Staying in Wales? We have a great selection of Welsh holiday properties, and this time of year is a great time to visit. There are Christmas celebrations, food markets and New Year's celebrations all over. Take a look at some of the best.
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Swansea Christmas Market
The city of Swansea comes alive in December with a whole array of Christmassy activities including a waterfront Winter Wonderland complete with an ice rink, Santa's grotto and funfair rides. The recognisable green and red wooden chalets return to Oxford Street as part of the Christmas market and you'll be able to try traditional delicious treats, grab some handmade Christmas gifts and browse the crafts to the sounds of carols.
Festivities are taking place throughout most of November and December up until 3rd January. The Christmas market is taking place from 25th November to 22nd December. Take a look online for dates, times and tickets > www.swanseachristmas.com
Ludlow Medieval Christmas Fayre
Image: Ashleigh Cadet
It may not be physically in Wales but, at just over the border it is worth a mention! Every year the Ludlow Christmas celebrations take the area by storm. Ludlow is famous as a food capital and at Christmas it goes one step further, hosting a traditional market in the grounds of its medieval castle. This year's atmospheric market takes place on the 28th and 29th November and sees vendors and reenactors don costumes and host a great selection of stalls and entertainment for the whole family. This is a large market with over 100 stalls that will be selling traditional crafts and gifts, fruit wines and artisan cheeses, decorations and delicacies among much, much more. There will also be many medieval-themed events and entertainment, storytelling, music and falconry. Something for the whole family! www.ludlowmedievalchristmas.co.uk
Cardiff winter wonderland 2024
With a market that runs from early in November all the way through to 23rd December, Cardiff promises a large amount of festive cheer with a rolling programme of over 190 exhibitors. Soak up all the sights, smells and tastes of Christmas as you browse the wooden chalets which are set up right in the heart of Cardiff's pedestrian zone, and pick up some Christmas gifts. www.cardiffswinterwonderland.com
Calennig
While we're spending Christmas in Cardiff, the New Year's Eve celebrations are also a sight to behold if you're looking for a fun way to wave in the new year. A brilliant display of fireworks takes place each year at Cardiff Civic Centre. Have a skate, listen to music then watch the display.
Cardiff Christmas light show
The festive light trail in Cardiff's historic Bute Park is the most popular outside of London, combining the spectacular illuminations with live music, delicious food and a charming Christmas village. Be dazzled by the amazing displays and creative vision of the trails, which is sure to get even the biggest humbugs into the Christmas spirit. Buy tickets here
Pembroke Castle Christmas Market
Between the 27th and 29th November the stunning Pembroke Castle is host to more than 60 stalls, selling food, drink, gifts and goodies. Every year the castle hosts its Christmas market and will be illuminated in the evenings to display the beautiful architecture, parts of which date back to the 12th century. Children have the opportunity to meet Santa Claus and there will be live music too. www.pembroke-castle.co.uk
Tenby and Saundersfoot
Both these coastal towns have great fireworks displays to help you see the new year in. Tenby's take place in Tudor Square, right in the heart of the town and the atmosphere is one of bustling excitement. A lot of the pubs and bars are open too. If you'd prefer a more intimate, relaxed display then Saundersfoot's is really good and takes place in the harbour where all the colours are reflected back at you from the water.
Stay in Wales for yourself and take a look at all our stunning Welsh properties online.