Fancy spicing up the festive season this year? Whether you want to go Christmas gift shopping, plan a party for friends and colleagues, or get away from it all this year, there is plenty to enjoy here in South Wales for November and December 2017. Here are just some of the highlights and events we’re looking forward to most:

Christmas Markets in South Wales (From 9th Nov to 23rd Dec)

There are various cute, crafty markets around the region as the nights draw in, but for the best choice of gifts and goodies your best bet is probably a day at Cardiff Christmas Market (Daily from Monday to Saturday, 9^th Nov to Sat 23^rd Dec). With beautiful decorations and stacks of excellent stalls, you can find presents for just about all tastes here. Just forty minutes from our doors, it’s especially good for food and handmade crafts, while hot chestnuts and mulled wine always add a warm glow proceedings too!

One of the best places to go Christmas shopping in Wales! (Image: Cardiff Christmas Market Facebook)

Crafts for Christmas at St Donats, Near Bridgend (3^rd December 2017)

Christmas crafts and live entertainment at Llanwit Major (Image: St Donats Facebook)

Packed with good food, arts and crafts, this Christmas special is not just great for gift shopping, but a grand day out in its own right. All ages will enjoy the Birds of Prey Display and live music, while families will also find Santa’s Grotto to keep the little ones happy. Should you miss the main festive event though, there are various other winter gatherings to enjoy at St Donats, including some great gigs. For full listings, see http://www.stdonats.com/

Christmas Parade and Waterfront Wonderland in Swansea (17 Nov 2017 till 7^th Jan 2018)

Another great place to enjoy some festive fun, Swansea’s own Christmas celebrations are worth a detour for families and couples. Ice skating to a backdrop of the City’s Christmas lights is perhaps the highlight, but the big wheel and market are also good fun. If you arrivwe on Sunday November 18^th there is also a special Christmas Parade and Lights Switch on to enjoy. For opening times, directions and all the information you need look no further than http://www.swanseachristmas.com

Christmas Lunches and Parties in Bridgend, South Wales

For a Christmas menu full of delicious local produce, we are hosting a series of special Christmas lunches and dinner parties throughout December 2017. Whether it is a celebration with friends or a party with your workmates, the chefs at Court Colman will be serving up all your festive favourites, along with some delicious alternatives, whether your thing is poached cod loin or a fabulous Brie, Mushroom and Hazlenut Wellington for the vegetarians. Take a look at our Christmas Dining page for dates and options for 2017. Do book as early as you can though, because we hate to disappoint!