Father Christmas Returns to Cornwall Museum with a New Story for 2025

Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery in Truro has announced the return of its much-loved Father Christmas at the Museum experience, promising a “magical storytelling and grotto experience inspired by Cornish nature.”

A Festive Tale with a Cornish Twist

This year’s story, A Chattering of Choughs, follows Lowen the Elf as he tells the tale of a flock of birds who come together to help the reindeer and save Christmas. The immersive experience will take place in the museum’s Nature Gallery, where the famous Trewinnard Coach has been “rewilded” and surrounded by Cornish flora and fauna.

Visitors will journey through twinkling lights and spellbinding projections before arriving at Father Christmas’ secret Kernow Office for a special visit, which includes a small gift and photo opportunity with the man himself.

The story and production have been created by experienced Artistic Director Michael Tonkin-Jones, who works regularly with award-winning Coppice Theatre but has taken this one on solo.

Michael said: “A Chattering of Choughs is a heartwarming, original story, rich in references to Cornish history and nature as well as festive folklore. But most of all it’s a tale full of joy, hope, and kindness, delivered in the beautiful surroundings of the museum.”

Spreading the Joy

At £8 a ticket, the museum says it wants to offer families a heart-warming festive outing that’s both fairly priced and accessible. This year also sees the introduction of a ‘pay it forward’ system, allowing anyone to purchase an extra ticket for a local child who might not otherwise be able to enjoy the experience.

Donated tickets will be distributed through community partners WILD, who support young parents across Cornwall.

Museum Co-Director Bryony Robins said: “Inclusivity and accessibility is the bedrock of our mission at the museum, including in the planning and delivery of events. We’re keenly aware that for some local families, Christmas brings complex pressures and not enough simple joy, and so we’ve teamed up with WILD to implement this straightforward but effective pay it forward scheme.”

When and Where

Father Christmas at the Museum begins on 10th December, coinciding with Truro’s late-night shopping, and continues with regular sessions until Christmas Eve.

Tickets are available to buy online at www.cornwallmuseum.org/events and will also be on sale at the Truro Christmas Market between 21st – 25th November, where the museum will have a dedicated cabin.

For more details or to book, visit Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery or book directly via their ticket page