Edward Hain Centre to Host Christmas Fête on 15th December

The Edward Hain Centre is rounding off a busy year of growth with a Christmas Fête on Monday 15th December from 5 to 7 pm at its Albany Place base in St Ives. Entry is free and everyone is welcome.

Something for All Ages

The fête promises a mix of seasonal entertainment and festive fun. Santa will be dropping by for younger visitors, while the St Erth Concert Band will perform their Christmas programme. Craft stalls will also be on hand for anyone hoping to pick up a few gifts.

Mince Pie Bake Off Returns

One of the big draws is the Centre’s second Mince Pie Bake Off. This year’s winner will receive a carved wooden spoon, presented by St Ives Mayor, Johnnie Wells.

Anyone can enter and there is no entry fee. Last year saw 10 entries, with the winning spoon going to 17 year old Jasmine Taylor who, the Centre says, even beat a professional baker.

Sharron Goldingay, the Centre’s director, hopes plenty of new bakers will join in. “So baking newcomers shouldn’t be daunted,” says Sharron. “The more the merrier!”

The Centre would like to know in advance how many people plan to take part. Sharron says the person to contact is Claire, either by email at community.volunteering@edwardhaincentre.org.uk or by phone on 01736 691233.

Christmas Tree Trail Prize

Mayor Johnnie Wells will also present a small prize to the winner of the Christmas Tree Trail, which will be voted on by visitors from 8th to 12th December. More information is available on the Centre’s website at the Christmas Tree Trail page.

Some of the decorated trees will remain on display on the night of the fête, including a Teddy Tree where children can take a tiny teddy mascot for a school bag or kit bag.

Claire Sutcliffe, an EHC trustee, said the team is in high spirits after a strong year. “We’re really hoping for a fun event,” says Claire. “We’ve had quite the year especially with that wonderful Lottery Fund grant in September, and such a fabulous result from the Shanty Shout. Now it’s time to let down our hair and celebrate!”

📷Some of last year’s entrants (photo by Laura Evans)

Refreshments and Plans for 2026

No celebration would be complete without food and drink, and refreshments will be available throughout the evening. Staff are also hoping that some of the mince pies entered into the competition might be donated to help “add spice to the gathering” as the Centre looks ahead to further growth in 2026.

Craft Stalls Still Available

There is still time for crafters to rent a table for £20. Anyone interested should send a message via the Centre’s Facebook page.

The fête begins at 5 pm on Monday 15th December at 1 Albany Place, St Ives, TR26 2BS.