Things to do in Cardiff around Christmas

Visit Caerdydd anytime after Mid November (exact date TBC) to see the stunning illuminations and light trails around the city centre.

Join in the festive spirit at Winter Wonderland in Caerdydd, located at the City Hall Lawn and in the grounds of Cardiff Castle. Skate on the open-air ice rink, enjoy the thrill of the fairground rides, or cosy up in the Alpine Village with a hot drink and a bite to eat. Winter Wonderland is open from mid November until early January (exact dates TBC).

In the lead up to Christmas, the city centre is transformed with the pop-up Christmas Market. The market has over 200 stalls selling unique crafts, gifts, food and drink. You can find everything from handmade jewellery, ceramics, candles, and textiles to local cheese, honey, gin, and chocolate. Stalls are open every day from mid November until around 23 December (exact dates TBC). Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm, with a late night to 7pm every Thursday in December and 10am to 5pm on Sundays.

As well as hitting the Christmas Market, Caerdydd is the perfect place to do your Christmas shopping, whether you're looking for big brands, independent boutiques or vintage treasures. The compact city centre allows you to easily browse the shops at Dewi Sant St David's Shopping Centre, Cardiff Indoor Market, The Hayes and Queen Street. Head to the Arcades for a range of quirky and charming independent shops and cafes.

Read more: Christmas shopping and Christmas markets in locations across Wales.

For a more natural setting, head to Bute Park, the green heart of the city. Explore the beautiful gardens, tranquil woodlands and riverbanks during the day. As darkness falls, discover the festive decorations and illuminations along the incredible light trail - Christmas at Bute Park is a feast of musical and visual delights. Join in one of the guided walks, workshops or family activities which run from late November – late December (exact dates TBC).

Celebrate the spirit of Christmas at the Cardiff Christmas Festival, held at Sophia Gardens Stadium The festival features live music, comedy, theatre, and dance performances, as well as a variety of stalls, food trucks, and bars in a heated Spiegeltent. The festival usually runs from early December to the end of December (exact dates TBC), with a variety of shows.

Breakfast With Speedboat Santa takes place Lisvane and Llanishen Breakfast with Speedboat Santa from mid December - just before Christmas (exact dates TBC) at Lisvane & Llanishen Reservoirs. Santa arrives by speedboat and then joins his very special guests in the café for a festive breakfast. He will then chat, have photos taken and present a gift.

If you're looking for some entertainment and laughter this festive season, Caerdydd’s theatres have a lively programme of pantomimes, family shows and seasonal musicals.

The Wales Millennium Centre and New Theatre host a number of great Christmas shows.

Read more: Your essential guide to Caerdydd's cultural venues

As well as all the city centre Christmas events, a few of our favourites are within easy reach of Caerdydd to visit.

Cadw love to put on festive family trails and events during December and Santa Claus and his elves set up their magical workshop at the Royal Mint Christmas Experience in Llantrisant. You can visit his Grotto from late November and around 23 December 2025 (exact dates TBC, book ahead, tickets are limited).

Read more: Events and days out in December across Cymru

Whether you’re seeking comfort, affordability, or a unique stay, you'll find plenty of places to stay in Caerdydd including a range of luxury hotels for a real festive treat. If you're planning a capital festive break, check out Jazzy Whipps' festive weekend break, things to do and city breaks for more inspiration for your trip. Our local's guide to eating in Caerdydd shares some of the best places to eat, and we have plenty of independent vegan-friendly places to eat too.

Search for more accommodation, activities and attractions in Caerdydd.