- ABERGAVENNY
- BARRY
- BRECON
- BRIDGEND
- CARDIFF
- CARMARTHEN
- CHEPSTOW
- CRICKHOWELL
- EBBW VALE
- GROSMONT
- MERTHYR TYDFIL
- NEATH
- NEWPORT
- PEMBREY
- PONTARDAWE
- PONTYPOOL
- PONTYPRIDD
- RAGLAN
- RHONDDA
- SWANSEA
- TALBOT GREEN
- TREORCHY
- USK
- 20 THINGS TO DO ON CHRISTMAS EVE
- ALTERNATIVE CHRISTMAS DAY
- MAKE A SNOW GLOBE
- A LETTER FROM ‘YOU KNOW WHO’
- FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS SONGS
ABERDARE
CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
Not a lot of information as yet. Experience the magic at Aberdare Christmas Festival on Sunday, December 1st! Revel in the Christmas Parade, Christmas Market, Funfair, and Light Switch-On.
More details (when they’re available) HERE.
ABERGAVENNY
TOWN CENTRE CHRISTMAS MARKET
Come for the cheer, stay for the community!
Time: 9am – 5pm
For more details on the TOWN CENTRE CHRISTMAS MARKET go HERE.
There’s also the Christmas Artisan Market on Sunday 24th!
You’ll find everyone in the market hall – 65 stallholders- and the street food stands in the courtyard!
BARRY
FONMAN CASTLE CHRISTMAS
Fonman hope you have a magical time as you wander through the Illuminated Gardens and Dinosaurs and enjoy the atmosphere of Christmas.
Santa shows will run throughout the evening and can be found just in front of the castle entrance.
Experience a magical festive time as you wander our estate through acres of illuminated walks and meet costumed characters along the way.
The Gold Christmas Experience gets you a private meet and greet with Santa Claus and his elves and enjoy a “Special Tea Party” with your child.
Your child will have a personal experience with Santa Claus and will receive a gift from the “Jolly Man” himself, make forever memories at Fonmon Castle.
- Private meeting with Santa
- Tea Party with Santa’s Elves
- A Gift
- Access to the Festive Lights.
- Live Santa Show from the balcony of the Castle
- Live Music
- Costumed festive characters
- Photo points
- Festive themed “Story Trail”
- The Christmas Wizard alongside the Fairy Kingdom.
- Meet the Owls in the Medieval Farm.
- Meet Mrs. Claus
- Magician interaction
- Festive illuminated Dinosaur Walk
- Live Puppet performers
- Festive Shops
Your arrival time is 3pm, the Tea With Santa starting at 3.30pm and runs until 5pm.
Spaces are limited to 50 places in total, you will be able to access the festive castle before the rest of the public arrive for the evenings entertainment.
The Silver Christmas Experience gives you ……
- Access to the Festive Lights.
- Live Santa Show from the balcony of the Castle
- Live Music
- Costumed festive characters
- Photo points
- Festive themed “Story Trail”
- The Christmas Wizard alongside the Fairy Kingdom.
- Meet the Owls in the Medieval Farm.
- Meet Mrs. Claus
- Magician interaction
- Festive illuminated Dinosaur Walk
- Live Puppet performers
- Festive Shops
Your arrival time is from 4pm.
The estate opens at 4pm and closes at 9pm For details on festive events at Fonmon Castle, go HERE.
BRECON
BRECON SANTA SPECIAL
- Arrival at Pant Station: Enjoy festive refreshments in our café and browse for last-minute gifts in our well-stocked shop.
- All Aboard the Steam Train: Enjoy a magical 2-mile ride to Pontsticill Station.
- Meet Santa and His Elves: Be greeted by our festive elves and entertained by the amazing ‘Gizmo’ at Pontsticill Station.
- Santa’s Grotto: Visit Santa in his enchanting grotto where every child will receive a special gift.
- Complimentary Refreshments: Enjoy seasonal treats to enhance your festive experience.
Details:
- They cannot transport prams or pushchairs on the train, but they can be left safely at Pant station.
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Train Ride: 2 miles each way (not the full length of the line)
- Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on these services (service dogs accepted).
They have so many dates in the diary, with a variety of times, depending on the day you book. You can find Train Times: 10.30, 12.00, 3.00pm, 4.30pm
Prices per adult are £23 and Children £23 Infants under 2 £10 but no seat will be allocated for them.
What we can tell you is they are really popular and already some of the dates are fully booked.
BRIDGEND
SANTA’S GROTTO
Thanks to the lovely people at the Lions Club, Santa will be making an appearance at Carnegie House in Bridgend on the following dates…
- Saturday 23rd November
- Saturday 30th November
- Saturday 7th December
- Saturday 14th December
A visit to see Santa will cost £8.00 for which children receive a quality gift and their family can take their own photographs. These visits have been very popular in the past. On line bookings will incur a 10% booking fee but this will ensure your booking.
