With mulled wine flowing aplenty and the hunt for unique gifts starting anew, Rhonda Lee Reali checks out some of the best Christmas Markets in Wales.
NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDEN OF WALES’ WINTER WONDERLAND
If you’re looking for something quirkier from your Christmas fair this festive season, look no further. Combining startling light shows, a wonderful owl display, free mulled wine and mince pies, a bar, a barbeque and other yuletide treats, this nine-day long affair offers you everything you could desire for utter festive delight. The craft fair will also offer a chance for last minute gifts such as exclusive festive trinkets like jewellery and fine silk scarves.
National Botanic Garden of Wales, Llanarthne, Carmarthenshire. Fri 8 Dec – Sun 17 Dec. Info: 01558 667149 / www.botanicgarden.wales
CAERPHILLY CHRISTMAS MARKET
Adults and kids alike will have a ball at this two-day event, with yummy chocolate, mulled wine and fresh produce at over 100 food, craft and gift stalls. Included are a farmer’s market, craft fayre, music, entertainment and street theatre to indulge in. Santa’s grotto and traditional funfair rides will keep little ones happy, too.
Caerphilly Town Centre, Sat 9 – Sun 10 Dec Info: www.caerphilly.gov.uk/caerphillychristmasmarket
CARDIFF CHRISTMAS MARKET
Cardiff’s Christmas market is celebrating over 20 years as a staple of the city centre, with around 80 stalls and a rolling programme of 200 exhibitors. The core vendors include talented artists and craftspeople, including producers of Welsh slate work and recycled glass to purchase. For those who like a tipple, the various drinks on hand include craft beer and aged Celtic whiskey. Among the foodstuffs, there are also Gingerbread cookies, German Stollen and a wide range of Welsh cheese.
The Hayes, Cardiff, until Sat 23 Dec. Info: 07974561514 /Â www.cardiffchristmasmarket.com
CARMARTHEN CHRISTMAS MARKET
Now in its fifth year, the market in St. Catherine’s Walk has been extended into December. There’s various types of food and drink, including award-winning produce, honey products and edible printed chocolates. You’ll also be able to purchase everything from crystals to handmade soaps to iron and glasswork to put under your Christmas tree.
St. Catherine’s Walk, Carmarthen, Sat 2 – Sun 24 Dec. Info: 07740 573636 / www.gingerlili-fairs.co.uk
SWANSEA CHRISTMAS MARKET
Back again are the traditional red and green chalets manned by over 40 traders and filled with arts, crafts, fine foods, lovely decorations and unique gifts such as Himalayan Salt Lamps and fair-trade products such as woollen hats, gloves, socks and scarves. There will be new vendors each week with Belgian waffles, chocolate covered fruit, hand-made chocolate and fudge and doughnuts among the treats on offer to satisfy your sweet tooth and more.
Oxford St, Swansea, until Thurs 21 Dec. Info: 01792 636226 / www.enjoyswanseabay.com/events/swansea-christmas-market/