Our Favourite Christmas Markets In South and Mid-Wales

Christmas time in Mid-Wales is truly enchanting. The rolling green hills, delicately coated with a soft glaze of frost, and the snow-capped mountains of the national parks set the perfect scene.

One of the highlights of staying in Wales during the Christmas break is being able to take part in the many Christmas markets being hosted during this time.

With markets scattered across the country, you're sure to find something perfect for you. Whether you're on the lookout for gifts to delight your loved ones or simply looking to explore the rich culture that suffuses each market, they are a wonderful place to be.

It is with all of this in mind that we've put together a list of some of our favourite South and Mid-Wales Christmas markets.

Hay-on-Wye Christmas Market, Mid-Wales

Nestled along the Wales-England border, the town of Hay-on-Wye carries a distinct sense of autonomy to it. This is particularly noticeable when you wander through its charming shops.

Hay-on-Wye boasts an atmosphere that celebrates the unique, making it the perfect place to find that one-of-a-kind gift on your Christmas shopping expedition. As you explore this market, you'll feel a charming and welcoming atmosphere throughout your holiday shopping experience.

When visiting during the holiday season, you're in for a special treat with the Hay Festival Winter Weekend. This event features a delightful food festival and a vintage fair, creating a festive ambience that perfectly complements the season.

The market is running from 26th - 30th November 2025. 

Cardiff Christmas Market, South Wales

Embrace the holiday spirit as you explore Cardiff's premier shopping destinations. The St David’s shopping centre stands as a beacon, featuring prestigious retail brands and flagship stores like John Lewis and Apple. Venture into the warren of Victorian and Edwardian arcades to discover the city’s strong independent streak, with numerous home-grown boutiques, cafes, and delis waiting to be explored.

Christmas transforms the area, adding a large street market just outside the traditional Victorian indoor market. Organised and successfully run for 31 years, the Cardiff Christmas Market offers a unique blend of traditional and modern shopping experiences.1

With 70 stalls showcasing an extensive rolling programme of over 200 individual businesses, the market is a treasure trove of diverse arts and crafts. Spanning St. John Street, Working Street, Trinity Street and Hills Street, you can immerse yourself in the festive ambience, interspersed with seasonal food and drink, as you indulge in a shopping experience that celebrates creativity and originality.

Taking place Thursday 13th November and Tuesday 23rd December, don't miss this opportunity to make your holiday shopping truly special in the lively and magical atmosphere of Cardiff's Christmas Market.

Builth Wells - Royal Winter Fair

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit and witness the grandeur of the finest prime stock show in Europe at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair. Held annually at the Royal Welsh Showground in Builth Wells, this event takes place on Monday 24th November, and Tuesday 25th November. It promises two days of excitement, competition, and a unique Christmas shopping experience.

You can join the crowds flocking from far and wide to partake in this exceptional celebration of Christmas. The Royal Welsh Winter Fair stands as one of the premier prime stock shows in Europe, offering a festive extravaganza with a diverse array of competitions, festivities, and opportunities for holiday shopping. You can buy your tickets direct from their website.

The event serves as a festive hub where you can kick-start your holiday season in style. Explore the numerous competitions featuring cookery, crafts, livestock, and hounds, showcasing the best of the season. 

Venture into the expansive food hall brimming with local Welsh produce, browse craft stalls adorned with beautiful handmade products, and visit Santa's Grotto for a magical encounter. The grand finale awaits with a magnificent fireworks display, bringing the Royal Welsh Winter Fair to a spectacular close.

Myddfai Christmas Craft Fair

Nestled on the western edge of the Brecon Beacons, Myddfai is a charming village and much-sought-after tourist destination. Renowned for its rich history and heritage, this village becomes especially enchanting during the winter season.

Immerse yourself in the Myddfai Christmas Craft Fair. Hosted at the Village Community Hall, this year. Date are to be confirmed, but you can keep up to date by visting mydffai.org. this Christmas market promises a delightful array of local crafts, cakes, games, and even a quiz for all to enjoy.

As you explore the fair, take in the festive spirit and indulge in the local cafes, who serve up delightful treats. These include mulled wine, mince pies, and other tasty homemade refreshments. It's the perfect opportunity to find unique Christmas gifts, support local artisans, and revel in the joyous atmosphere of Myddfai during this magical time of year.

Don't miss this wonderful Christmas market in the heart of the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park.