Popular Christmas festival cancelled - organisers

This year would have marked the 17th year of the festival, organisers said

A popular seaside Christmas festival has been cancelled due to what organisers said were "unforeseen circumstances".

Padstow Christmas Festival 2024 announced the news on the event's website.

Sharp's Brewery, the event's primary sponsor, said it was "deeply saddened" by the decision.

Organisers said the event was no longer viable due to “escalating costs and lack of sponsorship”.

Nick White, events manager at Sharp's Brewery, said as "a longstanding loyal and primary sponsor" the company was excited to support this year's event.

"We're deeply saddened by the decision to cancel it but understand the difficulties facing the event industry and suppliers in the current economic climate," he said.

Organiser Tina Evans wrote to traders saying she had been left with no alternative but to cancel the event.

She said: “Having paid out deposits and initial costs, it has become painfully obvious that the festival could not carry on.”

“So to minimise the financial loss as far as possible to cancel now is the best option.”

'Difficult decision'

The annual event, which would have marked its 17th year in 2024, included demonstrations from top chefs and stall holders.

Mr White said the brewery extended its sympathy to those behind the event and it recognised a "difficult decision" had been made.

He said the festival "greatly" benefitted the town and beyond.

"Since its inception, all those years ago, it has almost become synonymous with Padstow," he said.

"Which, come December is abuzz with celebrity chefs, incredible food and drink and a wonderful festive feeling.

"We're so proud to have played a part in that for over a decade."

'Really surprised'

Kim Conchie, chief executive of Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, said he was "really surprised" by the festival's cancellation.

"It's one of those events that's become very much a part of the Cornwall calendar," he said.

"I was doubly surprised it's happening in early May, this kind of announcement.

"Normally if an event like this is going to fail it's because there aren't enough stand bookings near to the event, but we all know it's been a huge success for many years now."

George Malde, owner of Cornish Rock Gin, said he had paid £4,000 to be a sponsor for the event.

"I couldn't believe it," he said.

"The best festival in Cornwall's been cancelled."