Cardiff Christmas Market 2026

When the Christmas lights come on and the scent of festive treats fills the streets, Cardiff takes on a whole new sparkle. From browsing handcrafted gifts and wandering through historic shopping arcades to ice skating beside Cardiff Castle, there are plenty of ways to get into the Christmas spirit.

Cardiff Christmas Market returns from November 12 to December 23, 2026, bringing independent makers, artists and producers into the heart of the city. Take your time browsing stalls filled with handmade jewellery, ceramics, textiles, artwork and one-of-a-kind gifts, with plenty of seasonal food and drink to enjoy along the way.

The market is open 10am to 6pm Monday to Saturday, with late-night opening until 7pm every Thursday in December, and 10am to 5pm on Sundays.

Christmas Attractions in Cardiff

Cardiff’s streets, parks and landmarks all join in the celebrations, so it’s easy to fill a day  or an entire festive weekend with things to see and do.

Cardiff Winter Wonderland returns from November 12, 2026, to January 3, 2027, with attractions at Cardiff Castle and City Hall Lawn. Lace up your skates for a turn around the undercover ice rink and Ice Walk at the Castle or have a go at the new Curling Experience for 2026. Over at City Hall Lawn, take a ride on the Big Wheel, enjoy the family fairground or warm up over festive food and drinks.

As evening falls, head to Christmas at Bute Park, running from November 19 to December 31, 2026. The mile-long trail transforms the park into an illuminated winter world, with dazzling light installations, music and festive surprises around every corner. Grab something tasty from the street-food traders or stop for a seasonal drink along the way.

Christmas also spills into Cardiff’s historic shopping streets and arcades. Festive lights brighten the city centre, while Cardiff’s beautiful Victorian and Edwardian arcades are perfect for finding independent shops, cosy cafés and those last few Christmas presents.

Hotels Near Cardiff Christmas Market

Make Clayton Hotel Cardiff your base for a festive break in the Welsh capital. Set on St Mary Street in the heart of the city centre, our hotel puts Cardiff Christmas Market, Christmas shopping and many of the things to do in Cardiff within easy reach. Cardiff Central Train Station is also just a short walk away, making getting here simple if you’re arriving by train.

After a day spent browsing Christmas stalls, skating at Winter Wonderland or admiring the lights at Bute Park, come back to a warm and comfortable place to unwind. Choose from Deluxe, Executive and family-friendly rooms, with free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.

Start the next morning with a Vitality Breakfast, with hot and cold favourites to choose from, or settle in for lunch, dinner or a festive drink at the Grill Bar & Restaurant, where you can enjoy panoramic views across the city.