Blackbird Pie 2023 Christmas

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Christmas 2023 and New Year 2024 30,000 copies across Cornwall and on-line

BlackbirdPie Cornwall’s what’s-on for families Calendar for Christmas

2023 and New Year 2024 What’s on Festive fun around Cornwall Search for Santa Christmas at Eden Christmas books Theatre shows & pantomimes Advice on Strep A Vouchers & offers for: National Maritime Museum Cornwall, page 3 Jungle Jacks, page 6 Eden Project, page 7 Paradise Park, page 7 Magikats, page 10

‘Tis the Sneezon...

Advice from Ellen, Programme Manager – Operations and EPRR at Kernow Health

As the days grow shorter, and a chill fills the air, winter brings the promise of festive celebrations and cosy moments by the fireplace, but the colder weather also has an impact on our bodies and minds. The winter months often bring an increase in cases of the common cold, the flu and other respiratory infections.

The telltale signs of these illnesses are all too familiar: a scratchy throat, a runny nose, persistent cough, and sometimes, that all-encompassing sense of fatigue. The flu can also come with a high fever, muscle aches, and chills; while respiratory infections are marked by chest pain, coughing, and a fever. Taking preventive measures, such as vaccinations, wrapping up warm and practicing good hand hygiene, are essential to stay healthy during the chilly winter months.

If you’re worried about an urgent medical concern, you can call 111 to speak to a fully trained adviser 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; or get advice via www.111cornwall.nhs.uk using your smartphone, tablet or computer, although 111 online is not available for children under 5.

You should call 111 if: • • •

You need urgent advice about your symptoms, but it’s not a 999 emergency.

You need guidance about where to get help if you can’t see your GP or dentist, or need a call back from a clinician.

You think you need to go to A&E or another NHS urgent care service; or you require health information or reassurance about what to do next.

For less urgent health needs, contact your GP or a local pharmacist.

Have you ever used our services?

Was it a good experience or not? We want to hear from you as we strive to give the best service possible to people in Cornwall.

Please email us at kernowhealthcic.khcicgovernance@nhs.net.

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Content: What’s on this winter, searching for Santa, and cracking Christmas events!

Christmas at Eden: an after-dark, immersive music and light experience, Santa and ice-skating 8&9 Winter calendar 2023 10 What’s on continued 11 Christmas books 12 to 14 Theatre shows and pantomimes 15 NHS Cornwall: Advice on Strep A Dear Readers, Take advantage of shorter days and trip the light fantastic! There are Christmas lights being switched on, lantern parades and late-night Christmas markets (see pages 4 & 5 for events in Truro and Newquay). Winter Wonderlands include Trevena Cross in Breage, Enys near Penryn, and, around St Austell, there are Eden’s immersive sound & light experience, Tunnels of Light at Charlestown, and the fabulous Heligan Night Garden.

Santa and his elves are dizzyingly busy, appearing all over the place from trains to gardens, theatres to biomes, and grottos everywhere.

You can even Dine with Santa at Newquay Zoo!

There are lots of fabulous family-friendly shows and pantomimes to enjoy, see pages 12 to 14.

(Picture above – players from Coppice Theatre.)

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Vanessa, Simon and the Blackbird

We believe that all details are correct at the time of going to print but cannot accept any responsibility for mistakes or omissions. We try to ensure all events featured will be enjoyed by younger children but in some instances we cannot test this and have to rely on the opinions of the organisers.

Please mention us to advertisers

Contact us at: “Blackbird Pie”, Flying Pig Publishing, 3 Basset Place, Falmouth, Cornwall. TR11 2SS  post@blackbirdpie.co.uk  01326 314242 www.blackbirdpie.co.uk

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What’s on this winter Theatre shows are on pages 12 to 14.

£1

OFF: book on-line & use code

BBP01OFF

Trevena Cross, Breage, Helston. From 2 to 23 Dec: the fabulous, infamous Santa’s Grotto is returning for the first time since 2019!

Take a magical journey through a snowy forest, encounter a wonderful winter wonderland, and meet Santa in his grotto; £10 child, includes gift.

Pre-book at https:// app.santabooker.com/ All December you can take festive photos with Christmas props, animatronics & snow.

There will be a fabulous Christmas-themed shop, weekend festive food & drink markets and £25 Christmas trees. Wheelchair accessible. www.trevenacross.co.uk National Maritime Museum Cornwall, Falmouth. Cornish Christmas Activities, 13 Dec to 3 Jan: admire the Lobster Pot Christmas Tree and help Charlie Chough uncover Cornwall’s festive traditions in the Christmas trail, created with Cornish illustrator Bex Bourne. 18 to 3 Jan: make willow tree fish decorations or star wands for New Year. Then explore the Pirates exhibition, 100-foot Lookout Tower & go underwater in the Tidal Zone! Activities are FREE with entry, pay once get in free for a year! nmmc.co.uk Truro City Centre, Christmas in Truro starts with Festive Friday on 24 Nov: with entertainment from 4.45pm, Pirate FM switch on Truro’s Christmas Lights at 7pm, live music until 9pm and an all-day market. Celebrations continue on 29 Nov with The Father Christmas Parade at 6.30pm, featuring dancers, musicians & circus performers.

