Santa might put us on his naughty list, but with only 100 days to go until the big day, we can’t resist unwrapping some of the magical events and experiences that will make Christmas in Cardiff 2025 one to remember.
An Ice Rink in a Castle
Cardiff Castle provides a magical backdrop for this year’s Winter Wonderland Ice Rink and Ice Walk, open from 13 November 2025 until 4 January 2026. From romantic sunset skates to family sessions complete with penguin skate-aids, it’s a must-do festive activity whatever the weather.
Winter Wonderland at City Hall Lawn
The festive fun continues at Winter Wonderland’s second site outside City Hall, where rides, funfair games and the ever-popular Sur La Piste après-ski bar return. Expect free family entertainment throughout the season. Entry is free from 13 November 2025 to 4 January 2026.
Christmas at Bute Park
Now in its fifth year, the award-winning Christmas light trail will once again transform Bute Park into a glowing winter wonderland. Visitors can explore a mile-long illuminated route designed by local and international artists. The trail runs from 21 November to 31 December 2025.
Cardiff Christmas Festival in the Spiegeltent
The iconic Spiegeltent returns to Sophia Gardens for an enchanting programme of shows. From a Victorian-inspired adaptation of A Christmas Carol to a Swingin’ Christmas with The Rat Pack, an ABBA Christmas celebration and a Taylor Swift tribute, there’s something for everyone. Shows run from 5 to 31 December 2025.
Cardiff Christmas Market
For those hunting for the perfect gift, the Christmas Market will feature 70 stalls offering jewellery, artwork, ceramics, textiles and festive treats from local makers. The traditional wooden chalets will light up the city centre from 13 November to 23 December 2025.
A Victorian Christmas Stroll
Cardiff’s Victorian Arcades will once again be dressed for the season, perfect for a festive wander among boutique shops, cafés and restaurants. Nearby, Central Market offers everything from street food to vintage finds, adding to the city’s Christmas shopping charm.
St David’s Dewi Sant
With more than 160 shops, cafés and restaurants, St David’s remains Cardiff’s top shopping destination. This year it welcomes Wales’ first Sephora store, alongside high-street favourites, designer brands and family attractions such as Treetop Golf and Cineworld.
The Festive Quarter
The Bavarian-style Festive Quarter on Working Street offers the ideal pit stop during Christmas shopping. Enjoy bratwurst, beer and festive cheer in a cosy wooden cabin atmosphere. Open daily from 13 November 2025.
Christmas Lights and Cardiff Aurora
Cardiff’s Christmas lights will switch on from 13 November 2025, casting a glow across the city centre. Following last year’s success, a brand-new Aurora projection will appear at Cardiff Central station, with another secret installation to be revealed.
Meet Santa at the Grottos
Santa and his elves will be setting up magical grottos at Cardiff Castle, Principality Stadium and John Lewis Cardiff. Children can even journey through Santa’s Post Office, based on an exclusive LEGO® set, before meeting the man himself and taking home a special gift.
Festive Food and Drink
Cardiff’s food scene comes alive at Christmas. Highlights include The Ivy’s Midnight Express experience, filled with twinkling lights and seasonal feasts, or a locally sourced menu at Daffodil paired with fine wines.
Festive Hotel Stays
For a little extra indulgence, why not extend your Christmas visit with an overnight stay? From spa hotels to city centre boutiques and Cardiff Bay hideaways, there’s something for every festive getaway.
Councillor Jennifer Burke, Cabinet Member for Culture, Parks and Events, said:
“Christmas in Cardiff is always special and with only 100 days to go until the big day, now is the time to start looking forward to making even more magical memories.”
