Things to do in Cardiff around Christmas

Visit Caerdydd anytime after 12 November 2026 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 12 November 2026 -  03 January 2027, with an open-air ice rink and Ice Walk at Cardiff Castle, accessible big wheel and a new Curling Experience, fairground rides on City Hall Lawn and free family entertainment throughout the season.

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 12 November until 23 December 2026. Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm, with a late night to 7pm every Thursday in December and 10am to 5pm on Sundays.

New for 2026, Cardiff Victorian Christmas Market takes place on Queen Street from 12 to 15 November. Decorated stalls, costumed traders, live entertainment, roaming performers and festive food and drink create a traditional Victorian Christmas atmosphere

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 Flag Award winning 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 runs from 19 November - 31 December 2026.

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 late November until late December, with a variety of shows.

Breakfast With Speedboat Santa takes place Lisvane and Llanishen Breakfast with Speedboat Santa from 12 - 24 December 2026 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. This year's festive programme includes Beauty and the Beast at New Theatre, while Wales Millennium Centre hosts Mamma Mia! and Matilda the Musical.

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 28 November to 23 December 2026. 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.