The festive lights & parade are organised by Truro BID, sponsored

by Coodes Solicitors. The parade coincides with the first Wednesday Late Night Shopping and the start of The BIG Christmas Market on Lemon Quay. www.visittruro.org.uk

From 6 Dec the Finding Father Christmas Grotto and storytelling experience with Coppice Theatre is at the Royal Cornwall Museum, booking essential www.hallforcornwall.co.uk/whats-on/ finding-father-christmas-at-the-museum

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31 Dec: watch Truro City Council’s firework displays from Lemon Quay, with family fireworks at 7.30pm and New Year fireworks at midnight. Free to attend thanks to donations and to Truro School who set the fireworks off from their grounds. www.visittruro.org.uk

Newquay Zoo Dine with Santa! Join Newquay Zoo this Christmas for a morning or afternoon meet and greet with Santa and receive a special festive gift! You will also take part in craft activities and enjoy a delicious breakfast or dinner in Café Lemur, £20 per child (members £16). To book visit newquayzoo.org.uk The Food Barn, just outside Flushing, runs seriously good Saturday markets packed with sustainable, top quality, local produce and very yummy, prepared food. Their weekend Christmas markets (2, 9, 16, 22 & 23 Dec) will be stuffed with foodie festive favourites, mulled cider to sip, and games for youngsters. www.facebook.com/foodbarn.tregew/ Cornwall Libraries - cosy up with a classic or have fun with festive crafts this winter. There are so many wonderful FREE things to do, just visit your local library to find out what’s on, from Rhyme Times to Lego clubs and more. Joining is free and there are no fines. For a list of local libraries and how to join online visit www.cornwall.gov.uk/ library Follow Cornwall libraries and specific libraries on Facebook and Instagram. 03001 234111 Heartlands, Pool.

2 & 3 Dec: Nadelik Christmas Market, £1 entry, sizzling street food, seasonal treats, over 80 local artisans and traders, live entertainment, snow machine winter magic.

2, 3, 9 & 10 Dec: Santa’s Grotto - book a slot to meet Santa, £10 per child (£25 for 3) www.heartlandscornwall.com/christmas-market/. 2 & 3 Dec: Wreath-making workshops, £40 includes mulled wine, spiced apple & mince pie. 9 Dec: Squashbox Theatre: The Christmassy Christmas Show. Don’t forget Wheal Play, Heartlands’ mining-themed soft play centre £4.95/ adults £1/ TR postcodes discount.

Newquay lights up with lanterns, the much-loved Community Lantern Parade returns to Newquay on Friday 1 December alongside a night of festivities, including the Christmas lights switch-on, live music, fireworks and a Christmas market.

Ahead of the event, a free lantern-making workshop hosted by Blystra Arts will be held at Store House Community Hub (T27 1BL) on Saturday 25 November, 10am to 2pm.

Photo credit - Mike Searle

After the parade, businesses around Newquay Town Centre will be displaying the lanterns from the parade in their windows to create a trail. Families can complete the trail to win a prize! Map available from the Tourist Information Centre (TR7 1BD) from 4 to 20 December. www.visitnewquay.org Experience Newquay is a Cornwall Council project funded by the UK Government through the Shared Prosperity Fund. It is working in collaboration with Newquay Town Council, Visit Newquay and Newquay BID.

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What's on - continues on page 6 >>>>

What's on - continued from page 5 Cornwall Heritage Trust is a small, independent charity whose mission is to protect Cornwall’s historic places, landscapes, traditions, and stories. The festively wrapped gift memberships make a perfect Christmas present - your support means the Trust can continue helping Cornwall’s heritage flourish. Starting from £15, these limited-edition packs have special yuletide treats inside and a wealth of benefits including discounted and free access to heritage sites across Cornwall, special events, guided walks and more. www.cornwallheritagetrust.org Bodmin Keep, Christmas at Bodmin Keep: Open Tues-Sat, closed 22 Dec. Open 27, 28, 29 Dec for those of you fed up with being home!

29 Nov: wreath-making, 6.30 to 9pm, £50 pp includes mince pies & mulled wine www.bodminkeep.org.uk.

Paradise Park, Hayle, NEW: save £4 pp with code BLACKBIRD. Activities include the family Christmas Cracker Quiz, festive photo opportunities, otter and penguin feed times; turkey & cranberry sauce hot panini rolls in the café, and the fantastic JungleBarn indoor Play Centre! 01736 751020.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan, www.heligan.com Under 5s go free, (Local’s Pass - pay once get in free for a year.) 17 Nov to 2 Jan: Heligan’s Night Garden is absolutely enchanting! The whole panorama of the Lost Gardens is beautifully lit with installations and lanterns. As you journey along the magical trail through atmospheric woodlands and gardens, you happen across wonderful, very different, themed installations including huge butterflies, a family of pigs, a gorgeous child-sized squirrel, a magical owl, a host of giant snowdrops and more!

MagiKats Tuition centres in Newquay & Truro offer English and Maths small group tuition for children from year 1 to GCSEs. The multi-sensory approach includes a combination of teaching, discussion, hands-on activities and written work. www.magikats.co.uk 01637 873862

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Enys House, between Mylor and Penryn. From 16 to 23 Dec, the House will be transformed into a magical enchanted woodland wonderland filled with magic, crafts & a very special story from Father Christmas himself.

Back by popular demand - last year’s reviews were amazing!

