The best Christmas events in Cardiff
There’s so much going on over Christmas you might not know where to start. We've found the must-do events to make your yuletide a truly merry occasion.
Until 5th Jan 2025
Cardiff Winter Wonderland
Cardiff Castle Grounds and City Hall Gardens
Cardiff Winter Wonderland transforms Cardiff Castle into a magical winter escape, featuring an open-air ice trail and an undercover ice rink. The enchanting ice trail weaves through the scenic castle grounds, offering a unique skating experience beneath the stars. For those who prefer to skate under shelter, the undercover ice rink provides a festive atmosphere, perfect for families and friends. Whether gliding through the crisp winter air or enjoying a cozy skate indoors, the ice experiences at Cardiff Castle are a must-visit highlight of the city's holiday season.
26 Nov 2024 - 25 Jan 2025
Hamilton
WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s multi award-winning cultural phenomenon Hamilton is touring the UK for the very first time, and is coming to Wales Millennium Centre for Christmas 2024.
Hamilton is the story of America's Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington's right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and helped shape the very foundations of the America we know today. The score blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B and Broadway - the story of America then, as told by America now.
22 - 27 Nov
A Christmas Carol
Sherman Theatre
Let us transport you to the streets of Victorian Cardiff this Christmas for a festive adventure unlike any other. Our laughter-stuffed, song-filled, tear-jerking, and utterly life-enhancing re-telling of A Christmas Carol, first seen in 2021, returns this Christmas by popular demand. A Christmas Carol promises exceptional festive entertainment for everyone aged 7+.
Until 21 Dec
Wales Millennium Centre Christmas Market
WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE
Join us on the campaign to shop small and indie this Christmas, as we host Christmas markets for the first time in our Glanfa area. Open on weekends through to the 21st December (check website for details).
Curated with some of the best indie makers and traders, from Christmas wreaths and decorations to jewellery, candles, skin care, artwork and ceramics, there will definitely be something for everyone.
12th to 31st December
The Snow Queen
CARDIFF CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
Be spirited away by this new musical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s fantastical family adventure. Join Gerda on a dangerous and whimsical quest to save her best friend Kai before he is trapped forever in the Snow Queen’s palace. Dare to enter a world where flowers sing, animals talk, and friendship triumphs over all!
Bring the whole family and immerse yourselves in the joy and wonder of “The Snow Queen” – an unforgettable theatrical experience performed in the magical and intimate Spiegeltent setting. A Christmas treat – not to be missed. Book your tickets now and make memories that will last a lifetime.
26 Nov
Luke Evans: In Conversation
NEW THEATRE CARDIFF
From humble beginnings in a quaint Welsh mining village to the dazzling lights of Hollywood, much-loved star, Luke Evans, takes us on a poignant and inspiring journey that spans from the heart of Wales to behind-the-scenes of the biggest films of the last decade.
This event will include an interview, a rare chance to put questions to Luke and an opportunity to purchase a copy of his book Boy from The Valleys: My Unexpected Journey.
3 – 31 December 2024
Nutcracker (The Alternative Cabaret)
WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE
Welcome to Le Crack – the dingiest cabaret club you can’t help but love.
Crawl under the walls and scurry inside for a soiree of seductive burlesque, daring aerial acts, gender-bending deviancy and a house band that will make you squeak with delight. Proudly hosted by your overlord of the underground, the voice of the vermin – The Rat King!
Venture inside if you dare. Come, put your toys down and join the weirdos in the Rat King’s lair...
30 Nov 2024 - 5 Jan 2025
The Cardiff Bay Reindeer Trail
CARDIFF BAY
Nine runaway reindeer have escaped in Cardiff Bay! Can you help Father Christmas find his sleigh-pulling squad this festive season?
A free bilingual activity that’s suitable for all the family, featuring eight willow-crafted reindeer scattered around Bay venues, including Mermaid Quay, The Red Dragon Centre and Senedd Cymru. There’s also a ninth digital reindeer, sponsored by Cardiff Harbour Authority, who’ll spring into life in Roald Dahl Plass via your smartphone.
Download a handy map from the website or pick up a paper version from participating attractions. Then, for a chance to win a stay and play break in the Bay for a family of four, collect a special letter from each reindeer, and unscramble all the letters to work out the festive word.
5 Dec
Mediaeval Baebes
Tabernacle Baptist Chapel
The unique, classical chart topping choir Mediaeval Baebes was conceptualised and formed in 1996 by musical director, composer and producer Katharine Blake. The group have released 10 studio albums, won an Ivor Novella Award for their performance on the BBC serialisation “The Virgin Queen” and received two Emmy nominations and a Royal Television Society award as the featured artist alongside composer Martin Phipps for the theme tune of ITV’s hit TV show “Victoria”.
6 – 21 Dec
All I Want For Christmas Is Musicals
WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE
Timeless classics and festive favourites will be given a stylish, stripped-back West End treatment this December, with an intimate Christmas concert starring leading musical theatre singers. From heart-warming, feel-good melodies to much-loved songs from the shows (and all the trimmings in between!), join us and have yourself a very musical Christmas at our cosy Cabaret theatre.
