It’s that time of year once again. The sunsets over Whitesands Bay in the late afternoon, the cwtches in front of the log burner, and trips to pick up some beautiful bits and pieces in St Davids’ local shops. As November draws to a close, our minds turn to the twinkly lights and warm times with loved ones over Christmas. Here are some fantastic things to do in Pembrokeshire over this festive period.
Special Events in St Davids
St Davids Cathedral at Christmas
The Cathedral is at the centre of advent for the people of St Davids, whether they are religious or simply value the traditions, music and beauty of this majestic place. There are so many events there at this time of year, but two stand out this year. The first is the Christmas Through The Keyhole family trail, from Monday 1st December until Friday 19th December, which sees an interactive trail to help you become part of the retelling of the Christmas Story. Then there a Christmas Spectacular on the 7th December, with two choirs joining forces to put on a show of all your favourite Christmas songs.
Christmas lights switch-on – Saturday 29th November
Just what it says on the tin, with an extra dollop of Christmas cheer. The whole city gathers on Cross Square, sips on mulled wine and watches the lights sparkle on this special night. Some shops tend to open late and the pubs are havens from the coastal chill.
Christmas Markets
St Davids – 29th November
Before the Christmas lights are turned on in the evening, there are two Christmas fairs to enjoy! Park at the top of St Davids and begin by wandering around the stalls at the Oriel Y Parc Outdoor Christmas Market, open from 10am – 3pm. Then carry on down the hill to the Cathedral Christmas Fair, open from 10am.
The St Davids Christmas Market at the Cross Square is back on Thursday the 11th of December and Saturday the 20th of December
Llys y Fran Christmas Fair – 6th & 7th December
If you fancy fitting in a Christmas fair on the 1st weekend of December, Llys Y Fran is well worth the drive! They are transforming their visitors centre into a “festive hive of Christmas delights” with all sorts of local makers selling their goods. Be sure to leave time for a walk around the reservoir while you’re there.
Pembrokeshire County Show Christmas Fair – 13th & 14th December
The County Show is a highlight of the Pembrokeshire calendar in August, and this year they again are putting on a big Christmas Fair on the Showground in Haverfordwest. With an outdoor food court as well as plenty of small businesses and crafts people selling festive goodies, it’s going to be a lovely day out.
Festive Treats
In between Christmas shopping and making merry, be sure to fit in some time for yourself at Menevia Spa by booking one of their gorgeous winter treatments. How about a hot stone massage followed by some time in their bath house and sauna? Sounds perfect!
Festive Afternoon Tea Melin Tregwyt – 1st -19th December
Melin Tregwynt is a fabulous place to get some Christmas shopping done, with unique Welsh gifts for everyone. This year they are offering a festive afternoon tea all through the run-up to Christmas, and we cannot wait to sample what’s on offer. Booking is required!
Scolton Manor Spa Day – On until 31st December
This time of year is for spending time with loved ones, and of course, for taking care of yourself too. Treat yourself to a relaxing day at the gorgeous Scolton Manor with their Christmas Cracker package, complete with afternoon tea! The perfect way to unwind after a spot of Christmas shopping.
Get Outside
Whitland Santa Fun Run – 14th December
This is a fantastic event to either watch or to take part in! The roads of Whitland will fill with Santas running or strolling the route around the town from 12 noon. Want to take part but don’t have the get-up? Don’t worry! The run comes with a full Santa suit hat and of course beard!
This Boxing Day swim is famous all over the country, and is well worth heading to, whether you choose to dip or not! This year is extra special as the swim celebrates its 50th year. The crowds hit the water at 11.30am, followed by a bonfire and warm soup on the beach.
Broad Haven Christmas Pudding Run – 28th December
We’re thrilled that this long-loved event is back this year! A 10km run for the adults, and a shorter one for the kids, all beginning and ending on Broad Haven beach. Head there to watch the fun on the day
Children's Festive Fun
Folly Farm Santas Grotto– Every Saturday & Sunday until 21st December
This is a fantastic Santa’s grotto, complete with elves handing out gifts for the kids, and some mulled wine for the adults! This grotto comes with the added bonus of being at Folly Farm and Zoo, and so you can go and meet Santa’s reindeer after the main man himself. Entry is £8.50 per child.
Torch Theatre Panto – Rapunzel – 6TH December until 28TH December
If it’s a classic panto that you’re after this year, then this one is for you! The Torch Theatre is renowned for its fantastic pantomimes, and this year it’s an old favourite, Beauty & The Beast! Lots of laughs and plenty of chaos ensues, so get your vocal cords warmed up for all the traditional panto gags. They also have a BSL Performance on Tuesday 16th December, and a Relaxed Performance on Saturday 13th December.
Glow At Carew Castle – Every Friday, Saturday & Sunday – 28th November until 14th December
Head to the utterly magical place that is Carew Castle for some festive fun! Follow the twinkling lights to find the Walled Garden dressed for Christmas, with other delights to be found along the way.
Meet Father Christmas at Mansion Of Mystery, St Clears – Throughout December
Father Christmas has a very busy schedule in Pembrokeshire this year! Most weekends throughout December (click link above for full info) he will be visiting Mansion of Mystery with his friendly elves. Children can even explore where his pixies mine the magic dust that makes the sleigh fly!
Winter Workshops
Picton Castle Wreath Making Workshop – Saturday 6th December
Try your hand at wreath making at Picton Castle this year with their assistant head gardener, Matt. £30 per person which includes refreshments and entry into the beautiful gardens that day.
Welsh Workshop at St Davids Art House – 5th & 7th December
Design and make your own festive Lino print with the option of printing your own set of Christmas cards. A glass of wine and welsh cheese tasting will finish off our day.
New Years Eve
Fishguard’s fabulous street party is back this year, and we can’t wait for the fun and frivolities to ensue. The atmosphere is always fantastic, we reckon it’s going to be a great way to see in 2025!
Explore festive cottages on the St Davids Peninsula