The Christmas Grotto experience takes 45 minutes in small groups with limited places so booking essential; early bird tickets £20 adult+child includes a momento. https://enysgardens.org.uk/whats-on/

Penlee House Gallery & Museum, Penzance, 01736 363625. Free entry for children and Penzance residents see penleehouse.org.uk/penzance-pass.

FREE family activities on Saturdays drop in 2.30 & 3.30pm. 18 Nov: colour collages. 25 Nov: craft-stick Christmas trees. 2 Dec: creative Christmas cards. 9 & 16 Dec: homemade decorations.

What's on - continues on page 9 >>>>

Discover Christmas at the Eden Project

Discover the magic of Christmas at the Eden Project. We put on a show like no one else, so celebrate with us this season by stepping into an all-new after-dark music and light experience on selected dates throughout December.

Journey through our incredible immersive lighting and soundscape in the Rainforest Biome and see our magnificent plants transformed into a magical night-time tropical wonderland.

Head to the Mediterranean Biome for a twinkling Christmas spectacle with a 1920s jazz twist! Don’t miss toe-tapping Christmas classics performed by our nine incredible live musicians.

Our unique light and soundscape will celebrate ‘nature’s gifts’, exploring humanity’s connection to the natural world, with an invitation to consider what nature means to you.

You can also book a visit to see Father Christmas – he’ll be visiting us with his elves throughout selected dates in December. But you need to be quick – limited spaces available.

And don’t forget to add an extra bit of sparkle to your Christmas visit – our glittering ice rink is back for the winter season.

For residents of Devon and Cornwall, our Winter Locals’ Pass is on sale until 23 December, providing more than two-thirds off standard admission prices and granting unlimited visits up until the end of March 2024.

Find out more at www.edenproject.com/christmas Our music and lights experience is included in admission and will take place from 5pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays on 1-3 and 8-10 December, and then runs daily from 14-23 December and 27-30 December.

Additional charge applies for Father Christmas and ice skating.

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Indoor Play - Parties - Virtual Reality - Laser Tag Christmas Party Gel Blasters 22 December razetheroof.co.uk Penryn Mondays Minnows Tales, NMMC, Falmouth, term time, drop-in 11 to 11.30am, stories, songs, and rhymes for under 5s, free, adults free with annual pass Tuesdays Toddler Time, Hall for Cornwall’s Green Room Café, 10am themed crafts, music & games with the friendly Get Creative Team for 2 to 6 years, £4 www.hallforcornwall.co.uk Fridays Storytelling, The Box, Plymouth, every Friday 10.30am, free admission Saturdays Arty Afternoons, Penlee House, Penzance, 2.30 to 3.30pm, free entry & activities; make craft-stick Christmas trees, cards & decorations 16 to 18 Bal Maiden the Musical, Princess Pav, Falmouth, an original, family-friendly, proper-Cornish musical with a live orchestra, 7.30pm. Age 7+ www.seetickets.com Nov 17 & 18 Frozen Jnr, Liskeard Public Hall, Sterts Juniors’ production of the Disney classic, 7pm & 18 Nov at 2pm, 01579 362382 www.sterts.co.uk Nov 17 Nov to Heligan Night Garden, absolutely enchanting, light installations & lanterns, must book www.heligan.com 2 Jan 20 to 25 Edward Scissorhands, Theatre Royal Plymouth, Matthew Bourne’s magical dance production of Tim Nov Burton’s movie, age 5+, 01752 267222 23 Nov to Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas, Theatre Royal Plymouth, Pins & Needles production, age 3+.

