Cardiff’s popular Christmas at Bute Park light trail is returning with a brand-new theme for 2026, taking visitors through four festive realms of Joy, Wonder, Hope and Magic.
The Spirit of Christmas at Bute Park will transform the city centre park into an illuminated festive world, complete with mischievous elves, rainbow tunnels, giant Brussels sprouts and Father Christmas soaring through a starlit sky.
Actress and presenter Justine Jones has also lent her voice to a new video showcasing what visitors can expect from this year’s experience.
Known for presenting BBC Morning Live and BBC Radio Wales, Justine has recorded a playful voiceover introducing the new trail and its festive installations.
Visitors will be tasked with helping to keep the Christmas Spirit alive as they journey through the four realms, encountering Mischievous Elves, Rainbow Ribbons and Starlit Reflections along the way.
Among this year’s installations is Colossal Christmas, featuring a supersized Brussels Sprout Christmas tree surrounded by enormous crackers and twinkling lights.
Rainbow Ribbons will create a colourful tunnel beneath an overhead UV canopy, while Cosmic Canopy will take visitors through a starlit passageway featuring Father Christmas and his reindeer soaring across a sky filled with twinkling constellations.
Justine, who starred as Becky the dinner lady in BBC Wales comedy Mammoth, said she was delighted to be involved with this year’s trail.
She said: “I absolutely love Christmas and what better way to enjoy the festive season than walking around a beautiful light trail with your family. It’s a breathtaking exhibit in the centre of the Welsh capital, and I am delighted to play a little part in this year’s trail. Recording a voiceover about Christmas in the middle of a heatwave was so funny, but I’m truly honoured to be a part of something so special.
“Most of my childhood memories are based around Christmas, and it’s such a magical time for families. I can’t wait to walk around and see this year’s trail. I know it’s going to be amazing.”
Alongside the illuminated trail, the Christmas Village will return with a selection of food and drink providers.
Returning favourites will be joined by new street food vendors, while choir performances will also feature as part of the festive experience.
Two inclusive evenings will be held for neurodiverse guests, featuring reduced audience capacity and reduced audio volume.
Tickets remain available for the trail, with a 10% discount offer launching on Friday and running until September 30.
Visitors can use the code BUTE10 when purchasing tickets to receive the discount.
