Wales at Christmas: 6 Festive Events to Attend in 2021
Fruity mince pies, a cappella carols and frosty countryside walks – nothing is more magical than Wales at Christmas! Unsurprisingly, thanks to last year’s lockdowns, more people than ever are filling their calendars with fun family activities this festive season. Perhaps, you’d like to browse Cardiff’s glittering markets or take a reindeer safari in Mold? Whatever your preference, there’s bound to be an exciting adventure nearby to kick-start the celebrations.
Read on as we highlight six Christmas events in Wales to attend in 2021. There’s also plenty of things to do for grouchy Grinches as well – why not swap hymns for hiking or explore the country’s must-see attractions instead?
1. Cardiff Christmas Market
Cardiff Christmas Market takes place across St John Street, Working Street, Trinity Street and the Hayes, between Thursday 11th November 2021 and Thursday 23rd December 2021. As you stroll through the heart of the city, illuminated by overhead garlands and twinkling lights, there’s a treasure chest of stalls to browse, each showcasing unique handmade goodies.
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Arts and craft aficionados will be in their element as some of the region’s most accomplished makers promote their wares. Enjoy the intoxicating scents of dried fruit decorations, wreaths, oils and candles, or gush over one-of-a-kind jewellery featuring precious gemstones and ironwork. If you’re stuck for present ideas, a quick whizz around the stalls will give you some much-needed inspiration.
2. Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland
Head to City Hall Lawns and Cardiff Castle Grounds for Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland from 16th November 2021 to 3rd January 2022. Children and big kids are sure to adore City Hall’s pop-up funfair, complete with traditional rides like the big wheel. Meanwhile, parents can chill out at the iconic ice bar or enjoy a full schedule of live entertainment from the bandstand, including musicians, comedians and more.
A stone’s throw away at Castle Grounds, there’s an all-weather skating rink suitable for the whole family. If you fancy something more challenging, the 150m ice walk leaves the beaten track, allowing visitors to glide through the Norman Keep’s enchanting surroundings.
3. Waterfront Winterland, Swansea
Swansea’s Waterfront Winterland returns to the National Waterfront Museum between 12 November 2021 and 3 January 2022, bigger and better than ever. The city’s much-loved alpine village offers hours of delight with rides, ice skating and delicious festive fare. The hot Welsh cakes are especially moreish when paired with a warming glass of mulled wine! Plus, Santa’s grotto is back, offering a taste of the North Pole without leaving the Maritime Quarter.
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Most impressively, tourists can indulge in the area’s stunning landscape by travelling up the 33m observation wheel. What could be more romantic than treating your partner to panoramic views of Swansea Bay?
4. Tenby Boxing Day Swim
Above all else, Christmas is a time for giving back. The Tenby Boxing Day Swim invites fearless daredevils to plunge into brisk Atlantic waters to raise money for local, national and international charities. In 2019, a whopping 800 people participated, and numbers will likely rise as this year is the swim’s 50th birthday.
There’s an eclectic array of colourful costumes to keep the bystanders giggling, the bravest (or most foolish) choosing speedos or bikinis. Plus, there’s also a beach bonfire to stave off the post-swim chill.
5. Reindeer safari, Mold
Alongside trees and tinsel, it wouldn’t be Christmas without reindeer! For a festive experience with a twist, take a trip to Mold’s Reindeer Lodge between 27th November 2021 and 24th December 2021. As you scan the stunning countryside from the warmth of your car, you might spot Rudolph grazing lazily or Blitzen dashing through the snow. If you purchase a day ticket, it’s a fantastic opportunity to spot other rare wildlife like peregrine falcons and goshawks.
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By night, Reindeer Lodge sparkles with hundreds of fairy lights that enhance the beauty of the local woodlands. After traversing the Wonka-esque trail, finish with a drive-in theatre show featuring spellbinding special effects and dancing elves.
6. Christmas in Wales with the National Trust
The National Trust runs a wide selection of Christmas events in Wales to suit every personality. Leisure lovers might like a wintry stroll around Conwy’s Bodnant Gardens, whereas Newport’s Tredegar House is perfect for insatiable shopaholics. What’s more, in the many acres of picturesque parkland, there are educational trails and games to keep energetic children occupied. What more could you ask for?
Visit Wales for an unforgettable Christmas break in 2021. With so much to do, including markets and funfairs, you’ll leave with cherished memories that’ll last a lifetime. Explore more things to do and places to stay on our blog.