01752 267222 www.theatreroyal.com 31 Dec Christmas Lights, Truro, switch-on at 7pm, all-day market, entertainment from 4.45pm & live music 24 Nov until 9pm. www.visittruro.org.uk Switch On Day, Camborne, from 3pm, lantern parade 5.45pm, lights 6.30pm www.cambornetown.com 24 Nov to Sensory Reindeer Trail, Wheal Martyn, St Austell. 2 Dec: lantern-making, campfire, marshmallows, then lantern-lit walk, 3 to 5.30pm, adults £5/child £3, book info@wheal-martyn.com (mention BlackbirdPie) 23 Dec Christmas craft fair, Museum of Cornish Life, Helston, free entry 25 Nov Redruth Christmas lights, from 11am, market, lanterns, music, Mummers play, discoverredruth.co.uk/ Festive Fun, St Austell, 12 to 6pm, lights on 5pm, Winter Wonderland (Holy Trinity), music, free rides, entertainers, carousel, Snow Queen (Market House), free parking www.staustell.co.uk Kelliwik Golowi, Callington, from 6pm, festival of Cornish music, dance & light; torchlit fancy dress parade & displays 07581 845455 25 & 26 Winter Festival, Tate St Ives, discounted entry £1, dance performances, choirs, talks & workshops inspired by The Casablanca Art School www.tate.org.uk Nov 25 Nov to The dazzling Tunnel of Lights, Shipwreck Treasure Museum, Charlestown, book on shipwreckcharlestown.co.uk 31 Dec Father Christmas Parade, Truro, from 6.30pm. Santa & sleigh, elves, dance groups, music, circus 29 Nov performers. First Wednesday Late Night Shopping & first daily BIG Christmas Market, Lemon Quay www.visittruro.org.uk 1-3, 8-10, Christmas Lights, NT Trengwainton Garden, crafts, outdoor food vendors, adults £7.50, 5-17 yrs £3.75/ 15-17 Dec under 5s free, book a time slot 01736 363148, mention BlackbirdPie. Winter Wonderland, Carnglaze Caverns, St Neot, family (2+2) £32, under 3s free; visit Santa’s 1 to 22 underground grotto, £8. Book carnglaze.digitickets.co.uk Dec 1 to 30 Christmas at the Eden Project, incredible all-new, after-dark, music & light experience, Father Dec Christmas & the glittering ice rink! Winter Locals’ Pass, dates, times & booking details on page 7 2 & 3 Dec Nadelik Christmas Market, Heartlands, Pool, £1 entry, sizzling street food, seasonal treats, stalls, entertainers, visit Santa’s Grotto, £10 per child, book www.heartlandscornwall.com/christmas-market/ 2, 3, 9 & Santa’s Grotto, Heartlands, Pool, book www.heartlandscornwall.com/christmas-market/ 9 Dec: The Christmassy Christmas Show, with puppets 10 Dec Christmas House Experience, weekends, NT Godolphin, 01736 763194 godolphin@nationaltrust.org.uk 2 to 17 Santa’s Grotto returns! Trevena Cross, Helston, traverse a magical snowy forest, to a winter 2 to 23 wonderland, & visit Santa’s grotto; £10, inc gift. Pre-book https://app.santabooker.com/ Dec 2, 9, 16, 22 & 23 Dec The Food Barn Festive markets, Flushing, top quality, local produce, very yummy prepared food, festive foodie favourites, mulled cider www.facebook.com/foodbarn.tregew/ 2, 3, 9, 10, Father Christmas, NT Trerice, & tales and traditions of Christmases past, must book trerice@ 16 to 23 nationaltrust.org.uk 01637 875404, mention BlackbirdPie. Select days: carol singers in the Great Hall Audience with Father Christmas, NT Trelissick, must book trelissick@nationaltrust.org.uk 01872 862090 Dec mention BBP. 18 Dec: Storytelling. 2 to 31 Dec: the house will be decked with flowers and lights.

Santa by Steam, Christmas Murder Mystery trains, Stories & High Tea with Santa! Bodmin Railway, 2 to 29 2,3,9,10,16,17,21 to 24 Dec: Santa by Steam -take a train with Santa and his elves! 5,6,12,13 Dec: Dec Storytime / High Tea with Santa. Must book bodminrailway.co.uk 29 Dec: Winter Steam Up! 3 Dec Christmas Fayre, Bude, free entry, 11am to 4pm, workshops & Castle tours, live music, artisan stalls, magic shows 11.30am & 3pm, Santa’s Grotto 12.30 to 2.30pm, face-painting, make decorations.

Peter Pan, Hall for Cornwall, join Peter, Wendy, Tinker Bell & the Lost Boys on a fun-filled festive 4 to 31 adventure, with Kernow King returning as Captain Hook! See page 12 www.hallforcornwall.co.uk Dec Finding Father Christmas, Royal Cornwall Museum, Truro, Coppice Theatre’s unique walking theatre, 6 to 22 family storytelling and grotto experience, book early, www.hallforcornwall.co.uk/whats-on/finding-faDec ther-christmas-at-the-museum 01872 262466 Lostwithiel Dickensian Evening, lantern parade, Victorian costumes, stiltwalkers, reindeer alpacas, 7 Dec merry-go-round, Santa, & carols www.lostwithiel.org.uk 7 to 10 Padstow Christmas Festival, fun and foodie-filled festivities, free entry Fowey Christmas Market, choirs, street performers, Christmas lights etc foweychristmasmarket.co.uk 8 to 10

HAVE A REALLY WILD TIME

Brilliant for kids’ Look who’s over there? parties, play groups, schools, fun days!