For details and tickets to see the Big Man, go HERE.
TREE OF LIGHT
During December they are holding a Tree of Light at St Mary’s Church where anyone can sponsor in memory of a loved one or a special cause at Christmas. The tree will be displayed inside the Church foyer.
The Christmas Tree is decorated with hundreds of white lights and is set up under the canopy of the church in early December. The dedication ceremony is on Monday 2nd December at 6pm.
The Tree of Light is a point of focus for people who want to remember a loved one or a special cause at Christmas. Individuals can dedicate a light on the Tree and the name of your loved one(s) or cause are recorded on a board kept alongside the tree for all to read. Throughout the Christmas period the board is updated constantly as new names are added. Forms and on-line donations will be accepted right up until Christmas Eve.
The Tree has enabled them to raise over £8,000 which has supported not only local causes such as Heronsbridge School but has also contributed substantially to a Lions International project (Campaign Sight First II) which has helped to prevent blindness in more than 24,000,000 people in developing countries.
The Tree of Light will be located at St Mary’s Church. The service will be made available on YouTube.
Click here for more info: HERE
For more details, go HERE.
CARDIFF
CHRISTMAS AT BUTE PARK
Wales’ biggest festive light trail is back and bigger than ever this winter – with a specially composed soundtrack and a UK premiere in cutting-edge lighting design as its grand finale.
CHRISTMAS AT BUTE PARK is putting an all-new layout, live music and an extra half a mile of illuminations in place to create a never-before seen experience for all those visiting this year, including a brand new immersive light spectacular.
Those buying tickets to Christmas at Bute park also have the option to visit during a number of different time slots to suit those on a budget. As always, the event is fully accessible to those with wheelchairs and prams, aiming to offer an inclusive celebration of Christmas for all the family.
For more information or to book tickets visit HERE.
Take a look at our feature for more….
CARDIFF CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
One of the highlights of our South Wales festive calendar last year was the CARDIFF CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL, in a beautiful Spiegeltent. The shows we’re spectacular and delighted thousands of people, both young and old, during the run up to Christmas.
Produced by Cardiff-based live events company LIVE UNDER THE STARS, the Festival really does have something for everyone, of all ages. The shows will be performed in the ornate and intimate 550-seat Fortuna Spiegel Theatre, which is something really special in itself. This year, the setting is in the beautiful surroundings of Sophia Gardens and promises to transport us to a nostalgic and magical world.
The producers have given us more details on what we can expect this year, and I can tell you, Santa has lined up some real festive treats.
Best thing to do, is head over to their site below for all the very latest information on each of the show with links to tickets.
CARDIFF CASTLE
Christmas at the Castle is always an exciting time and this year will certainly be no exception. With Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland Ice Rink and an extended Ice Walk taking over the Public Square and the rumoured return of Santa to the Castle, there is plenty to look forward to!
Cardiff Castle will be open to paying visitors all through the festive period, during our winter opening hours. The only exceptions will be on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, when the Castle is closed.
From Thursday 14th November to Tuesday 5th January 2025, the Public Square will be open daily, with extended opening hours to coincide with Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland skating times. Both Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland and the Public Square will be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Also Cardiff Castle will be lovingly decorated in Victorian-style Christmas decor, adding an extra festive feel to your visit.
VISIT SANTA AT THE CASTLE
Father Christmas himself will once again find time in his hectic schedule to spend time at Cardiff Castle. A festive treat for the whole family, your group can enjoy a private tour of the beautifully decorated apartments and learn about Victorian Christmas traditions. Afterwards, meet Santa in the Castle’s Drawing Room and receive a gift, followed by some seasonal treats served in the Library. Don’t forget to stop by the Castle’s gift shop, where you will get a discount if you present your ticket.
| YOUR TICKET INCLUDES: |
- A private tour of the Castle Apartments where a costumed guide will lead your group and tell you all about a Victorian Christmas.
- A festive themed treasure hunt around the rooms.
- A private meeting with Santa in the Drawing Room, including a choice of gift.
- Complimentary mulled wine or soft drink and biscuits in the Library.
- A 10% discount* in the Castle’s Christmas Gift Shop.
| TICKET PRICES: |
- Private Tour £80 (to include up to 2 Adults and 2 Children)
- Additional Child £18 (Maximum 6 additional)
- Additional Adult £12 (Maximum 4 additional)
To provide the best value, they are allowing groups to book additional tickets for family and close friends. This means each session can have a strict maximum of 6 Adults & 8 Children.
Each child will have a meeting with Santa and will be able to choose their gift from a selection of unwrapped toys.
You can get more details HERE.
CARDIFF CHRISTMAS MARKET
The Cardiff Christmas Market is back on the pedestrian streets of St John Street, Working Street, Trinity Street and the Hayes – the main shopping pedestrian areas in Cardiff City Centre, with yet another exciting and eclectic mix. There are both new and returning exhibitors as their original, hand made products are the essence of what makes the market so different and special every year.
