Top 5 family-friendly Christmas events in Wales

1. Tower Grotto – Zip World Tower Colliery, Aberdare, South Wales, CF44 9UF

   If you're looking for a Christmas experience that makes you feel warm and cosy, Tower Grotto is a must-visit. Set within the incredible Zip World Tower site in South Wales, this grotto blends festive magic with the stunning industrial-heritage backdrop of the Rhondda Valley. Families can wander through the beautifully decorated space, enjoy interactive elements such as slate bauble decorating, and of course, meet Santa himself in a cosy grotto glowing with seasonal charm. Little ones love the surprises around each corner, while adults can soak in that nostalgic Christmas feeling. It’s a heart-warming festive adventure that brings generations together.

    

2. Zipmas – Zip World Llechwedd, Blaenau Ffestiniog, LL41 3N

   Zipmas isn’t just a meet-and-greet with Santa, it’s a full festive world built inside Zip World’s famous caverns in North Wales. The underground setting creates a truly unique Christmas experience, with twinkling lights, festive activities, and a magical cavern workshop where children meet Santa and receive their very own gift from his toy store above ground. It’s the perfect option for families wanting something immersive and a little different. Kids feel like they’ve stepped into Santa’s secret underground hideout, and grown-ups love seeing their excitement. With plenty of festive atmosphere and adventure woven into the experience, Zipmas is one of Wales’s most talked-about Christmas things to do.

    

3. Festive Forest – Zip World Betws-y-Coed, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0HX 

   Nestled within the woodland of Zip World Betws-y-Coed, Festive Forest is a beautiful, atmospheric Christmas experience that combines adventure with seasonal sparkle. Families follow a magical route through the trees, lit with twinkling lights, glowing adventures, and festive treats. It’s cosy, wholesome and heart-warming, and perfect for families wanting a Christmassy experience for both the younger and older members of the family.

    

4. Cardiff Christmas Markets 

   For families who love browsing stalls, tasting seasonal treats and soaking up traditional Christmas charm, Cardiff Christmas Markets are a guaranteed festive win. Located right in the heart of the city, these markets are packed with independent artisans selling handmade gifts, crafts, food, and decorations. Kids will love sampling sweets, watching crafters at work and taking in the colourful lights. Adults can enjoy mulled wine, festive food, and stress-free Christmas shopping. Combine the markets with a visit to Cardiff Winter Wonderland for ice skating and rides, and you’ve got the perfect family Christmas day out.

    

5. Llandudno Christmas Extravaganza

   The Victorian seaside town of Llandudno turns into a sparkling Christmas village during its Christmas Extravaganza, a lively four-day festival that’s ideal for families. With funfair rides, live entertainment, food stalls, and seasonal parades, this event brings together everything that makes Christmas exciting for kids and grown-ups alike. Families can wander through the chalet-style market stalls, enjoy festive performances, and try local food and drink. The atmosphere is joyful, bustling, and full of that traditional Christmas spirit.

Celebrate Christmas the Welsh way

Whether you're wandering through twinkling forests, exploring underground festive worlds, meeting Santa, or enjoying cheerful market stalls, Wales offers unforgettable Christmas experiences for all ages. With something magical around every corner, these five family-friendly attractions are sure to make your festive season one to remember.