Tel: 07761 810900 www.marks-ark.co.uk

Monthly Make Club, Endelienta Arts, St Endellion Hall, Port Isaac, with artists, make stained glass windows using colour tissue, 10am to 12pm, £5 per family, book tickets@endelienta.org.uk Festive Liskeard, from 10am to lighting the Christmas tree, 01579 349148 www.visitliskeard.co.uk Falmouth’s Festive Weekend, 12noon to 6pm: free - Santa’s grotto, strolling entertainers, live music, 9 & 10 market. £1: snow globe photos & rides. £2: festive land train, ice rink, & curling www.falmouth.co.uk Dec Cornish Yuletide, Mount Edgcumbe, Torpoint, stalls, live music, fire juggling, twinkle tunnel, alpacas, mini railways, roast chestnuts, mulled wine, free parking. Must pre-book www.mountedgcumbe.gov.uk Santa’s grotto, Helston Railway, Prospidnick, 9, 10, 16, 17, 20 to 23 Dec: visit Santa & take a wonderful 9 to 23 steam train ride! www.helstonrailway.co.uk Dec Kidz at Christmas, St Ives Theatre, 7pm, fun-packed extravaganza kidzrus.net 10 Dec 10, 11, 17 & 18 Frozen JR, KidzRUs, St Ives Theatre, kidzrus.net 13 Dec Toddlers’ Christmas party, Jungle Jack’s, Newquay, 12.30 to 3pm, crafts, hot choc & cookies, visit/gift from Santa Jack, £10 child, £1.75 adult, book at reception or 01637 852890 13 Dec to Cornish Christmas, NMMC, Falmouth, Lobster Pot Christmas Tree, festive crafts & Charlie Chough’s trail uncovering Cornish festive traditions. All free with entry (pay once get in free for a year) nmmc.co.uk 3 Jan 14 Dec Christmas Fayre, Lostwithiel School 15 to 20 Elf - the Musical, Liskeard Public Hall, 15, 16, 18 to 20 Dec 7pm, 16 & 20 Dec 2pm: with Sterts Theatre Company, 01579 362382 www.sterts.co.uk Dec 15 to 21 Community festival culminating on Montol Eve, Penzance, lantern and mask-making workshops, carol Dec services & traditional Mummers plays 15 to 24 Santa’s at Charlestown! Shipwreck Treasure Museum, book to meet him on shipwreckcharlestown.co.uk (Book separately for Tunnel of Lights) Dec 15 Dec to Goldilocks & the Three Bears, Theatre Royal Plymouth, riotous comedy, special effects & hair-raising stunts! 01752 267222 www.theatreroyal.com 13 Jan Squashbox’s Christmassy Christmas Show, Shire House, Bodmin, 2 & 4pm, /intobodmin.co.uk 16 Dec 16 to 21 A Christmas Carol, adaptation of Charles Dickens’ festive classic, acted by Tama Matheson, accompanied by classical music, age 8+. 16 & 17 Dec: St Michael’s Helston. 18 Dec: Boconnoc. 19 Dec: Dec St Allen, Truro, 20 & 21 Dec: Trebah Garden. www.kernowchamberplayers.com 16 to 23 Dine with Santa! Newquay Zoo, 16, 17 & 23 Dec: Breakfast, 9 to 10.30am & 19 & 21 Dec: Tea, 3 to 4.30pm. £20 child (members £16) meet Santa, gift, crafts & food, book www.newquayzoo.org.uk Dec Christmas Grotto Experience, Enys House, near Penryn, enchanted woodland wonderland with crafts & story with Santa, must book enysgardens.org.uk/whats-on/ 16 to 31 The Mousehole Cat, Solomon Browne Hall, Mousehole, magical production with actors, music, singing, and a life-size cat puppet; book early 01872 384448 cousinjacks.org Dec Squashbox’s Christmassy Christmas Show, Sterts Th. Studio, 2 & 4pm, 01579 362382 www.sterts.co.uk 17 Dec Jack Frost 7! The Poly, Falmouth, 11.30am & 2.30pm, Coppice Theatre’s Jack is back, festive storytelling with projections & innovative lighting; for age 3+. thepoly.org. 01326 319461 17 & 23 Santa’s Grotto & Tea Party with Santa! Tre Pol & Pen, Lezant, visit & gift £6.50 / with tea £11.95, book Dec 01566 706527 mention BlackbirdPie. 20 Dec Christmas Disco Party, Jungle Jack’s, Newquay, games, best costume comp, prizes, party food, squash, 5 to 7pm, £10 child, £1.75 adult, book at reception or 01637 852890 20 to 22 Dickens Christmas, novelEnglish, Ruan Minor, 2-night / 3-day residential course inspired by Oliver Twist, Christmas traditions, parlour games & bygone festive grub, email enquiries@novelenglish.co.uk Dec 21 & 22 Santa’s Christmas Wish! Regal Theatre, Redruth, song-filled, interactive family show, followed by meet, greet & treat with Santa! 01209 216278 www.regaltheatre-redruth.co.uk Dec Christmas Fancy Dress Disco Party, Raze the Roof, Penryn, 5 to 8pm, Santa, disco, ‘best dressed’ prizes 22 Dec & disco games, £12.50: Yule dogs, berry juice & gift, adult £1. Book razetheroof.co.uk / 01326 377481 Squashbox’s The Christmassy Christmas Show, Acorn Penzance, 3.30 & 6.30pm 01736 363545 22 & 23 Family Festive Celebration, The Box, Plymouth, 22 Dec: museum by night, stories, decorate cookies & dance to Christmas hits, 5.30 to 8.30pm. 23 Dec: interactive Christmassy experience, Kitchen & Bar, Dec 10am to 12noon, book www.theboxplymouth.com 25 Dec Happy Christmas!

27 Dec to Family shows, Minack Theatre, Porthcurno, 3pm, 27 & 29 Dec: The Sea Show, Squashbox’s hilarious puppet show. 1 Jan: The Piskie in the Garden, John Brolly storyteller. minack.com 01736 810181 1 Jan Explorer Backpacks, Tate St Ives, 10am to 4pm, under 18s free & Locals’ Pass £5. www.tate.org.uk New Year’s Eve Fireworks, Truro, for families at 7.30pm & at midnight. www.visittruro.org.uk 31 Dec 2 to 4 Jan Jack & The Beanstalk, Lane Theatre, traditional panto, lanetheatre.co.uk 01637 876945 10 to 14 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Regal Theatre, Redruth, RAMPS panto with toe-tapping songs & dance routines. 01209 216278 www.regaltheatre-redruth.co.uk Jan 17 Jan to Aladdin, Theatre Royal Plymouth, Disney’s spectacular Broadway & West End musical 01752 267222 www.theatreroyal.com 11 Feb 20 to 27 Jack and the Beanstalk, Keay Theatre, St Austell, St Blazey Amateur Operatic Society’s traditional panto stuffed with music & laughter, www.ticketsource.co.uk Jan The Magic of Dinosaurs, Acorn, Penzance, 2pm, comedy & magic show with mindreading, stories & 21 Jan puppets, 01736 363545 theacornpenzance.com 23 to 28 Sleeping Beauty, Epworth Hall, Helston, captivating panto adventure, 01326 879500 www.helstontheatrecompany.co.uk Jan 25 to 27 Peter Pan, Liskeard Public Hall, 01726 63513 www.crbo.co.uk 9 Dec

