Christmas is Coming!
Yes, September 16th marks the beginning of our 100 day countdown to Christmas. This year’s seasonal celebrations will officially get underway from Thu 13 November as Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland opens alongside our Christmas Market and the city centre lights are switched on for the first time.
There’s never a bad time to Visit Cardiff but there’s always something magical about the city during the festive season, it really is the most wonderful time of the year. We just love it when those dark and dreary winter nights are warmed up with a mulled wine and brightened by beautiful Christmas lights. Whatever makes it special for you, there’s definitely something for everyone to look forward to, here are all the top reasons to Visit Cardiff this Christmas.
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WIN A FESTIVE CITY BREAK FOR TWO
Thanks to our brilliant partners, the prize includes; a two-night stay at the Leonardo Hotel, tickets to the New Theatre’s pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, a festive Saturday night dinner at The Ivy Cardiff, a £200 FOR Cardiff gift voucher to spend in shops in the City Centre, entry tickets to Cardiff Castle and ice skating at Winter Wonderland.
Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland
Cardiff’s much-loved Winter Wonderland returns to the Castle grounds and City Hall lawns with it’s famous undercover ice-rink and family funfair among a whole host of attractions. Alongside the alpine ski-lodge bar, Sur la Piste, seasonal entertainment and festive food and drink stalls, Winter Wonderland really is at the heart of Cardiff’s seasonal celebrations.
See Santa in Cardiff
The whole festive season is building up to the big day, when boys and girls wake up and hope that Father Christmas has left them lots of presents. For those who can’t stand the wait until December 25, some good news, you can catch an early appointment with Santa Claus in Cardiff. Sometimes, he might even be appear to be in several locations at the same time but it’s Christmas magic and we don’t question it.
CARDIFF CHRISTMAS MARKET
The annual Christmas Market in Cardiff aims to support genuine artists and crafts people in promoting and selling their work. From Thu 13 Nov to Tue 23 Dec 2025, discover what makes Cardiff's Christmas Market unique with another incredible selection of arts and crafts, together with wonderful food and alcohol producers.
Christmas Events in Cardiff
Nothing helps the festive feeling like getting out and about for some fun with the family. As well as the usual Christmas Market, Bute Park has an exciting outdoor light trail to look forward to. Along with our famous Winter Wonderland and so much more, it really is most wonderful time of the year.
Christmas Pantomime and Shows
Whether it’s the annual pantomime, a West End style musical, or a seasonal concert, Christmas shows are a highlight of many people’s festive calendar. Don’t miss the Fortuna Spiegel Theatre, returning to Sophia Gardens for the Cardiff Christmas Festival.
CARDIFF CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
Cardiff looks amazing at Christmas Time, with a beautiful display of lights all around the city centre. You can also follow the Bute Park Light Trail, plus Winter Wonderland, the Christmas Market, and Festive Quarter will be lighting up the capital.
Christmas Shopping in Cardiff
With big name brands, boutique arcades, a Christmas market full of uniquely hand crafted gifts, not to mention the city’s biggest shopping centre, St David’s Dewi Sant with over 150 shops, restaurants and cafes. Cardiff is the perfect place to wrap up your Christmas shopping!
Christmas Food and Drink
During the festive season, a little (or maybe more) over indulgence is generally accepted. Whether you’re heading out for the office Christmas do, drinks with friends, dinners with the family, or just grabbing a tasty treat to take the edge of that frosty winter air, Cardiff has plenty of choice to keep you satisfied!