This well established Christmas Market sited in the heart of Cardiff City Centre has been organised and successfully for almost 30 years. It is a unique visitor attraction and offers an alternative shopping experience as you are buying original work directly from the makers themselves. Each year they have an extensive rolling programme of over 200 individual businesses selling a wide variety of diverse arts and crafts interspersed with seasonal food and drink.
CARDIFF CHRISTMAS MARKET runs until Monday 23rd December. The trading hours will be: Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm and Sunday 10am to 5pm. If you’re in town, especially in the evening, it’s always worth a visit. To find out more, go here. MARKET
WINTER WONDERLAND
With an ice rink, seasonal activities, bars and food stalls, all against the backdrop of the iconic civic centre and spectacular lights you really don’t want to miss a visit (or two) to the WINTER WONDERLAND.
Split once again across two locations in the heart of the city centre, visitors will now be able to experience Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland at both Cardiff Castle and City Hall Lawn.
It’s not just about the skating! Cardiff’s WINTER WONDERLAND has a funfair including a wide range of games and rides, including familiar favourite, the Big Wheel. The Sur La Piste bar has two floors and is the perfect place to catch up with friends and family over a mulled wine – or just sit back and relax on the sofas while enjoying a hot chocolate. The authentic wooden chalet is guaranteed to get everyone in the festive mood.
Family Funfair Attractions
Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland just isn’t complete without its famous family funfair. As usual, you can enjoy the best view of the city from the Giant Wheel plus, there will be a great range of other attractions that are suitable for all ages and nightly entertainment.
Sur la Piste, Ski Lodge Bar
The ever popular two-story ski lodge, Sur la Piste, will be returning and this year it’s coming with a brand new, outdoor roof terrace.
The Ice Bar!
Chill out with your mates and enjoy a drink at the city’s coolest hotspot, the exciting new Ice Bar experience at Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland! This is an Instagrammers’ heaven with sub-zero temperatures and yes, everything is made out of ice. To visit the Ice Bar, make sure you pre-book a timed slot.
Festive Food & Drink
Sit back and enjoy your favourite sweet and savoury treats in the Alpine Village’s covered seating areas.
It’s free to enter the WINTER WONDERLAND, but there is a charge for additional activities. To avoid disappointment it’s advised that you book ice skating tickets in advance at WONDERLAND It runs to 5th January 2025.
Cardiff’s famous and much loved Winter Wonderland. Split once again across two locations in the heart of the city centre, visitors will now be able to experience Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland at both Cardiff Castle and City Hall Lawn.
AT CARDIFF CASTLE
The Ice Walk
This year, Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland Ice Rink and Ice Walk will be set within the beautiful grounds of Cardiff Castle against the backdrop of the Norman Keep. The undercover 40m x 15m ice rink, with the 150m Ice Walk, is suitable for all ages and abilities. Accessible sessions are available every Wednesday afternoon between 1:30 – 2:30.
Skate Aids for Smaller Guests
The famous penguins will be making a come back and the colony has grown! There are now even more skate aids available for children who need assistance on the ice. Pre-booking is essential.
Festive Food & Drink
From hearty Yorkshire pudding wraps to toasted marshmallows, there will be plenty of options available within the Castle walls.
For more details on the Winter Wonderland events at the Castle – go HERE.
CHRISTMAS AT DYFFRYN GARDENS
Find yourself in a garden full of festive family fun, make your way to the Snowman Zone and decorate a “snow family”, play snowman hoopla and giant snowball kerplunk. Then immerse yourself in a classic Christmas tale in the Nutcracker Zone with a puppet theatre, nutcracker skittles, and the special sugarplum and lollipop game and a mini nutcracker marble run. Hop into Father Christmas’ sleigh or pose in front of the giant Christmas tree infront of Dyffryn House for a festive family picture before heading to the Gallery Cafe for Christmas crafts and to see all the Christmas stockings hanging from the ceiling and the cosy “fireplace” made completely from second-hand books!
Christmas events
On weekends in December they will be running children’s Christmas decoration workshops in the Gallery Cafe. There’s no need to pre-book and no charge (normal admission applies).
On Tuesday 5 and Wednesday 6 December, Rhian from Wild and Fabulous Flowers will be running her popular Christmas wreath-making workshops. Each workshop lasts three hours with a maximum of 15 participants in each session and ticket prices are £65 per person which includes entry to the gardens. Booking is essential.
They may still have a few more Christmassy tricks up their sleeve so keep checking back here for updates to make sure you don’t miss any Christmas event announcements.
Christmas 2024 at Dyffryn Gardens is going to be a cosy, fun, family-friendly affair. From young to old, there will be plenty to delight every member of the family. Don’t forget to share all your photos with us on their social media channels – they love seeing families enjoy our festivities at Dyffryn Gardens.
For more details on what’s going on at Dyffryn go HERE.
