Top Events in Cardiff for 2025

Tuesday, 28 January 2025

PERFECT FOR ART ENTHUSIASTS

Streic! 84-85 Strike!

Now – 27 April 2025

1984: The year Margaret Thatcher took on the mining communities. A summer of hope and high-spirited defiance leading to a winter of violence, hardship, loss of livelihoods – and ultimately life – across some of Wales’ hardiest communities.

Forty years later, the effect of the Miners’ Strike lives on. From photos and placards of protest to personal stories of comradeship in their clash against a rapidly changing world, this important exhibition opens the door on the Miners’ Strike and its profound impact upon our nation.

Experience the passion and tension of the protest, in close up.

PERFECT FOR BOOKWORMS

Cardiff Children’s Literature Festival 2025

Sat 29 Mar – Sun 30 Mar 2025, various venues

The Cardiff Children’s Literature Festival is a delightful event for young readers, taking place on April 22nd and 23rd at City Hall and the National Museum. The festival features a packed program of author readings, illustrator workshops, and interactive sessions in both English and Welsh. It’s a wonderful way to inspire a love of reading in children and enjoy a family-friendly day out.

PERFECT FOR SPORTS FANS

Glamorgan Cricket in ECB’s Vitality Blast

4 Apr 2025 – 24 Sep 2025, Sophia Gardens

Cricket fans can look forward to an exciting season of the ECB’s Vitality Blast at Sophia Gardens. Glamorgan Cricket Club will host several matches, including doubleheaders featuring both the men’s and women’s teams45. The fast-paced T20 format is perfect for a fun day out with friends or family, enjoying the thrilling atmosphere of live cricket.

PERFECT FOR COMEDY FANS

Rhod Gilbert & The Giant Grapefruit

Thu 24 Apr – Sat 26 Apr 2025, Utilita Arena Cardiff

Comedy lovers won’t want to miss Rhod Gilbert’s new show, “The Giant Grapefruit,” at the Utilita Arena Cardiff. Running from April 24th to 26th, this show marks Gilbert’s return to the stage with his signature dark humor and personal anecdotes. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy a night of laughter with one of the UK’s top comedians.

PERFECT FOR MUSIC LOVERS

TK Maxx presents DEPOT Live series

12 Jun 2025 -24 Aug 2025, Cardiff Castle, Blackweir and Bute Park (Coopers Field)

Music enthusiasts will love the DEPOT Live series at Cardiff Castle, featuring a lineup of incredible shows throughout the summer. From June 8th to July 5th, 2024, artists like Fisher, The Smashing Pumpkins, Weezer, and Manic Street Preachers will perform in the historic setting of Cardiff Castle. This event promises a unique blend of music and history, making it a highlight of Cardiff’s cultural calendar.

PERFECT FOR FOODIES

Cardiff Food and Drink Festival 2025

Fri 27 Jun – Sun 29 Jun 2025, Roald Dahl Plass

The Cardiff Food and Drink Festival is a must-visit for food lovers. Held from June 27th to 29th at Roald Dahl Plass in Cardiff Bay, this festival is Wales’ largest free food event. Visitors can enjoy a variety of culinary delights from the Producers Fair, Farmers Market, and Street Food Piazza. The festival also features live music at the Bandstand and a Crafters Market with handmade goods. It’s a fantastic opportunity to sample local produce and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Cardiff Bay.

PERFECT FOR THEATRE-GOERS

Nye

Fri 22 Aug – Sat 30 Aug 2025, Wales Millennium Centre

The play “Nye” at the Wales Millennium Centre is a must-see for theatre enthusiasts. Running from August 22nd to 30th, this production stars Michael Sheen as Aneurin Bevan, the founder of the NHS. The play takes the audience on a journey through Bevan’s life, from his childhood to his political battles, offering a powerful and moving portrayal of one of Wales’ most influential figures.

PERFECT FOR FILM BUFFS

Iris Prize LGBT+ Film Festival

Mon 13 Oct – Sun 19 Oct 2025, Vue Cinema

The Iris Prize LGBT+ Film Festival is a global celebration of LGBTQ+ stories, held from October 13th to 19th in Cardiff. The festival features a diverse range of short and feature films, panel discussions, and special events. It also awards the prestigious £40,000 Iris Prize, the largest short film prize in the world. This festival is a fantastic platform for filmmakers and a vibrant cultural event for the city.