Fireworks, Chase and Father Christmas return to Lappa Valley

The rides at Lappa Valley barely slow down before the next event rolls in. This autumn brings vintage engines, a visit from a very famous pup, two nights of fireworks over an old mine, and then Father Christmas himself, all before the year is out.

The family attraction at St Newlyn East, near Newquay, says bookings for its forthcoming events are going well, with positive feedback from visitors this summer adding to the team’s enthusiasm for the months ahead.

Original engines lead the way

The programme opens with Original Engines Weekend, running from Saturday 10 to Monday 12 October. The event celebrates the locomotives that have shaped Lappa Valley‘s story over the past 52 years, with rides available behind original engines including flagship locomotive Zebedee, a familiar sight to generations of visiting families.

Chase from PAW Patrol pays a visit

On Sunday 25 and Monday 26 October, Chase from PAW Patrol visits Lappa Valley. The character will make appearances at intervals throughout each day, giving young fans the chance to see him during a family day out. Standard admission prices apply, with free admission for Lappa Valley Members, though pre-booking is essential for everyone. Bookings open at 10am this Monday, 14 September.

Fireworks light up East Wheal Rose

Later that week, on Friday 30 and Saturday 31 October, the valley provides a dramatic setting for the Fireworks Spectaculars. Families travel by train through the twilight to East Wheal Rose, where festoon lighting and the illuminated historic Engine House set the scene for the evening.

Alongside the display, visitors can enjoy the Engine Shed Soft Play, Adventure Golf and rides on the Lakeside Railway before dark, with food and warming drinks available from the café. Tickets are on sale now, and admission is strictly by advance booking.

Ben Harding, Operations Director at Lappa Valley, said: “These are really exciting times for Lappa Valley. We’ve had so much lovely feedback from families this Summer, and it means a great deal to the whole team to hear about the memories people are making here.”

“Bookings for our Fireworks and Father Christmas events are going really well, and there’s a real sense of excitement as we get everything ready. A huge amount of care goes into these occasions, from preparing the trains to the little details that make a family’s visit feel special.”

“For some families, these events are already an annual tradition. For others, this will be their first visit, and we can’t wait to welcome them on board.”

Father Christmas steams back in

The year’s festive finale begins on Saturday 28 November, when Father Christmas at Lappa Valley starts its run on selected dates through to Christmas Eve. A train journey through the winter countryside leads to a festive day out, including a visit to Father Christmas in his grotto, a present for every child, seasonal refreshments and opportunities to play.

Quieter trains for SEND families

Dedicated SEND trains will run at 9.30am, 10.30am and 11.30am on Saturday 5 December, offering adaptations including quieter music, static lighting and brighter grottos. These services can be booked by calling 01872 510317 between 9am and 5pm.

Full event details and booking information are available on the Lappa Valley website, where Original Engines Weekend is the first date on the calendar, just under a month away.