ST FAGANS CHRISTMAS
They have a range of event at St Fagans this Christmas, here’s just a few of them……
Festive Afternoon Tea
Indulge in the elegance of an Festive Afternoon Tea. Step back in time and embrace the Christmas spirit, with an Amgueddfa twist! Enjoy a selection of homemade festive finger sandwiches and a variety of savouries and cakes. Served alongside your choice of Welsh Brew tea or freshly brewed coffee.
All dietary requirements can be catered for with at least 72 hours notice. Please email: [email protected]
Cheers! Add bubbles to your afternoon tea for £9 per person.
They have a variety of Afternoon Tea dates. More details – HERE.
South Wales Makers Market at St Fagans
Browse our Christmas Market selling handmade gifts and crafts. The perfect place to find a festive gift or treat.
South Wales Makers’ Market showcases some exceptional local Welsh crafting talent. Stalls are varied and can change each day, featuring crafts such as pottery, handmade body products, jewellery and textiles.
The markets are on the 23rd and 24th November between 10am and 5pm – admission is free. For more details, go HERE.
Father Christmas and Friends
Father Christmas and his Elves will be visiting St Fagans Museum once again this year, and you’re invited to a very special event in our festive setting at Llys Llywelyn, the Museum’s impressive reconstruction of a 13th century Princes Court. So make sure you book a place for your little ones to come and join the fun.
Each child will:
- Meet Father Christmas – he’ll meet each child individually and they’ll receive a gift. There will be an opportunity to have your photograph taken with Father Christmas during this meet & greet.
- Participate in an interactive storytime session with Father Christmas and the Elves.
- Get creative in a Craft workshop with the Elves – each child will make their own special decoration to take home.
The dates are the 2–3, 9–10 & 16–17 December between 10am-6pm. Within each of those slots you can choose a Welsh or English session. The cost is £14. Fo more information, go HERE.
Carols in the Chapel
There’s nothing like a bit of carol singing to get you in the mood for the festive season.
Join everyone in the Museum’s 18th century Pen-rhiw Chapel for St Fagans’ favourite sing-a-long. There’ll be lots of traditional tunes and a few more contemporary Christmas classics.
30 November. 1, 7–8, 14–15 & 21–22 December 2024, 11am | 1pm | 3pm Again there’s a choice between English and Welsh session. Full details HERE.
For a full list of Christmas events at St Fagans, go HERE.
SANTA AT THE PRINCIPALITY STADIUM
This is the perfect gift for any Rugby fan who also love a bit of festive cheer. The Principality Stadium opens its gates for something really special for those who want a chance to see the magic behind the stadium, with some festive cheer thrown in for good measure.
SANTA AT THE STADIUM returns for 2024! Experience the magic of Christmas in one of the most unique settings in the UK from 25th November.
The tour once again returns to Principality Stadium’s historic Home Changing Room. A place where heroes gather has once more been transformed into Santa’s grotto. Visitors will follow in the footsteps of rugby legends as Santa and his team of busy helpers make Principality Stadium home for winter.
The SANTA EXPERIENCE runs through to Christmas Eve, Tuesday 24th December. Tickets £12 per adult, and £15 for U16s which includes a gift from Santa. Booking is online HERE.
CARMARTHEN
CHEPSTOW
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Chepstow Choral Society present a selection of festive music and readings at Chepstow School Arts Hall on the 11th December at 7pm.
Chepstow Choral Society was formed in 1979, and has been performing live music in the town regularly ever since. Currently directed by Graham Bull, Head of Performing Arts at a leading Gloucestershire school, it has about 65 members in total, of all ages & abilities.
Tickets are £10 per adult, U18s and students free, includes light refreshments.
Tickets available from HERE Chepstow Bookshop, or on the door.
CRICKHOWELL
EBBW VALE
MERTHYR TYDFIL
WINTER FEST AT TRAGO
Trago’s Winter Fest, a magical celebration of the season! Make unforgettable memories in Santa’s Grotto, where every child receives a free toy. Plus, thrill-seekers will love Funderland, featuring exciting rides that promise fun and laughter for the whole family!
Prices for rides From £2.50
OPENING TIMES
Monday & Tuesday – CLOSED
Wednesday – 3pm – 6pm
Thursday- 3pm – 8pm
Friday – 3pm – 6pm
Saturday – 10am – 6pm
Sunday – 10am – 4pm
RIDES
Funhouse • Mirror Maze • Train Ride • Bungee Trampolines
Cups & Saucers Monster Trucks • Bumper Carz
Hook A Duck Hoopla
FOOD
Bratwurst Sausages • Currywurst Sausages Schnitzel’s • Beef Burgers
Freshly Cooked Donuts • Candy Floss • Speciality Coffees & Hot Chocolate
SANTA’S GROTTO
TICKETS £4.50*
Includes a toy from Santa
*All children must be accompanied by an adult
Opening times:
Monday & Tuesday CLOSED
Wednesday – 2pm – 6pm
Thursday – 2pm – 8pm
Friday – 2pm – 6pm
Saturday – 11am – 2pm & 2:30pm – 6pm
Sunday – 11am – 2pm & 2:30pm – 4pm
The Winter Fest runs from Saturday 23rd November through to Sunday 22nd December, all the details you need HERE.
