Simon L
10 November 2017
Wales still has many traditions and quiet New Year's Eve customs that take place in remote villages away from the outside world. When visiting Wales there are many of places to experience over New Year and it can often be difficult to know where to begin. Therefore, we've picked what we think are some of the best New Year's Eve events in Wales to help guide you to where you want to be when the clock strikes 12!
Fishguard
Set in the beautiful county of Pembrokeshire, the coastal town of Fishguard has a reputation of holding the best New Year's Eve street party in the whole of Wales. Promoted for children and all the family, this party spreads through the whole town. Expect a stage with bands playing music all night, stalls selling food along the streets and pubs to warm the masses. At midnight the traditional fireworks display sees in 2018.
Browse our cottages to find a place to stay and explore the stunning Fishguard area over New Year.
Llanwrtyd Wells
You are invited to the small town of Llanwrtyd Wells to participate in their New Year's Eve tradition of the ‘Mari' - a decorated horse's skull carried on a pole marched from the middle of the town to the edge followed by a large crowd carrying flaming torches. At a nearby hotel, the ancient Welsh tradition of ‘Mari Lwyd' takes place, where there is an exchange of challenges and banter between the Mari and the hotel's occupants, which must be completed before admission to the bar is allowed. All before returning to the town square in time for the midnight celebrations.
The walk begins at 10.30pm in Llanwrtyd Wells. To book your place at this unique event, visit the website here.
Cardiff City Centre
When it comes to New Year's Eve in South Wales (or even Wales in general!), many places have their own unique charm and characteristics that make visiting them worthwhile and memorable. However, when it comes to sheer scale and all-round family entertainment, Cardiff easily takes the crown. The city has an abundance of shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars to whisk away the hours until the clocks signal the end of 2017.
The extra special Winter Wonderland is the main attraction in Cardiff City Centre. Open throughout December and into January, this is a special place to visit on December 31st with your loved ones. Enjoy the last few days of the festive period in bright colours and cheery atmosphere. The Alpine Village does great food and drink, the funfair provides laughs and the ice rink brings a snowy feel to the party. At midnight the fireworks can be seen and the party atmosphere will be enjoyed by all.
Saundersfoot
For something different on New Year's Day then head to Saundersfoot for the traditional and charitable fancy dress sea swim, the 31st occasion of this event which has gone from strength to strength in recent years. If your head is feeling a little fuzzy from the night before's celebrations, you'll find that nothing cures like a cold swim to raise money for a selection of worthwhile charities. Starting at 12.30pm on the beach, crowds of people still in fancy dress brave the cold water while those not participating are encouraged to cheer those taking the plunge all for a good cause.
For more details about the swim, and to find out how to donate in advance, visit the website here.
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.