Cardiff’s award-winning festive light trail is back!
Christmas at Bute Park returns tonight, November 22, and promises to light up the city until January 1. If you’re looking for an excuse to gather your family, round up your mates, or just take a stroll through Bute park which has been transformed a glittering wonderland, this is it.
This year, the award-winning event has a fresh new look. The 2024 trail features a totally revamped layout packed with jaw-dropping installations. Think glowing mushrooms, dancing lights, and some seriously stunning photo opportunities—because let’s be honest, your Instagram could use a bit of festive sparkle.
What’s New for 2024?
One of the star attractions this year is the Mycelium Network, a mesmerising display of glowing mushrooms created by fibre-optics wizard Stevie Thompson. Imagine walking through a magical forest, where the ground beneath you transforms into a carpet of colour-changing fungi. It’s like stepping into a real-life Christmas fairytale.
And then there’s Over The Rainbow, an absolute showstopper designed by the brilliant team at Ithaca Studios—the same folks behind the light displays at Kew Gardens, Glastonbury, and even Coldplay’s concerts. This installation transforms two 400-year-old trees in Bute Park with over 3,000 lights programmed to “dance” to specially composed music. It’s the kind of spectacle that leaves you staring in awe, with a bit of festive magic buzzing in the air.
More Than Just Lights
Christmas at Bute Park isn’t just about incredible visuals. The trail has plenty of cosy food and drink options dotted along the route—perfect for warming up with a hot chocolate (or mulled wine, if that’s more your vibe). Plus, the layout makes it easy to enjoy at your own pace, whether you’re on a family outing or enjoying a festive date night.
So, if you haven’t got your tickets yet, what are you waiting for? Grab them online before heading down, and prepare to step into Cardiff’s most magical Christmas experience.
Christmas at Bute Park runs from November 22 to January 1.
Tickets start at £14, with discounts for kids and families – Tickets available here
Don’t forget your gloves—it’s chilly out there, but the lights are 100% worth
