Swansea Bay is set to transform into a winter wonderland this November and December, with a packed line-up of festive events for all ages. From nostalgic markets and dazzling parades to creative workshops, thrilling rides and an ice sculpture trail, the city promises a Christmas season full of sparkle, tradition and celebration.
Festive attractions in the heart of Swansea
Waterfront Winterland makes a grand return from 21st November – 4th January, bringing back its much-loved undercover ice rink, Alpine Bar, funfair and Giant Wheel. Visitors can skate beneath twinkling lights, enjoy festive treats like toasted marshmallows and mulled wine, and take in panoramic views of the city from the top of the wheel.
The Swansea Victorian Christmas Fayre takes over Oxford Street, Princess Way and Portland Street from Thursday 20th to Sunday 23rd November, where visitors can browse artisan gifts, enjoy roasted chestnuts and mulled wine, and soak up live entertainment from carol singers and Victorian street performers.
On Sunday 23rd November, the city centre will come alive with the Swansea Christmas Parade, featuring dancers, bands, floats, superheroes, princesses and light-up characters. Santa will make his grand entrance to switch on the city’s Christmas lights, officially marking the start of the festive season.
Art, ice and all things nice
The BIG Christmas Family Paint Along takes place on Saturday 22nd November, inviting families to join Claire, The Paint Along Lady, for an afternoon of festive painting, prizes and seasonal fun at the Swansea Building Society Arena. Later that evening, The Big Christmas Paint Along will offer an 18+ twist on the experience, combining drinks, step-by-step painting and a DJ spinning Christmas classics.
Just a short stroll away, the Swansea Christmas Market will line Oxford Street and Portland Street from 29th November to 22nd December, filled with handcrafted gifts, delicious street food and seasonal drinks. The Bavarian Bar offers a cosy spot for hot chocolates and mulled wine, while the Carollers’ Cabin will host live performances and a sparkly Santa scene perfect for festive family photos. Don’t miss the Crafty Corner weekends on 5th – 7th Decemberand 12th – 14th December.
Adding even more sparkle, the city centre will host the ‘Fire and Ice’ event on the weekend of 6th – 7th December. Visitors can follow a nine-sculpture ice trail through the city, try the interactive ice wall, and watch live carving shows. The atmosphere will heat up with pyrotechnic displays, fire jugglers and street entertainers. Families can enjoy live music, capture photos inside a giant snow globe near the Carollers’ Cabin, and toast treats at the giant marshmallow pit. Each ice sculpture will be created from scratch daily, making both days of the event uniquely special.
The festive celebrations continue on 13th – 14th December with the Mistletoe and Market weekend, a family-focused event featuring magic shows, live music, photo opportunities and festive characters spreading Christmas cheer throughout the city.
With festive fun around every corner, Swansea Bay invites visitors to wrap up warm, bring their Christmas spirit and make magical memories this holiday season.
For full listings, timings and updates, visit the Visit Swansea Bay ‘What’s On’ page at www.visitswanseabay.com/whats-on.
