2025 date to be confirmed, according to the tides…

Father Christmas arrives by Lifeboat in St Ives Harbour, followed by the official Christmas Light switch-on. This is an event the whole community looks forward to each year, thanks to the combined efforts of St Ives BID and our wonderful St Ives RNLI.

As with previous years, there will be lots festivities to enjoy to get you into the Christmas spirit. Before the launch, one of our local School choirs will entertain the crowds along the harbourfront. The boat launch will be between 6 and 6:30pm at West Pier and there will be plenty of photo opportunities capture the big man himself.

Once the RNLI bring Santa safely back to dry land, you will be able to follow Santa in his sleigh around the cobbled streets of St Ives to Royal Square for the Christmas light switch on.

In Royal Square, the festivities will continue with Cafe Art serving hot chocolate, mulled wine and other delicious treats. The St Ives Concert Band will also be in attendance in Royal Square with some Christmas favourites to get you into the festive mood.

There will be FREE parking on Cornwall Council carparks from 4pm.

We look forward to seeing you for a wonderfully festive evening!

Photo credit: Greg Martin Photo Journalist