Wales is the perfect place to get into the Christmas spirit this December. With organised Christmas events, some world-class shopping and festive feasts to be had, there’s plenty for the whole family to do to celebrate.
Avoid the traffic when travelling this Christmas on the train or bus with TfW. Sit back and relax when you buy your train tickets early with no admin fees when you come direct.
Christmas events North Wales
Here are some great Christmas events to visit in North Wales.
- Llandudno Christmas Extravaganza - 19 to 22 November 2026 - four days of food, drinks, live entertainment and fairground rides in Llandudno
- Portmeirion Christmas Fair - 4 to 6 December 2026 - a showcase of local produce, gifts and entertainment for that special festive feeling in the village of Portmeirion near Minffordd
- The Snowman and the Snowdog - 21 December - a unique showing of the feature film backed by beautiful live orchestral music at the William Aston Hall in Wrexham
- Christmas at Penrhyn Castle - 27 November to 21 December - experience the magic of Christmas in the beautifully decorated Penrhyn Castle with wreath-making, Christmas stories and more just outside Bangor
Christmas events South Wales
Here are some of our favourite Christmas events in South Wales:
- Christmas at Bute Park - 19 November to 23 December - the largest light trail in Wales with an incredible display plus festive food and drink near Cardiff’s Cathays station
- Santa’s Toy Mine at Rhondda Heritage Park Museum - 22 November to 24 December - perfect for families, go on an adventure to meet Santa deep in the mine close to the Trehafod station
- Swansea Christmas Parade - late November - a fantastic Christmas celebration with the annual lights switch-on, fireworks, live entertainment and more in Swansea
- Royal Welsh Winter Fair - 30 November to 1 December - one of the largest stock shows in Europe with Christmas shopping, food, drink and more in Llanelwedd near Builth Road
- Aladdin Christmas Pantomime - 6 December to 4 January - enjoy a festive panto featuring Joe Pasquale and Kev Johns at the Swansea Grand Theatre
Christmas days out around Wales
Here are some of the best things to do around Wales in December to embrace the festive spirit.
Christmas shopping Wales
If you’re looking to hit the shops ahead of the day, Wales has some phenomenal shopping spots. For the biggest collection of high street and independent shops, look no further than the capital, Cardiff.
For bargain hunters, there’s Bridgend’s McArthurGlen Designer Outlet. It is packed with shops offering great value for money. Another similar option is the Cwmbran Centre with over 100 shops and plenty of cafes and restaurants.
For some more unique gifts, you could visit Abergavenny or Hay-on-Wye. Both spots are renowned for their collection of independents and local shops.
Christmas markets in Wales
Wales is home to some amazing Christmas markets, packed with festive food and drink, incredible stalls with some fantastic Christmas gifts, music and more. Some of our favourites are the Cardiff Christmas market, Caerphilly Christmas market and the Portmeirion Christmas market.
For more information, read our guide to Christmas markets in Wales.
Festive food and drink
One of the most magical parts of Christmas is the festive food and drinks. Whether you’re heading out with friends and family for a pre-Christmas meal, looking for a Christmas party location or just fancy grabbing a meal while you’re already out, Wales has plenty of spots to choose from.
Some amazing spots include Porth Eirias in Colwyn Bay, Gwen in Machynlleth and The Bunch of Grapes in Pontypridd.
Discover more hidden gem restaurants in Wales for some great options for a Christmas meal out.
Plan your train journey with us for your Christmas day out in Wales for flexible tickets without booking fees.
