Celebrate Christmas in Cornwall’s Great Little City

Christmas is a magical time to visit Truro. From traditional markets and late-night shopping to festive entertainment, Father Christmas and New Year’s Eve fireworks, Cornwall’s only city comes alive throughout November and December.

Whether you’re searching for unique Cornish gifts, planning a festive day out with the family or meeting friends for Christmas shopping and food, there are plenty of reasons to enjoy Christmas in Truro in 2026.

Truro Christmas Market

Saturday 21 November – Thursday 24 December 2026

Experience Cornwall’s biggest traditional Christmas market in the heart of Truro.

Browse stalls filled with gifts, crafts, festive food and local produce while enjoying the atmosphere of the city at Christmas. With Truro’s shops, cafés, restaurants and attractions just moments away, it’s easy to make a full festive day of your visit.

Boscawen Street Christmas Markets

Wednesdays and Saturdays, 21 November – 23 December 2026

Christmas shopping extends onto Boscawen Street with regular festive markets featuring local gifts, produce and street food.

Traffic-free shopping creates a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of the city, with independent shops and familiar high-street names all close by.

Late Night Shopping in Truro

Wednesdays 2, 9, 16 & 23 December 2026

Make an evening of your Christmas shopping in Truro.

On Wednesday evenings in December, many independent and national retailers will stay open until 9.00pm, giving you extra time to browse for gifts, enjoy the markets and stop for festive food or drinks along the way.

The Father Christmas Parade

Wednesday 2 December 2026

Christmas celebrations step up a gear with the return of Truro BID’s popular Father Christmas Parade.

The evening begins with Rock Choir at 6.00pm, followed by the parade at 6.30pm, featuring Father Christmas alongside musicians, performers and dance groups.

Combine the parade with the first Late Night Shopping evening for a festive night out in the city.

Father Christmas at Cornwall Museum & Art Gallery

Saturday 12 – Thursday 24 December 2026

Meet Father Christmas at the Cornwall Museum & Art Gallery and enjoy a special festive storytelling experience for families.

Advance booking and full details will be available from the museum.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Thursday 31 December 2026

Finish the year in Truro with two spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks displays.

A family-friendly display takes place at 7.30pm, followed by the traditional midnight fireworks welcoming in the New Year.

Both displays can be watched from Lemon Quay. They are free to attend.

Plan Your Christmas Visit to Truro

With Christmas markets, independent shopping, late-night openings, festive food, family events and entertainment all within a compact city centre, Truro is a great place to enjoy the festive season in Cornwall.

Keep checking our What’s On pages as more Christmas events, performances, workshops and seasonal activities are announced.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Christmas in Truro start in 2026?

Truro’s main Christmas programme begins on Saturday 21 November 2026, when the Truro Christmas Market and Boscawen Street Christmas Markets begin. The Christmas lights will turn on in the afternoon of Saturday 21 November.

When is Truro Christmas Market 2026?

Truro Christmas Market runs from Saturday 21 November until Thursday 24 December 2026, bringing festive shopping, gifts, food and local produce to the city.

When is Late Night Shopping in Truro?

Late Night Shopping takes place on Wednesdays 2, 9, 16 and 23 December 2026, when many of Truro’s independent and national shops will remain open until 9.00pm.

When is the Father Christmas Parade in Truro?

The Father Christmas Parade takes place on Wednesday 2 December 2026. Rock Choir will perform from 6.00pm, with the parade beginning at 6.30pm.

Can children meet Father Christmas in Truro?

Yes. Father Christmas will be at Cornwall Museum & Art Gallery from Saturday 12 to Thursday 24 December 2026, with a special Father Christmas and storytelling experience. Check the museum’s website for full details and booking information.

Are there Christmas markets on Boscawen Street?

Yes. Boscawen Street Christmas Markets take place on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 21 November to 23 December, featuring local gifts, produce and street food alongside traffic-free shopping.

Are there New Year’s Eve fireworks in Truro?

Yes. On Thursday 31 December 2026, Truro will welcome the New Year with a family fireworks display at 7.30pm and a second display at midnight. Both can be viewed from Lemon Quay and are free to watch.

Where can I find more Christmas events in Truro?

Visit the Visit Truro What’s On pages for the latest Christmas events, performances, workshops, family activities and festive experiences taking place across the city.