Get ready to step into the festive season with Cardiff’s top Christmas events, kicking off this November! With light trails, festive markets, enchanting shows, and winter wonderlands, there’s magic around every corner.
From dazzling installations that tell Welsh stories under the stars to thrilling ice walks, hearty seasonal treats, and sing-along Christmas classics, this year’s holiday events are set to be better than ever. So dust off those scarves and get ready to dive into the best of Cardiff’s festive season—here’s what’s not to be missed this November! Here’s your ultimate guide:
1. The Light of Winter Trail – Cardiff Aurora
Launch Date: Thursday, November 14
Location: Across Cardiff city centre
Launching November 14, Cardiff Aurora will light up the city with 11 breathtaking installations, taking visitors on a journey through Wales’ winter landscapes and into Cardiff’s glowing city lights. Commissioned by FOR Cardiff and Christmas at Bute Park, this projection, designed by Illuminos with Welsh artists Sahar Saki, Jack Skivens, Frank Duffy, and Beth Blandford, is a visual celebration of Welsh art, folklore, and tradition.
2. Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland
Dates: November 14, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Location: Cardiff Castle and City Hall Lawn
Back from November 14 to January 5, Winter Wonderland spreads across Cardiff Castle and City Hall Lawn, featuring an ice rink, ice walk, funfair rides, and the famous Ice Bar. It’s the perfect setting for skating under the stars or a cozy drink in the Ice Bar’s frosty ambiance.
3. Christmas at Bute Park
Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 1, 2025
Location: Bute Park
Cardiff’s award-winning light trail, Christmas at Bute Park, returns on November 22. Running until January 1, this immersive experience is packed with enchanting lights and Instagram-worthy scenes, making it a must-visit for families and friends alike.
7. Mr. Claus’ Kitchen
Date: First date Saturday, November 30, 2024
Location: Mermaid Quay
A magical experience for families, Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen offers story time, games with cheery elves, and gingerbread decorating. Little ones can also write letters to Santa and leave with a candy cane. This event brings the holiday spirit to life with fun and festive activities for kids. sessions run throughout the day from Unit 13, in between Pavers and Fabulous Welshcakes
4. Cardiff Christmas Market
Dates: November 14 – December 23, 2024
Location: Cardiff city centre
The Christmas Market opens on November 14, running through December 23 in Cardiff city center. Overflowing with local art, crafts, and seasonal treats, it’s a fantastic spot for unique holiday shopping and festive cheer.
5. Cardiff Christmas Festival at the Spiegel Theatre
Dates: Starts November 29, 2024
Location: Sophia Gardens
Enjoy an array of holiday performances in the atmospheric Spiegel Theatre at Sophia Gardens. Kicking off with Christmas at the Movies (November 30) and Welsh of the West End (November 29-30), the lineup also includes Aled Jones’ Christmas Songbook featuring The Snowman (December 7-8), The Snow Queen, Dafydd Iwan, and My Favourite Things – Christmas Cabaret Spectacular.
Make this November a festive season to remember with these unforgettable Christmas events right here in Cardiff!
6. Winter Wunderland at Tiger Yard
Dates: November – December 2024
Location: Tiger Yard, Cardiff
Cardiff’s newest cozy holiday escape, Winter Wunderland at Tiger Yard is back bringing warm décor, seasonal treats, and a dose of holiday fun. This indoor wonderland also features a unique dry ice-curling experience, perfect for families, friends, or work outings to add a dash of friendly competition to your festivities.
So dust off those scarves and get ready to dive into the best of Cardiff’s festive season—here’s what’s not to be missed this November!