NEATH
LUMINATE WALES
This is definitely one of those, wrap up warm, grab the family, pack your camera and get out and have an amazing time events.
Following a sell-out debut year in 2019 and once again last year, LUMINATE WALES returns to Margam Country Park and Castle this Winter. A spectacular, illuminated trail, full of wonder and intrigue, to delight and enthral your senses.
The spectacular, illuminated trail, full of wonder and intrigue, to delight and enthral your senses.
As darkness descends, join us on our enchanting journey, as we weave a captivating light trail through the stunning, historic gardens of Margam Country Park and Castle. Immerse yourself in our mesmerising mile long walk, with stunning lighting installations and fabulous interactive elements for the kids (and big kids!) to play with.
They will have tasty treats and hot mulled wine available near the start of the trail, and then marshmallows for toasting on our fire pits and hot food caterers in the cafe courtyard halfway around.
The trail is open nightly until 31st December (closed Christmas Day). Tickets must be pre-booked, online in advance.
The trail starts just off the car park, near the Orangery where you will follow the route through the Gardens, ascending up to the Castle and the Castle Courtyard and Cafe, pass in front of the Castle and descend back down, finishing back at the Orangery. The trail is approx one mile long.
Warm up by the fire pit, where you can toast marshmallows (purchase your marshmallows on site or bring your own marshmallows and skewers) and indulge in some of the hot food and snacks available to purchase from the Courtyard cafe (approx 3/4’s of the way around the walk, closes at approx 9pm), and small drinks and mulled wine huts along the route.
The trial starts right from the car park, there are no shops/food drink in this area, only toilets so please only arrive at the time of your booked slot.
For more details, and to book tickets, go HERE.
NEWPORT
CHRISTMAS AT TREDEGAR HOUSE
They have so much going on at Tredegar House over the festive period, there is simply too much to mention. So, we’ll go through the highlights and point you in the direction for more details.
Christmas can be a busy time for everyone so why not them us for a quieter get-away to experience the sparkle of Christmas with some festive piano serenades and yuletide spirit.
House and Garden open 6 to 9 December, 11am – 4pm
Late night opening 13 to 23 December, 12pm – 8pm
Parkland and tea-room open daily. Closed 24, 25 and 26 December.
Winter Walks
Wrap up warm and take a stroll through Tredegar’s frosty grounds. Be careful not to slip, take in the surroundings of the formal gardens and immerse yourself in the long past festive celebrations enjoyed by the Morgan family through the centuries.
In the parkland, the lake often freezes at this time of year and on a frosty day the paths glisten making the garden and park a magical wintery wonderland to explore.
Family Festive Weekends
Saturday 14, Sunday 15, Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 December are lively and busy festive weekends for families to get involved with the spirit of Christmas. Join in with Christmas singalongs, festive choirs and look out for two very special guests – Ebenezer Scrooge and Father Christmas, who will be wandering throughout the gardens and House.
Late Night Christmas Openings
On 13 – 23 December, we are open until 8pm so everyone will have a chance to enjoy a magical Christmas at Tredegar House. The Brewhouse and the Volunteer Bookshop will also be open on our late nights until 8pm, so come along and experience Christmas cheer after hours.
Christmas at TREDEGAR HOUSE is always special, and a lovely place to visit anytime. To see everything they have on offer, go here – TREDEGAR.
CHRISTMAS AT THE CELTIC MANOR RESORT
Even if you only go for a walk through and a drink at the CELTIC MANOR RESORT you will feel incredibly festive when you leave, they always do Christmas very well and this year is no exception. To get you in the mood, take a look at the video below.
It’s difficult to go through everything, but here’s a few highlights……..
SANTA’S TEA PARTY 30th NOVEMBER – 24th DECEMBER
Join Santa for a magical festive experience, where grown-ups and children alike will be enchanted into a whimsical wonderland, as they step into our captivating Caernarfon Suite, to meet the main man himself – Santa Claus!
A magical experience for all the family. Get in the Christmas spirit with the festive Afternoon Tea, in magical surroundings, packed with treats and festive cheer & a chance to meet the man himself – make this Christmas one to remember.
