The South Devon Festive Calendar: The Main Events This Autumn/Winter

Yes, it's that time of year again. The shops are putting out the Halloween and Christmas decorations, and the air feels colder (it actually got rather warm this year), and the leaves are already starting to fall. We might have just over a week remaining until the official end of summer, but social media kissed goodbye to the summer vibes at the stroke of 00:01 on September 1st.

And with that comes arguably the best time of year in the UK. It's festive, it's cosy, and if you can look past the rain and the cold, there are tons of events in South Devon to leave the warm embrace of the sofa or bed for.

Read on for a run-through of the main events on the South Devon festive calendar.

Dartmouth Food Festival: Friday 24th October – Sunday 26th October

The Dartmouth Food Festival is one of the best events of the year if you like food.

You've got wine seminars, cooking classes, and every food stall imaginable selling some of the finest artisan cheeses, chocolates, meats, and sauces; the list goes on. You don't even need to buy anything; just walk around and get some of the free samples. Events like these prove that the UK really does have some of the finest produce.

People travel from all over for the foodies' heaven event. The closest major airport is Heathrow (although Exeter is closer). If you're only travelling to South Devon for food festivals, Heathrow hotels and a car rental are the best options for exploring the local area.

Entry is free, but you might have to pay for some of the seminars.

Pennywell Pumpkin Nights: Saturday 27th September - Sunday 2nd of November

We can't do October without talking about Halloween. The Pennywell Pumpkin Nights are the perfect family-friendly day out. It's consistently voted Devon's #1 pumpkin experience, although it's a shame the pumpkin walk isn't returning to the caves, Kents Cavern ancient caves, this year.

That being said, the Pennywell Pumpkin Nights are magical events. Thinking of toasting marshmallows, farm rides, fun animal experiences, and, of course, pumpkins. Ticket prices are £13.95 for adults and £10.95 for children aged 3-15. Children under 3 go in for free.

Westpoint Exeter Charity Fireworks Display — 1 November 2025

How can you not love bonfire night? It's the beginning of the Christmas-style cosy festivities, and something feels so nostalgic about it.

The Westpoint Exeter bonfire event is one of the most popular. Starting at 5:30 pm this year, you'll find a funfair, the typical food vendors you might find at a bonfire night (hot dogs, burgers, and cotton candy), and arguably the biggest fireworks show in the South West.

If you love a traditional bonfire celebration, you'll love this. And the money goes towards supporting local charities!

Bay of Lights trail in Torquay - Dates Not Confirmed

This one isn't to miss. The stunning 1.5-mile trail that winds its way along Torquay's iconic waterfront. You'll find twinkling lights installed at the Torre Abbey, a tunnel of lights, pixel-mappable trees, and features along the Torquay seafront and harbour. Last year, in the sunken gardens, they had 1000 fantastic LED flowers.

There are usually food and drink stalls selling hot chocolate and mulled wine along the way. The dates aren't confirmed yet, but it's an annual event. Look out for information in the coming weeks.

And that's not even touching the surface of the festive events you can find in South Devon in 2025. It's the perfect place to be, from now until January, if you want to soak up the atmosphere of the best season of the year!

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