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WHERE CAN YOU MEET SANTA IN CARDIFF THIS YEAR?
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. We have good news for those who can’t stand the wait, with some of the best grottoes in south Wales there are plenty of opportunities to catch an early appointment with Santa Claus in Cardiff*. So, get your Christmas lists together and make sure that you’re all very good boys and girls.
*It can sometimes seem like he’s appearing in several locations at the same time… but this is obviously Christmas magic and we don’t question it.
Santa at the Castle
Where: Cardiff Castle
When: 29 Nov – 22 Dec
Join a group visit through a selection of Cardiff Castle’s most spectacular rooms, beautifully decorated for Christmas. In one of these magical locations, Santa will be waiting to greet you. All children will have time to talk to him individually and choose a gift from a selection of quality toys.
Santa’s Enchanted Grotto
Where: John Lewis & Partners
When: Fri, 5 December – Wed, 24 December 2025
John Lewis and The LEGO® Group present Santa’s Enchanted Grotto. You’ll take to the skies on an unbelievable adventure to reach Santa’s Post Office – based on our exclusive LEGO® set.
Royal Mint Christmas Experience
Where: The Royal Mint Experience
When: Sat, 22 November – Tue, 23 December 2025
Meet Santa and his elves as you venture through an enchanting workshop and discover timeless tales of Christmas traditions that begin with a single coin. The Royal Mint Christmas Experience does not include a factory tour and is, instead, a festive experience.
Sunday Lunch with Santa
Where: Future Inns, Cardiff Bay
When: Sun, 7, 14 and 21 December 2025
Make magical memories with the whole family at our Sunday Lunch with Santa! Enjoy a festive meal, fun activities for the little ones, and a special visit from Santa himself, complete with a gift for every child. A heart-warming way to get into the Christmas spirit!
Santa at the Stadium
Where: Principality Stadium
When: 13-24 December 2025
Explore the sacred halls of Principality Stadium before stepping into the magical winter wonderland, and beating heart of the home of Welsh Rugby. A place where heroes gather, a place of legends, a place of dreams. Experience the magic of Christmas in one of the most unique settings in the UK.
Breakfast with Elves
Where: The Ivy,
When: 14 – 23 December 2025
This festive season, The Ivy Cardiff invites guests to the Naughty Elves Breakfast, a festive dining experience filled with mischievous entertainment for the whole family. Families will take home festive goodies, including an Ivy Bear for children and a glass Ivy bauble for adults.
Breakfast with Speedboat Santa
Where: Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs
When: 13 – 24 December 2025
With his reindeers building up their strength for Christmas Eve, Santa will arrive in his own speedboat! He will then join his very special guests in the café for festive food. After the meal, he will chat, sit with them for photos and present a gift.
Dine with Santa Experience
Where: Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs
When: 20 December 2025
Savour a delightful three-course meal with your loved ones in the run-up to Christmas, soaking up the festive atmosphere as the anticipation for Santa’s arrival builds. During your meal, Santa himself will visit your table, taking time to chat with the children and listen to their Christmas wishes.
VISIT CARDIFF AT CHRISTMAS
There’s never a bad time to Visit Cardiff, with so many events, attractions and things to see in Wales’ thriving capital, but there’s just always something magical about the city at Christmas time. So, feel the spirit of the season come to life, whatever makes it special for you, Christmas in Cardiff has something for everyone.