During this special occasion, children will receive:
- Afternoon tea with sweet and savoury treats
- A surprise gift from Santa
- The chance to share their wish list with the best gifter in the world
PRICES
30th November
Tea times: 12pm
£34 adults, £24 children
1st December – SOLD OUT
Tea times: 12pm & 1pm
£34 adults, £24 children
7th December – SOLD OUT
Tea times: 11:30am, 12:30pm & 1:30pm
£38 adults, £28 children
8th December – SOLD OUT
14th December – SOLD OUT
Tea times: 11:30am, 12:30pm & 1:30pm
£38 adults, £28 children
15th December – SOLD OUT
18th December
Tea times: 4pm, 5pm & 6pm
£34 adults, £24 children
19th December
Tea times: 4pm, 5pm & 6pm
£34 adults, £24 children
21st December
Tea times: 11:30am, 12:30pm & 1:30pm
£46 adults, £36 children
22nd December– SOLD OUT
£48 adults, £38 children
23rd December
Tea times:12pm, 1pm, 3pm & 4pm
£48 adults, £38 children
24th December
Tea times: 12pm, 1pm & 2pm
£48 adults, £38 children
For more details on the Tea Party go HERE.
DRINKS AT THE DOME
The Celtic Manor Resort are bringing us a magical winter wonderland at its festive dining pop up, DRINKS AT THE DOME.
The instagrammable igloos overlook the treetops, offering an intimate and unique dining experience to celebrate with our nearest and dearest throughout the festive season.
Dining under the stars, we get to enjoy a night to remember whatever the weather, staying toasty and warm in the heated dome, while sharing delicious grazing boards and decadent desserts such as chocolate fondue and churros.
Enjoy live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights, with the option of an individual speaker in your dome if you want to bring your own playlist to the festivities.
The domes open from 22nd November through to 5th January.
S K A T E AT ICC WALES
Get your S K A T E on this Christmas and feel festive with ICC Wales. The indoor ice rink is the perfect activity for all the family.
Glide across the smooth synthetic ice and take in the sights and sounds of Christmas. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or beginner, this is an experience you won’t want to miss!
After working up an appetite, eat, drink and be merry at our festive food and drink stalls. From next-level street food to a festive tipple or two, we’ve got something for everyone to create those magical memories this Christmas. Looking for the perfect gift? Look no further than our Christmas gift stalls. With a wide variety of unique and festive items, you are sure to find something for everyone on your list.
Glice (synthetic ice)
Traditional ice skating with a twist, Glice is much kinder to the environment. Looks like ice, feels like ice, but isn’t ice. At ICC Wales, sustainability is at the heart of our venue. Therefore, we are proud to be bringing you the first ever eco-friendly Glice rink to South Wales. 0% additional emissions, 100% fun.
Tickets £12
Skating aid from £4
S K A T E runs from the 14th Dec through to 4th January next year. For more details, go HERE.
ELF THE MUSICAL
See Elf the hit movie live on stage with this spectacular Christmas musical. The story is magically recreated with catchy music, exciting sets, punchy jokes and a heartwarming tale the whole family will love!
Buddy, a young orphan, crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts one Christmas Eve and is transported to the North Pole. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn’t fit in with Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father! Faced with the harsh realities that his father is on the naughty list and his new family doesn’t even believe in Santa, Buddy is determined to win over his new family and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.
Audiences should prepare to release their inner elf. After all, the best way to spread Christmas Cheer is singing loud for all to hear!
Age Guidance 4+ years ELF THE MUSICAL runs from runs from the 14th December through to 4th January next year. For more details, go HERE.
PEMBREY
Pembrey Country Park & Beach is always a hive of activities throughout the year and this festive season is no different.
Christmas Wreath Making, Mulled Wine & Mince Pies
Create your very own beautiful Christmas wreath surrounded by aromas of pines and evergreen. All natural materials provided and included in the price along with a glass of mulled wine & mince pie. (Sold Out)
Breakfast with Father Christmas
Come along and join Father Christmas for breakfast at Yr Orsaf while he takes some time out from his busy workload getting all the presents made for all the little children for his deliveries on Christmas Day.
Enjoy a lovely cooked breakfast, if you have been good this year Father Christmas will pop in and if you have been really good, he might just have an early Christmas present for the little children.
Bookings are for children and adults – they cannot accept non-booked guest inside sorry
£12.95 per person
Each child received a gift from Father Christmas
Please advise of any dietary requirements in comments on booking page
Dates: 14, 15, 21, 22 & 24 December at 9am
Limited availability with all details HERE.
Christmas Light Trail
The Christmas Light Trail is making a grand return, and it’s even BIGGER & BETTER this year with the Christmas Market!
Best of all, it’s absolutely FREE to attend (Event parking fee applies), so gather your loved ones and join them for a magical experience at the mesmerising woodlands of Pembrey and get ready for the incredible surprise of meeting Father Christmas in his cosy woodland cabin! (booking and fee applies for Father Christmas visit)
Be sure to bring your festive spirit and a camera!
Well behaved dogs on leads welcome
Dates: 5th – 22nd December
Time: 5pm – 8pm
Father Christmas visits – £9 per child – Pre-booking required. There might be availability on the day but not guaranteed, queues possible. Pre-book on booking tab on right side bar. Non refundable
If you are hoping to visit Father Christmas on the day you must pay at Ski Centre before starting the light trail (availability not guaranteed)
* Christmas light trail may be cancelled at short notice due to adverse weather conditions. Check social media for updates
Event Parking fees apply. Free parking for all Parking Permit Holders. You can pay for parking on the day at any of the pay machines in the park. Please note, you cannot pay at the barrier. You can also pre-pay before you arrive online (Booking tab in side bar)
Details can be had HERE.
