Christmas shopping, festive windows, presents, parties and plenty of food. Delving into newspaper archives reveals that while Cardiff has changed considerably, the excitement of Christmas in the town feels remarkably familiar.

^ Cardiff Times, 30 December 1971 – In 1871, a witty Cardiff columnist celebrated Christmas excess, enormous feasts and festive goodwill, gently mocking the season’s fleeting merriment.

^ Glamorgan Advertiser, 2 January 1931 – This reader-submitted poem titled Wrth Fwrdd Nadolig (At the Christmas Table) is a reflection on generosity, compassion and remembering those less fortunate. In Welsh-speaking communities during the 19th and early-20th centuries, Welsh-language poetry had a strong tradition of public participation. Newspapers frequently published verses submitted by readers, often under bardic names.

^ Western Mail, 21 December 1900 – In 1900, Cardiff’s shops embraced Christmas with festive displays, offering everything from fashionable clothing to traditional treats.

The shops have changed. The presents have changed. The Christmas rush, perhaps, hasn’t.

Content provided by The British Library Board, all rights reserved. With thanks to the British Newspaper Archive.