Christmas at the Custom House

The packed programme begins with a Willow Star Workshop on the evening of Tuesday 5 December. Join the team from Weird Sticks CIC to learn how to create your own illuminated willow star to adorn your home (or give as a unique gift) this Christmas. The crafting fun continues on the Thursday (7 December), when Helen McCormick will be hosting a fun evening learning the Basics of Lino Printing, so you can create your own beautiful Christmas cards. Both of these activities are now bookable via the links above. . 

The creative Christmas fun carries on Saturday 9 December, when Art Work Exeter (who are Cultural Partners to the Exeter Customs House) will be a free FREE drop-in Tree Ornament Workshop between 11am – 3pm to create fancy tree ornaments using recycled or scrap materials. Activities will include metal embossing, decoupage, glitter and more. There’s no need to book, but each hour-long sessions starts on the hour.

The seasonal programme takes a tuneful turn for the last two events, starting with Midwinter Poetry and Harp on the evening of Wednesday 13 December. Organised by Literature Works (who are also Cultural Partners) as part of the Quay Words initiative, Bristol-based poet Caleb Parkin will be joined by electroacoustic harpist, Scarlett Smith for an event that is described as “not a run-up to midwinter, but a slow-down.” Expect an interactive event focussed on rest, recovery and stillness that keeps in mind nature’s rhythms and the need for recuperation at the time of year when days are shortest.

The programme finishes on a sing-along seasonal high on the afternoon of Saturday 16 December when Mum’s Choir Exeter will be performing in front of the Custom House between 2pm and 3pm. People are encouraged to wrap-up warm and soak up the Christmas cheer as the choir sing a selection of carols and well-known Christmas songs, suitable for all the family. 

Alan Williamson, Chair ECQT said; “Once again we have a wonderful programme of activities for all the family and I would encourage you to come and join in the festive fun. The team will be decorating the huge Christmas tree that greets people as they enter the building and always adds a bit of traditional magic to the 17^th century building. Exeter Quay also makes a fantastic place to visit over the holiday season, with a range of local businesses selling unique gifts and tasty treats. So why not combine a visit to the Exeter Custom House with a spot of seasonal shopping or socialising?”