Toboggan by Night 5th – 22 December
Join in at the Ski & Activity Centre to ride the Toboggans around the magical Christmas light
Full details on all those events HERE.
PONTARDAWE
PONTYPOOL
PONTYPRIDD
CHRISTMAS CRACKER
The CHRISTMAS CRACKER comes to town on Friday 22nd November from 4:30 to 7:30pm. This event is always a busy and popular one.
Organised by Pontypridd Town Council in partnership with Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, the event will feature children’s fairground rides, children’s entertainers, market stalls and live music with radio station GTFM.
Local school children from Ysgol Bro Taf and Ysgol Awel Taf along with Pontypridd Community Choir will lead a Lantern Parade at 6pm through the town centre before the winners of Pontypridd Town Council’s schools Christmas card competition will switch on the Christmas lights at the main stage on Taff Street at 6.30pm.
Ahead of the lights switch-on event, children’s Christmas lantern making workshops are taking place in Pontypridd Museum on Saturday, November 16 from 12pm – 2pm. All workshop participants are invited to join the lantern parade on switch-on day.
The Christmas cheer continues, with further events planned by Pontypridd Town Council throughout the festive season.
A wreath-making workshop is taking place at Pontypridd Museum on Friday, November 15 from 6pm – 8pm. The workshop is £25 and includes all wreath-making materials and two drinks.
Pontypridd Museum will be home to Santa’s Grotto in the run-up to Christmas, with the Grotto open on Saturday, November 30, Saturday, December 7 and Saturday, December 14 from 11am – 3pm. Entry to the grotto is free, with donations to the Mayor’s charity welcomed.
Read our feature for more – HERE.
RAGLAN
RHONDDA
SANTA’S TOY MINE
Santa and his amazing Toy Mine are returning to A Welsh Coal Mining Experience at Rhondda Heritage Park for 2024.
The ever-popular event takes place from November 23rd to December 23rd, allowing visitors the chance to enjoy a festive tour and experience and meet the man in red himself!
As well as a magical tour filled with Christmas surprises, the event will also include themed activities, including write a letter to Santa, that will take place in small log huts scattered throughout the site.
A Christmas photo and gift shop will be open so you can choose the perfect gift or treat and the on-site Chocolate House and Craft of Hearts will also be offering workshops and sessions where you can make your own chocolate treat or get creative! (Book direct and separately with them).
Mulled wine will be sold on site and Caffe Bracchi will be open, serving a range of hot and cold drinks, meals and snacks – plus the odd mince pie or two!
Santa’s Toy Mine prices range from £5.00 to £12.50, but we need to tell you that it sells out really fast.
For more details and to book, go HERE
SWANSEA
WATERFRONT WINTERLAND
A Swansea Christmas just wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Waterfront Winterland.
They’re back for 2023 – bigger and better than ever before! From 15th November until 4th January 2025, you can head along for the ultimate winter experience. You’ll be pleased to hear the festive favourites of the ice rink, fun fair attractions, and the Alpine Village food and drink area are making a return.
Ice Skating returns to Waterfront Winterland this year, with the ever popular covered rink now being accompanied by a magical Ice Walk which meanders through the trees – and skaters will have access to both during their skating sessions!
Opening Hours
15th November – 17:00-22:00
16th, 17th November – 11:00-22:00
18th – 22nd November – 13:00-22:00
23rd, 24th November – 11:00-22:00
25th -29th November – 13:00-22:00
30th Nov, 1st December – 11:00-22:00
2nd – 6th December – 13:00-22:00
7th, 8th December -11:00-22:00
9th – 12th December – 13:00-22:00
13th, 14th, 15th December – 11:00-22:00
16th – 18th December – 13:00-22:00
19th – 22nd December – 11:00-22:00
23rd, 24th December – 11:00-22:00
25th December – Closed
26th December – Closed
27th-31st December – 11:00-22:00
1st January – 13:00-22:00
2nd – 4th January – 11:00-22:00
You can get more details on the WATERFRONT WINTERLAND right HERE.
SANTA’S GROTTO AT DAN-Yr-OGOF
Just 20 minutes from the M4, (junction 45), there is a Welsh mountain, with ancient caves, whose entrances are guarded by gigantic, but very friendly dinosaurs! But deep inside this mountain lie Wales’ only natural Christmas grottos… Fantastic!
The sights and sounds you will experience on our journey are not of this world! Vast colourful, hanging cave formations have all been transformed by the truly stunning Christmas decorations put up by Santa’s elves.
You’ll see Santa’s ever-faithful elves helping nearby and even get a chance to speak to Santa, and take pictures with him.
