses to prepare for the holiday rush. From the Christmas Lights Switch-On to Father Christmas parades, here’s what to expect this year.

Festive Friday Kicks Off Celebrations

On Friday 22nd November, the city will officially switch on its Christmas lights during Festive Friday. Entertainment kicks off at 5pm, featuring Johnny Cowling and Lucy Start, with the lights coming on at 7pm. Hall for Cornwall is organising the entertainment, and Truro City Council is providing the stage. Truro BID encourages businesses to stay open later to capitalise on the larger crowd, as live music will continue until 8.15pm.

Late Night Shopping and Father Christmas Parade

Starting Wednesday 27th November, Truro’s popular Late Night Shopping returns. Businesses are invited to extend their hours until 9pm, with road closures in place to offer a traffic-free shopping experience. The same evening will feature the Father Christmas Parade at 6.30pm, where Father Christmas will be joined by dancers, musicians, and circus performers as they make their way through the city.

Father Christmas at the Museum

From Saturday 7th December, families can enjoy a unique Father Christmas at the Museum experience. Cornwall-based Coppice Theatre will present a walking theatre and grotto event at the Royal Cornwall Museum, supported by Truro BID.

Christmas Markets Add to the Festivities

The Truro Christmas Market will also return to Lemon Quay from Friday 22nd November, hosted by Truro Farmers Market and Cornwall Event Cabins. Additionally, the Boscawen Street Christmas Markets will run every Wednesday and Saturday from 23 November, offering festive gifts, local produce, and street food. Road closures will be in place to accommodate the markets, making the experience more enjoyable for shoppers.

These events are made possible through the support of the Truro BID levy payers and sponsorship from Coodes Solicitors, who are backing Festive Friday and the Father Christmas Parade.