Museum has festive cheer

A relatively recent event for us here in the UK, the tradition of a Christmas market harks back to Vienna’s December Market, first held in the Middle Ages in 1298. The Krippenmarkt (translated as crib/manger market), was given permission to be held over the 24 days of Advent. However, it was not until 86 years later in 1384, with the first Christkindlmarkt taking place in Germany, that we saw the more familiar winter street markets that we’ve come to love.
Following in their footsteps, with the added bonus of being warm and indoors, Torquay Museum’s two atmospheric ‘Tis the Season Christmas Fair days, on Saturdays 2nd and 9th of December, will fill up your festive feelings and most definitely boost your Christmas cheer! With the promise of a little snow, wander through the tree-scented entrance hall to find a variety of even more stalls this year, hosted by a different mix of local craftspeople over both weekends. You can find everything from tasty treats for stocking fillers, beautifully crafted decorations for your home or tree, jewellery, the perfect gift for the Vegan in your life, or discover that unique present for someone special that you just won’t find on the high street.
Join the Museum’s Education Team for some lovely Christmas craft sessions on both days; come and make a cute Candy Cane Felt Mouse to hang from your tree or a Jingle Elf. Mrs Christmas will also be telling wondrously festive tales in our galleries.
Torquay Museum will be playing host to the heavenly voices of the choir from Rydon Primary School, Torre Academy, and Doorstep Arts throughout the day on Saturday 2nd of December, with Cockington Primary and Preston Primary on Saturday 9th of December, so please take your spare change to support them.
Visitors can also enjoy the festive Victorian Christmas Trail throughout the Museum, and then stop off in the Café for a yummy hot chocolate, a mince pie, or any of the other festive delights that Barbara has created. The Bar will be serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic mulled wine too.
Two whole days of fun under one roof, all with a sprinkling of snow - yule be sorry if you miss it!
A Museum entry ticket is NOT required for this festive event. Your entry to the fair is only £3 per adult and £1 per child (return for £2 per adult, with FREE child on the second Saturday – for a new mix of stalls and fun) and allows you free entry to the Museum, and access to the family crafts and events on the days. You can book your tickets online in advance via the Museum’s website.
Please note access to the British Museum Touring Exhibition Egyptian hieroglyphs: unlock the mystery exhibition requires a valid Museum ticket.