It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Wales! As twinkling lights start to sparkle across the towns and cities, there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than by visiting one of the magical Christmas markets in South, Mid and West Wales.
From charming rural towns filled with handmade crafts and mulled wine, to bustling city squares packed with street food, music, and local artisans, Christmas markets in Wales offer a wonderful blend of festive cheer, local culture, and Welsh hospitality.
Whether you’re dreaming of a weekend getaway in South Wales or a countryside escape in Mid Wales, these markets are the perfect excuse for a winter break.
So grab your cosiest coat, wrap up warm, and let’s explore the most enchanting Christmas markets in Wales 2025…
When? Thursday 13 November to Tuesday 23 December 2025.
What to expect: The capital city truly sparkles at Christmas. Heading into their 31st year, the Cardiff Christmas Market will take place in pedestrianised streets around St John Street, Working Street, Trinity Street and Hills Street.
You’ll find more than 200 stalls selling handmade jewellery, ceramics, textiles, original artwork and seasonal food & drink.
And if you fancy a break from shopping and mulled wine, you might like our post on 24 Famous Landmarks in Wales to plan a scenic stop or two.
Top tip: Visit on a weekday morning or early afternoon to avoid big crowds, and keep an eye out for late-night shopping on Thursdays in December (some stalls stay open later).
Stay in a holiday cottage in Cardiff
When? Saturday 29 November 2025.
What to expect: Set in the historic town and in view of the impressive castle, this market delivers festive charm with over 100 food, craft and gift stalls.
Set in four of the borough’s town centres: Bargoed, Blackwood, Caerphilly and Ystrad Mynach, expect plenty of family entertainment, street theatre and funfair rides, making this Christmas market a truly magical event in South Wales.
Whilst at Caerphilly Christmas Market, why not head to the popular Caerphilly Artisan Market in the Twyn Community Centre, Crafty Legs’ Craft Fair & Market at the Cenotaph or Castle Court Craft & Food Market in Castle Court Shopping Centre. All these markets complement the Caerphilly Winter Fair and the town’s mixture of independent & high street stores.
Top tip: Use the town’s free park-and-ride to avoid the parking hassle and enjoy the day with the family.
Stay in a holiday cottage in Caerphilly
When? Friday 14 November 2025 – Sunday 5 January 2026.
What to expect: The Swansea Christmas Markets and Winterfront Wonderland returns to Museum Park with an alpine village vibe, ice rink, funfair rides and a huge Ferris wheel overlooking the marina. Browse over 100 festive stalls selling crafts, jewellery and warming street food; it’s one of the biggest and most family-friendly Christmas markets in Wales.
The Alpine Bar also offers sheltered, cosy seating and delicious deluxe hot chocolates and warming mulled wine, the perfect treat after all that shopping!
Top tip: Book your skating slot early – it’s one of the most popular winter activities in South Wales.
Stay in a holiday cottage in Swansea
When? Winter Weekend market: Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 November 2025; Christmas Fayre: Saturday 13 December 2025.
What to expect: In the charming town of Hay-on-Wye, this event ticks the boxes for independent gifts, artisan makers and wholesome vibes. Set in Memorial Square and around Hay Castle, it’s a standout mid-Wales highlight among Christmas markets in Wales.
Expect tasty street food, plenty of local produce, makers and even a vintage flea market. It’s a top choice for a cheerful bustle in one of the most characterful towns in Wales.
Top tip: Combine your visit with exploring bookshops and countryside walks, the town is perfect for families, couples and dog-owners.
Stay in a holiday cottage in Hay-on-Wye
When? Monday 24 November to Tuesday 25 November 2025.
What to expect: As one of the finest prime stock shows in Europe, the Royal Welsh Winter Fair in Builth Wells, is a true festive highlight. This unique event combines agricultural competitions with seasonal shopping, live displays and plenty of Christmas cheer.
The bustling Food Hall showcases the best Welsh producers, tempting visitors with artisan cheeses, chutneys and sweet treats, perfect for gifting or indulging on the spot.
Top tip: Make sure to check the timetable to see when the different animals shows are, it’s a real highlight and something you won’t find at any other Christmas market in Wales!
Stay in a holiday cottage in Builth Wells
When? Friday 28 – Sunday 30 November 2025
What to expect: Enjoy a truly magical experience at Pembroke Castle Christmas Market. Located in one of our 7 most spectacular castles in West Wales, this is no doubt one of the most unique Christmas markets in Wales.
This free event is held in the castle’s Outer Ward, where marquees line the grounds around the stunning Great Map of Wales.
Browse a wide variety of stalls selling handmade gifts, local crafts, festive decorations and delicious Welsh produce, all within the atmospheric medieval walls of this historic site. With lights twinkling against the ancient stone, it’s a perfect way to start the festive season.
Top tip: Head there on Friday evening when the market is open until 8pm. The castle looks spectacular illuminated after dark!
Stay in a holiday cottage in Pembroke
What to expect: Visit to discover an abundance of exhibitors, local food and entertainment set against the backdrop of Dinefwr, near Llandeilo in all its winter glory. Dinefwr Park is a gorgeous nature reserve, spanning over 800 acres, and is a must visit all year round, featuring in our guide to the best 9 Best Nature Reserves in Wales.
This much-loved event combines festive shopping with the historic beauty of the estate, making it one of the most magical Christmas markets in Wales. Alongside the excitement of the Christmas Fair, Newton House will be beautifully decorated for Christmas, adding a touch of Georgian grandeur to your festive day out.
Top tip: For an extra special festive experience, why not book a visit to Santa’s grotto down at Newton House? Each Sunday also includes a relaxed Additional Learning Needs session for a gentler pace.
Stay in a holiday cottage in Llandeilio
🎄 Wrap-Up & Stay with Coast & Country Holidays
As you can see, Wales is full of charming, festive opportunities this winter — whether you’re after lively city lights, traditional wooden stalls, artisan crafts or countryside tranquillity. These eight destinations go from big-city buzz right down to cosy rural breaks, making them perfect choices for your xmas markets Wales adventure.
When you’re planning your trip, remember: staying locally means you’ll get the most out of the market experience, fewer long drives, more time browsing the stalls, and more mulled wine!
If you’re searching for the perfect base, look no further than trusted holiday-let specialists like Coast & Country Holidays — we’ve got comfortable, well-placed properties across Mid and South Wales that fit families, couples, dog-owners (and more!). Book early, bring the festive spirit, and let Wales deliver your perfect Christmas market escape.
