Simon L
10 March 2018
Christmas markets, festive food fayres, ice skating – there are plenty of fantastic Christmas events in Wales this year.
From events in Cardiff and Swansea up to unique markets in Snowdonia, there are plenty of things to do in Wales this Christmas.
We've rounded up 11 of the best events for you to make a note of on your calendar:
Where? Swansea (Museum Park, the National Waterfront Museum)
When? 17th November until 7th January
What? Ice skating, Santa's Grotto, a family funfair and festive foods all await you at Swansea's main Christmas event, while there will also be film showings including Miracle On 34th Street. A Christmas market runs simultaneously on Oxford Street, while there's also a Christmas Parade on the 19th November when the city's Christmas lights will be switched on.
Where? Surf Snowdonia - Dolgarrog in the Conwy Valley
When? 10th and 11th December
What? Probably the coolest Christmas market in the UK takes place at Surf Snowdonia, the world's first artificial surfing lake. There will be stalls, a real ale tent, music, fair rides and Father Christmas in his surf-side grotto.
Where? City Hall Lawns, Cardiff
When? Until 7th January
What? An ice rink, authentic bierkeller and funfair all await you at Cardiff's popular Winter Wonderland event. There's also an Alpine Village, where revellers can tuck into delicious treats including German sausages and crepes.
Where? Royal Welsh Showground, Llanelwedd
When? 27th and 28th November
What? One of the biggest British agricultural shows, the two-day event sees leading stockmen from across the UK compete for top accolades. There will also be a showcase of fantastic Welsh food producers and trade stands, offering an early chance to start your Christmas shopping.
Where? North Beach, Tenby
When? Boxing Day (December 26th)
What? Hundreds of bathers brave the waves every Boxing Day in Tenby, raising money for charities and good causes. The 2017 event will be the 47th time dippers have taken the chilly plunge, while there will also be a canoe race, crazy raft race and fancy-dress parade.
Where? St John Street, Working Street, the Hayes, Hills Street and Trinity Street (Cardiff)
When? Until 23rd December
What? The popular Christmas Market right in the heart of Cardiff has been going for more than 20 years now, offering a unique shopping experience. Expect more than 200 businesses selling a range of arts, crafts, food and drink.
Where? Caerphilly Town Centre
When? 9th and 10th December
What? Funfair rides, mulled wine and street theatre await you at one of Wales' most popular Christmas Fayres. There will be more than 100 stalls offering food, craft and gift ideas – perfect for picking up a few presents and trying a few new things yourself.
Where? Across Wales
When? Throughout December
What? Illuminated gardens, candlelit walks, carols, choirs and Father Christmas all await you at Wales' National Trust properties and parks.
Where? Cardiff Motorpoint Arena
When? 8th December
What? The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra will perform music from Dreamworks classics including Shrek, Kung Fu Panda and Madagascar while clips are shown in HD on a giant screen.
Where? Chepstow Racecourse
When? 27th December
What? The Welsh Grand National is one of the most prestigious jump fixtures in the UK and the richest race in Wales with £150,000 prize money up for grabs in the big race. There will be musical entertainment in the form of Wild Murphys, Shan Cothi and Rebecca Evans.
Where? The Market Hall, Upper Brewery Yard and The Priory in Abergavenny
When? 10th December
What? The largest and longest-running food festival in Wales returns this year with chefs, food businesses and producers coming together for a celebration of Welsh cuisine. More than 30,000 visitors descend on the medieval market town, generating around £4 million for the local economy.
Thinking of visiting one of these fantastic events but don't have anywhere to stay? Allow us to be of assistance! Click here to view our range of Welsh cottages.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.