The festive season is a wonderful time to spend together, and the Vale of Glamorgan has some lovely local activities to help you make the most of it. Whether you’re after relaxed outings, magical Christmas markets or chances to meet Santa, here are some family-friendly ideas for December and early January.
🎁 1. Visit the St Donat’s Castle Christmas Fayre
One of the highlights of the season locally is the Christmas Fayre at St Donat’s Castle. Held over a weekend – this year on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th December – the fayre brings together over 70 craft, food and drink traders offering handmade gifts, festive treats, decorations, and seasonal crafts.
Inside the castle and gardens you’ll find street-food stalls, international flavours, warm drinks and sweet treats, perfect for families looking to enjoy a cosy, festive outing.
Better still – Santa himself makes an appearance for meet-and-greets. Kids can chat to him, share their Christmas wishes and pose for a photo. Pre-booking is recommended for the grotto.
There’s also live entertainment throughout the day: magic shows, brass bands, music and more – so it’s not just a market, but a full festive experience.
Good to know: Tickets are per time-slot (sessions run 10am–1pm, then 1pm–4pm), and there’s a small fee if you go by car – but if you walk in, it’s very affordable.
🛍️ 2. Explore Local Markets & Towns: Cowbridge Christmas Weekend
Another lovely way to soak up the festive spirit is to visit Cowbridge during its Christmas Weekend. The high street lights up with seasonal cheer – twinkling decorations, live music, artisan stalls and a warm community atmosphere.
Families often enjoy slow, relaxed shopping, festive treats, and perhaps a special treat or two for children. It’s a great way to support local traders and enjoy a quieter, community-oriented festive outing without the bustle of a big city.
In some years, there are also extra events like a Santa grotto and even pantomimes or performances – worth checking local listings as December approaches.
🌲 3. Festive Fun Just a Short Trip Away: Cardiff and Surrounding Christmas Events
If you don’t mind a short drive or train ride, nearby Cardiff offers some big seasonal attractions that are perfect for a family day out:
- Winter Wonderland Cardiff – set in the grounds of Cardiff Castle and the City Hall lawn, this festive event features an open-air ice rink, fairground rides, an alpine-village atmosphere with hot drinks, and much more. Running from mid-November into early January.
- Christmas at Bute Park Light Trail – a magical mile-long light trail through 15 glowing light zones in wooded parkland, set against Cardiff Castle’s backdrop. Great for children of all ages – and fully accessible for pushchairs.
- Cardiff Christmas Market – with over 200 stalls selling crafts, gifts, seasonal food and drink. It’s open daily through much of December. Ideal for unique gift-hunting, festive browsing, and soaking up city-centre energy.
Combining a visit to the Vale with a day in Cardiff can give you both peaceful local charm and bigger-scale festive fun, perfect for families with different tastes!
🎬 4. Cosy Evenings: Local Theatre, Workshops & Events
For quieter or indoor fun, there are excellent options locally too:
- The festive events schedule at Penarth Pier Pavilion often includes workshops, classic film screenings, concerts and talks throughout December – great for a wet or chilly day out.
- Nearby countryside venues such as Forage Farm Shop & Kitchen sometimes run Christmas experiences: elf shows, craft-making, seasonal food, and opportunities for children to make decorations or Christmas treats. It’s a cosy, rural festive outing and ideal for younger children who prefer a slower pace.
💡 5. Tips for Making the Most of the Season
Plan ahead: Some events, especially markets and Santa meets, require booking tickets or entry timeslots (e.g. St Donat’s Fayre).
Combine local & city outings: A cosy morning in the Vale + an afternoon in Cardiff can give your family a balanced festive experience.
Wrap up warm: Many events are outdoors – dress in layers, bring wellies or warm boots (because Welsh winters 🥶), and enjoy those hot chocolates!
Support small businesses & local artisans: Markets and fayres are a great way to shop locally and pick up unique gifts.
🎉 From All of Us – Happy Festive Season!
Whether you’re new to fostering or have been part of our community for years, we hope this festive season brings you warmth, joy and special time together as a family.
If you visit any of these events or discover something new – don’t forget to share your photos and stories. We love seeing how fostering families in the Vale of Glamorgan celebrate the season together.
Blwyddyn Newydd Dda ac Nadolig Llawen i chi gyd! / Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