>>>> What’s on - continued from page 7 Bodmin Railway Christmas events - Murder Mystery trains, High Tea with Santa, Winter Steam Up! There will be carols, seasonal food, wreath-making and storytime with Santa. In December take a ‘Santa by Steam’ train with Santa and his elves. Pre-booking essential bodminrailway.co.uk novelEnglish is a wonderfully different, educational enterprise based on the Lizard, that runs courses for children of all ages, with a focus on drama, reading and creative writing.

20 to 22 Dec: Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist, 2-night / 3-day residential course; get whisked back to the seedy streets of Victorian London, read Oliver Twist, and explore Christmas traditions, parlour games and bygone festive grub. email enquiries@novelenglish.co.uk www.novelenglish.co.uk Tate St Ives under 18s free entry & adults annual Locals’ Pass is just £5. 25 & 26 Nov: Winter Festival, discounted entry £1, with dance performances, choirs, talks and workshops inspired by The Casablanca Art School exhibition. 27 Dec to 1 Jan: Explorer Backpacks and Tate Shapes activities, free with gallery admission; 10am to 4pm. www.tate.org.uk Helston Railway, Trevarno Farm, Prospidnick. 9, 10, 16, 17, 20 to 23 Dec: visit Santa’s grotto and take a wonderful steam train ride! www.helstonrailway.co.uk Nationally 8 in 10 women don’t manage to breastfeed for as long as they wish. Research has shown that this is due to a number of factors, including cultural attitudes towards breastfeeding within the community.

In Cornwall we are aiming to increase public awareness and support for breastfeeding with our Breastfeeding Welcome scheme. Our hope is that more people, whether grandparents, neighbours or friends of breastfeeding parents, will be able to encourage and support breastfeeding, especially when out and about.

Our Breastfeeding welcome scheme is being promoted by a range of local cafes, leisure centres and public buildings. If you would like to display a Breastfeeding Welcome window sticker you can express an interest by emailing BreastfeedingWelcome@cornwall.gov.uk Breastfeeding benefits the health and well-being of babies and mothers, and we are here to support them.

Breastfeeding@cornwall.gov.uk

The Steren School of Ballet in Pool, St Day and now Penzance!

Ballet classes from as little as birth. Miss Jessica’s enchanting classes bring movement, music, creativity, education and development together. Classes include Early Years ballet, Royal Academy of Dance, pre-pointe & pointe, creative contemporary, and adults, details on www.sterenballet.co.uk 07515 129358 or scan QR code page 9.

Raze the Roof, soft play, virtual reality & laser tag arena, Penryn, 22 Dec: Christmas Fancy Dress Disco Party, 5 to 8pm, meet Santa in his grotto, disco, prizes for best dressed & disco games, £12.50 includes Yule dogs, berry juice & a gift from Santa, adults £1. Book on razetheroof.co.uk / 01326 377481 Jungle Jack’s, Newquay, fab indoor play, book online & use discount code BBP01OFF for £1 off, www.junglejacks.co.uk. Free play & entry for under 1s. 13 Dec: Toddlers’ Christmas party 12.30 to 3pm with arts & crafts, hot chocolate & cookies and a visit/gift from Santa Jack. 20 Dec: Christmas Disco Party, games, best costume competition, prizes, party food, squash, 5 to 7pm. Both parties £10 child, £1.75 adult, book at reception or on 01637 852890.

Shipwreck Treasure Museum, 25 Nov to 31 Dec: the dazzling Tunnel of Lights returns to Charlestown. Step into the BRRR-illiant Snow Globe and explore. 15 to 24 Dec: Santa’s at Charlestown!

Mark’s Ark safe, controlled, close encounters with exotic animals are brilliant for birthday parties, playgroups, and schools. Fully insured, risk assessed, competitively priced and suitable for all ages.

To organise a wildlife encounter for your school or birthday contact Mark on 07761 810900.

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The Box, Plymouth. Weekends from 2 to 17 Dec + 21 & 22 Dec: Breakfast with Santa. 22 Dec: Family Festive Celebration - explore the galleries by night, seasonal stories, decorate cookies & dance to Christmas hits, 5.30 to 8.30pm. 23 Dec: Santa’s elves at The Box Kitchen & Bar, interactive Christmassy experience, 10am to 12noon, book www.theboxplymouth.com

Blackbird Reads Christmas Books

by Deborah Wright How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney?

by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Jon Klassen published by Walker I love the deadpan humour and quirky illustrations as Father Christmas is seen stretching like a toffee or folding flat to get through a letter box. How DOES he get into our homes? And dogs must love him or they’d bark – perhaps he has treats in his pocket?

