We love our little ones and spending time together, but it can be hard to keep them entertained over the festive period. With relatives to see and a social pressure to treat the kids to the best of the best, our bank accounts can start to feel the squeeze! So, we’ve compiled an easy list of free events that you might choose to explore with your babies or toddlers this December.
1.         The Illumination Trail in Torquay or Go on a drive or walk to see your neighborhood lights
If your baby or toddler loves our class lights, just think how they would react to seeing them fifty times bigger! The Illumination Trail is back in Torquay this year and it’s bigger and better than ever before. A free walk along the coast that you can do just before bed time, your little ones are sure to be in awe of all of the bright and flashing lights. If you can’t make it over to Torquay, one of my favorite things to do every year is drive around the town to see decorations in the neighbor’s front gardens. Whether you prefer some simple icicles hanging from the guttering, or the 10-foot inflatable Santa dancing in the breeze, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Whack on those festive tunes, take a mug of hot chocolate and enjoy this simple activity.
2.        Visit a garden center
If you can get to a garden center this year, they are sure to have their decorations out on display. Whilst some grottos are now sold out, there are plenty of snow globes and festive plants for your little ones to explore.
3.         Watch the train of lights go past
As a family, we love the train of lights. One of our favorite things to do is wait on the wall at Goodrington beach, with a hot chocolate or snack from the beach cafés and watch the train go by as the flashing fluorescents decorate and dance on the sand.
4.        Visit a Christmas market
Plymouth Christmas market and Exter Christmas market end on the 17th of December, so before they do, head on down and visit all of the lovely festive stalls. 19th of December sees the Totnes Christmas market return to the town for the final time this year. With lots of shops staying open late, there’s plenty of gift inspiration or you can just enjoy the festive spirit!
Willing to travel further afield? Tavistock Christmas market is open until the 23rd of December too!
5.         Watch a Santa fun run
Does your little one love Santa? Why not have more than one? On the 17th of December, you could visit Dartington estate to watch a festive Santa run
Whether you decide to visit an event, or much prefer your days spent indoors with some festive music crooning over the speakers, remember that your little one will love whatever it is you choose, so long as they get to spend the time making memories with you.
Mykaela xx