As the nights draw in and fairy lights begin to twinkle, it’s time to embrace the festive season in all its cosy, glittering glory. Across South Wales, there’s a host of events on. Whether it’s a classic pantomime, the neighbourhood advent calendar, or a brisk walk through a light trail, here’s our roundup of the top events to explore this Christmas and New Year.
Cardiff Winter Wonderland
13th November 2025 – 4th January 2026
Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland returns for 2025 with all the festive favourites. Glide across the open-air ice rink, cosy up in the Ice Bar, or take in the city lights from the Big Wheel. With alpine cabins serving seasonal treats and a cheerful buzz throughout the castle grounds, it’s the perfect way to kick off your Christmas countdown.
Penarth Christmas Light Switch-On
16th November
Join the community as Penarth officially welcomes the festive season with an evening of sparkle and celebration. Expect live music from local performers, the scent of mulled wine, and the joyful countdown to the moment the town’s lights come to life. It’s a heartwarming tradition that brings neighbours together to mark the start of the season.
Christmas at Bute Park
21st November – 31st December
Wales’ largest light trail returns with 15 areas of dazzling displays. A mile-long stroll through illuminated woodland magic.
Cowbridge Christmas Parade
30th November
A beloved highlight of the local calendar, the Cowbridge Christmas Parade brings the whole town to life with music, lights, and festive cheer. Expect a procession of floats, twinkling costumes, and performances from local school choirs that never fail to tug at the heartstrings. Keep an eye out for Lumi, the spectacular 10ft illuminated reindeer who’s become something of a local celebrity. A magical way to welcome the season.
Festive Films at Chapter Arts Centre
Throughout December
Settle in for a season of cinematic comfort at Chapter, where the festive film programme brings timeless classics and family favourites to the big screen. From the heartwarming magic of It’s a Wonderful Life to the mischievous cheer of Elf, there’s something for everyone. With cosy seating and a café perfect for post-film chats over hot chocolate.
Pantomimes and Shows
Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan are bursting with festive sparkle this season. New Theatre presents Sleeping Beauty (6th December 2025 – 4th January 2026) with Gethin Jones, Owain Wyn Evans and Mike Doyle, while Mary Poppins flies into Wales Millennium Centre (3rd December 2025 – 10 January 2026). Over in Sophia Garden, the Cardiff Christmas Festival brings Jack Frost, A Christmas Carol, and Festive Fantasy to the Spiegeltent. In Penarth, the Operatic and Dramatic Society presents Aladdin and his Magic Lamp at the Paget Rooms (4th – 7th December), promising plenty of laughs, magic and panto mischief. And over in the rural Vale, back by popular demand, Cowbridge Panto is set to return with a brand new magical Christmas adventure FREEZIN’ The Story of the Snow Queen! featuring the voices of Gareth Thomas, Ian H Watkins and Caryl Parry Jones (13th – 17th December).
New Year’s Eve Gala at Vale Resort
31st December
Ring in the New Year with a five-course gala dinner, live music, and classic soul tunes in a stunning setting. The resort also offers festive afternoon teas, wreath-making workshops, and cosy lodge dining throughout the season.
New Year’s Eve Studio 54 Disco at Cardiff Theatre Café
31st December
Cardiff Theatre Café brings the magic of Studio 54 to St Andrew’s URC Church for a fabulous disco party. This is your chance to boogie into 2026 with a midnight countdown and balloon drop.
Whether you’re wrapping up warm for a light trail or swapping mince pies with neighbours, there’s joy to be found in every corner. Embrace the sparkle, support local, and make this festive season one to remember.