But thank goodness, he gets in somehow! For 3+ Dasher Can’t Wait for Christmas

by Matt Tavares published by Walker Dasher the inquisitive little reindeer can’t wait for Christmas Eve, so she goes off on her own, flying through the night sky. And gets lost. How will she find her way home to Santa in time to deliver all the presents? Beautiful starlit illustrations and a gentle story, this is perfect bedtime reading in the run-up to Christmas. For 3+ Cat Family Christmas

by Lucy Brownridge illustrated by Eunyoung Seo published by Frances Lincoln A count-down to the last twelve days before Christmas with over 140 flaps to open it makes an ordinary Advent Calendar seem very dull.

There is plenty to search for, as the Cat Family prepares for a brilliant Big Day – drawers open, lids come off, crackers pull and sledges slide. For 4+ Harvey Slumfenburger’s Christmas Present

by John Burningham published by Walker A thirtieth anniversary edition of this classic story with a beautiful shiny cover. Harvey lives in a remote hut on the top of the Roly Poly Mountain, and as a weary Father Christmas climbs into bed, he sees Harvey’s present is still in his sack. He’s forgotten him! Somehow he gets there (the reindeer are too tired), by boat, jeep, skis and more: FC never lets children down. For 4+ Kitty and the Snowball Bandit

by Paula Harrison, illustrated by Jenny Løvlie published by Oxford It’s the Winter Fair and snow is falling fast – but there’s someone out there determined to spoil the fun. Kitty and her cat-like superpowers must come to the rescue. With black, white and orange illustrations on every page, this is an exciting read for newly confident readers. 7+ The Dark is Rising

by Susan Cooper published by Penguin This is the fiftieth anniversary edition of Susan Cooper’s wonderful fantasy sequence, and as gripping as ever. Will Stanton, the seventh son of a seventh son discovers he is an Old One on his eleventh birthday, just before Christmas Eve. He must battle the forces of the Dark and find the six Signs. But as the snow falls, thicker and thicker, the Dark threatens to overwhelm everything he loves. For 10+

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As Peter Pan sews on his shadow and Hook tries to track down that ticking clock (spoiler, it’s in the crocodile!), Hall for Cornwall prepares for its most magical Christmas yet.

From 4 to 31 December, join in with the adventure of a lifetime with Peter, Wendy, Hook, the Lost Boys, and of course, Tinker Bell too! This year’s production stars Cornwall’s very own Kernow King as Captain Hook, returning to Hall for Cornwall after last year’s swashbuckling performance as Long John Silver in Treasure Island! Joining him are Sara Markland as a fairy-godmother style Tinker Bell, Falmouth University graduate Ollie McFarlane as Peter Pan, Jade Lauren as Wendy, and Cornish comedian Colin Leggo as Smee – plus many more!

The show will also feature local children as the Lost Boys. For some, this will be the first time on a stage, and they’re already thinking their happiest thoughts...

Throughout December, the whole theatre will be transformed into a Cornish Neverland, with giant toadstools, fairies, a pirate ship and other shimmering surprises around every corner.

Pop into their Green Room café while you’re out Christmas shopping and get a taste of what’s happening in the building! There will be flavoured hot chocolates, moreish mince pies, and other tempting treats to thaw you out. Enjoy the warmest Cornish Christmas at Hall for Cornwall. Just watch out for the crocodile lurking in the shadows...

As Christmas draws to a close, the New Year brings even more family shows like Bluey’s Big Play, The Gruffalo’s Child, Pop Princesses and David Walliams’ Awful Auntie.

Find out more at hallforcornwall.co.uk

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Theatre Shows, Puppets & Pantomimes!

Princess Pavilion, Falmouth https://www.seetickets.com/tour/ bal-maiden-musical 16 to 18 Nov at 7.30pm: the world premiere performance of Bal Maiden, an Cornish musical. with original songs accompanied by a live orchestra. Family-friendly show. Age 8+ Theatre Royal Plymouth 01752 267222 www.theatreroyal.com 23 Nov to 31 Dec: Pins and Needles production of Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas, 3+.

15 Dec to 13 Jan: Goldilocks’ circus is under threat from an evil rival circus owner. Will the madcap circus friends rescue their Big Top from ruin? Goldilocks and the Three Bears is packed with stars of screen, stage & sport, riotous comedy, extraordinary special effects & hair-raising stunts!

17 Jan to 11 Feb Disney’s spectacular Broadway and West End musical Aladdin.

Royal Cornwall Museum, Truro, Tickets: www.hallforcornwall.co.uk/ whats-on/finding-father-christmas-at-the-museum 01872 262466 6 to 22 Dec: Finding Father Christmas at the Museum is a unique walking theatre, family storytelling and grotto experience brought to you by Truro BID, performed by Coppice Theatre. Rumour has it that Father Christmas is hiding in the museum and the elves need your help! Befriend an elf, listen to their stories, help them find Father Christmas, and explore the fascinating museum.

Book early, they sell out.

Heartlands, Pool www.heartlandscornwall.com 9 Dec 2pm: The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness! Squashbox Theatre’s show celebrates everything Christmassy, from fir trees, fairy lights, sleigh bells and snowflakes to crackers, carols, presents and puddings!

St Ives Theatre, kidzrus.net 10 Dec 7pm: Kidz at Christmas, fun-packed festive extravaganza.

