CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS IN SWANSEA WITH A SLEIGHFUL OF FESTIVE FUN
Swansea Bay is set to transform into a winter wonderland this November and December, with a spectacular line-up of festive events for all ages. From nostalgic markets and dazzling parades to creative workshops, thrilling rides and an ice sculpture trail, the area promises a Christmas season full of sparkle, tradition, and joyful celebration.
Festive attractions in the heart of Swansea
Waterfront Winterland makes a grand return, open from 21st November – 4th January, with its much-loved undercover ice rink, Alpine Bar, funfair and Giant Wheel. Visitors can skate beneath twinkling lights, enjoy festive treats like toasted marshmallows and mulled wine, and take in panoramic views of the city from the top of the wheel.
Visitors can step back in time at The Swansea Victorian Christmas Fayre, taking over Oxford Street, Princess Way and Portland Street from Thursday 20th to Sunday 23rd November. Visitors can browse artisan gifts whilst enjoying roasted chestnuts, mulled wine and live entertainment from carol singers and Victorian street performers.
On Sunday 23rd November, the city centre will come alive with the incredible Swansea Christmas Parade, a spectacular procession of dancers, bands, floats, superheroes, princesses, and light-up characters. Santa himself will make a grand entrance to switch on the city’s Christmas lights, marking the official start of the festive season.
Art, ice and all things nice
The BIG Christmas Family Paint Along on Saturday 22nd November invites families to join Claire, The Paint Along Lady, for a fun-filled afternoon of festive painting, prizes and seasonal cheer in the Swansea Building Society Arena. Later that evening, The Big Christmas Paint Along offers an 18+ twist on the experience, combining drinks, step-by-step painting and a DJ playing all the Christmas hits.
Just a short stroll away, Swansea Christmas Market will once again line Oxford Street and Portland Street with festive cheer, from 29th November to 22nd December, offering handcrafted gifts, delicious street food and seasonal drinks. The Bavarian Bar provides a cosy retreat with deluxe hot chocolates and mulled wine, while the Carollers’ Cabin hosts live performances and a sparkly Santa scene perfect for family photos. Don’t miss the Crafty Corner weekends on 5th – 7th Dec and 12th – 14th Dec!
Adding even more sparkle to the season, the city centre will host a ‘Fire and Ice’ event on the weekend of 6th – 7th December. Visitors can follow a dazzling nine-sculpture ice trail throughout the city, try their hand at the interactive ice wall, and watch incredible live carving shows. The atmosphere will heat up with pyrotechnic displays, fire jugglers, and roaming street entertainment. Families can also enjoy live music, capture a festive photo inside a giant snow globe near the Carollers’ Cabin, and toast treats at the giant marshmallow roasting pit. Each ice sculpture will be created from scratch each day, making both days of the event uniquely spectacular.
On the weekend of 13th – 14th December, the festivities continue with the Mistletoe and Market weekend, a family-focused celebration featuring magic shows, photo opportunities, and live music in both the Market Garden and at the Carollers’ Cabin. Visitors can also enjoy performances from a retro-style singing trio and meet roaming characters spreading Christmas cheer throughout the City.
With festive fun around every corner, Swansea Bay invites visitors to wrap up warm, bring their Christmas spirit and make magical memories this holiday season. For full activity listings, timings and updates, visit the Visit Swansea Bay ‘What’s On’ page at www.visitswanseabay.com/whats-on