The Santa visits start at 10.15am and run throughout the day until 3.15pm – please check the online booking page for available times to see Santa.
If you book an afternoon visit, you are welcome to come along earlier to see the other attractions – but REMEMBER, you MUST be ready to see Santa at the time you have booked. The Coffee Shop will be open from 9.30am, the Rock and Dino Shop opens at 10.00am, and the Shire Horse Centre and Farm will be open from 11.00am. The attractions start to close from 3.00pm.
In the meantime, you can head to their site for more information and to book, go here. SHOWCAVES
TALBOT GREEN
TREORCHY
USK
20 THINGS TO DO ON CHRISTMAS EVE
- Spend Time With Loved Ones
- Sing Christmas Carols
- Go For a Walk To Look at Christmas Lights
- Close The Curtains and Turn On The Christmas Lights
- Take Pictures and Post Them
- Open ONE Pressie
- Make a Special Meal
- Dress Up Like It’s a Special Evening (which it is)
- Get Snuggled Up On The Sofa
- Watch A Festive Movie
- Follow Santa – There are Apps Which Let You Track His Progress
- TV Off, Christmas Music On
- Leave a Mince Pie For Santa & Carrot For Rudolph
- Drop In On The Neighbours
- Bake. Whatever You Make, It’s A Great Time to Get in the Kitchen With the Kids
- Go To Church – If That’s What You Do, Plan It Into Your Evening
- Make A Hot Chocolate With All The Extras. It’s Christmas After All.
- Build A Snowman (If We Have Any Snow That Is)
- Prepare What You Can For Christmas Dinner
- Go To Bed Early
ALTERNATIVE CHRISTMAS DAY
Go For a Dip In The Sea
On Christmas Day, all across South Wales and indeed up and down the country, people are putting on their Santa hats, maybe fancy dress, or unbelievably, a swimming costume. They then race into the freezing sea for fun and charity. Like the lovely folk in Tenby.
Get Out On Your Bike
If you get a bike off Santa, or maybe you have one collecting dust in the shed, Christmas Day (weather permitting) is the perfect time to take your two-wheeler out on the streets.
Go To A Christmas Service or Concert
If you’ve had enough of the TV and kitchen, then one of the many services and Christmas concerts are a really good thing to do. It’s sociable and incredibly festive. And really no one minds if you can’t sing, just join in.
Help Others
There are so many charities in need volunteers all year round, but especially at Christmas. If you have a few hours free and want to do something different and very good, why not offer to lend a hand. It could even be dropping in to a neighbour who is alone on the day.
Tour South Wales
I know what you’re thinking, how ridiculous. Actually, there is no better day to tour this amazing region of ours. Very few cars, relatively empty streets, what’s not to enjoy? Our parks, beaches and countryside are all yours (almost).
Borrow a Dog
If you don’t have your own, trust us, a friend will gladly lend you theirs. While they veg-out, you can lead-up their pet and get out for a long walk in the fresh air. The dog will love you for it and you’ll probably love yourself enough to have another mince pie.
Pamper Yourself
This is precisely what it says on the tin. If you don’t want to leave the house why not flip things on their head and instead of pigging out in front of the TV, pamper yourself. Nice bath, music, candles, the whole works. All day Christmas PJ’s are so last year.
A LETTER FROM YOU KNOW WHO
We don’t know if these will help but we’ve added them for you to do as you please. We’re sure you know what we mean………
You can download them to your device for editing on the link below…..
MAKE A SNOW GLOBE
The shimmering magic of snowfall is always transfixing, whether it’s outside your window or inside this classic toy. Homemade globes let you create a wintry scene straight out of your own imagination. Thanks to Martha Stewart, here’s a simple way that you and the kids can make your own globes. They are really easy too. HERE.
FREE CHRISTMAS ACTIVITY PACK
FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS SONGS
CHRISTMAS TOP TEN
Christmas wouldn’t be the same without a good old festive tune. Noddy Holder has made a pension out of it for goodness sake. We walk into a shop and the same old favourites will be ringing out, but no matter what you think, I can guarantee you’ll be singing along to every one of them/
Here at SOUTH WALES LIFE we’ve been around the music game for a lot of years, and I mean a lot. While we would never disagree with any favourite festive song list, we think ours are real classics…….
- LONELY THIS CHRISTMAS – MUD
- MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE – SHAKIN’ STEVENS (Had To Really)
- DRIVING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS – CHRIS REA
- STOP THE CAVALRY – JONA LEWIE
- SANTA CLAUS IS COMIN’ TO TOWN – BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN
- MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYBODY – SLADE
- I WISH IT COULD BE CHRISTMAS EVERYDAY – ROY WOOD & WIZZARD
- STEP INTO CHRISTMAS – ELTON JOHN
And to finish off, here are 20 Christmas Favourites to enjoy. Just press play and away you go……..
CHRISTMAS RECIPES
COMING SOON………