20 to 22 Dec: Frozen JR, musical based on the film.

Do you have a passion for performance? Want to act or dance on the stage?

Sterts Theatre, 01579 362382 www.sterts.co.uk Liskeard Public Hall - 15, 16, 18 to 20 Dec 7pm, 16 & 20 Dec 2pm: Elf - the Musical with the renowned Sterts Theatre Company.

Sterts Studio, Upton Cross -17 Dec 2 & 4pm: Squashbox’s Christmassy Christmas Show.

Photo credit Gordon Scammell.

Then Hall for Cornwall Youth is for you!

Work with industry professionals to explore creativity, collaboration, acting techniques, ensemble chorusing, movement skills, voice work and more! Join in with regular workshops while working towards exciting projects and a huge summer spectacular on the Cornwall Playhouse stage.

One of Hall for Cornwall’s Youth Theatre actors said: ‘I LOVE Hall for Cornwall Youth Theatre! Saturdays are the best day of the week because of their creative workshops. I feel like I’ve finally found a group where I can be myself.’

If you’re interested in acting and performance, then this is the group for you. Discover workshops for ages 5 to 19 today! Join at hallforcornwall.co.uk or email getcreative@hallforcornwall.org.uk

Solomon Browne Hall, Mousehole 01872 384448 cousinjacks.org 16 to 31 Dec: The Mousehole Cat is back for an eighth consecutive year and is just magical! We were enthralled by the actors, live folk music and singing, and an utterly convincing life-size cat puppet. Based on the well-known Cornish legend, this delightful story of a fearless fisherman and his devoted cat will warm the cockles of everyone’s hearts... almost as much as an ‘efty portion of stargazy pie!

Relaxed performances at 11.30am. Mousehole’s famous Christmas lights are wonderful too. There are three ticket prices and a free ticket draw, just book the ticket that you can afford. Early booking is advised, it’s always a sell-out.

Photo credit - Hugh Hastings

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Theatre shows continued: Shire House Suite, Bodmin, /intobodmin.co.uk 16 Dec 2 & 4pm: Christmassy Christmas Show, Squashbox Theatre Kernow Chamber Players on tour www.kernowchamberplayers.com A Christmas Carol, spellbinding stage adaptation of Charles Dickens’ festive classic, performed by actor-director Tama Matheson, with a live ensemble performing classical music greats. Age 8+. 16 & 17 Dec: St Michael’s Helston.

18 Dec: Boconnoc. 19 Dec: St Allen, Truro.

20 & 21 Dec: Trebah Garden.

The Poly, Falmouth, thepoly.org. 01326 319461 17 Dec 11.30am & 2.30pm: Coppice Theatre Presents Jack Frost 7!

Jack is back for more fantastic festive storytelling with projections & innovative lighting; a magical experience for age 3+.

The Acorn, Penzance 01736 363545 theacornpenzance.com 21 Dec 2pm: Coppice’s Jack Frost 7 (see above) 22 Dec 3.30 & 6.30pm: The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness! Squashbox.

21 Jan 2pm: The Magic of Dinosaurs. Magician and comedy performer Greg Chapman’s comedy & magic show with mind-reading, stories, & puppets.

Regal Theatre, Redruth. 01209 216278 www.regaltheatre-redruth.co.uk 21 & 22 Dec: Santa’s Christmas Wish! Christmas is a season of joy, love and sharing, a time when Santa delivers presents all over the world... but what would he like for Christmas?

Dasher the Reindeer has an idea...Pompom the Penguin thinks he knows... or maybe Snowy the Snowman has the answer?

Join a fun, festive, musical adventure to give Santa the very best Christmas, then meet him in the North Pole! This festive, song-filled, interactive family show, lasts 45 minutes and is followed by a special meet, greet, and treat with Father Christmas himself!

10 to 14 Jan: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs presented by R.A.M.P.S. with toe tapping songs and dance routines.

The Minack Theatre, Porthcurno, minack.com 01736 810181 27 & 29 Dec 3pm: Squashbox theatre’s The Sea Show is a quirky and hilarious mix of puppet show, natural history and comedy cabaret. 1 Jan 3pm: John Brolly master storyteller with The Piskie in the Garden Lane Theatre, Newquay. lanetheatre.co.uk 01637 876945 2 to 4 Jan 7.30 pm & some matinees: Wonder Pantomime’s traditional pantomime Jack & The Beanstalk. Join Jack on his GIANT adventure as he climbs the beanstalk to an enchanted land of excitement and adventure, where he must rescue his friends and family from one very hungry giant!

Keay Theatre, St Austell www.ticketsource.co.uk 20 to 27 Jan, matinees & evening performances: Jack and the Beanstalk by Dave Crump. St Blazey Amateur Operatic Society’s traditional pantomime promises to be entertaining, colourful with plenty of music and laughter.

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Epworth Hall, Helston 01326 879500 www.helstontheatrecompany.co.uk 23 to 28 Jan: Sleeping Beauty. Join Helston Theatre Company in this captivating pantomime adventure, a timeless tale woven with tradition and sprinkled with magical moments!

Liskeard Public Hall 01726 63513 www.crbo.co.uk 25 & 26 Jan 7.30pm, 27 Jan 3.30pm: Liskeard Lions’ present Peter Pan.

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