With Halloween around the corner and a crisp chill in the air, it can only mean one thing: winter - and more specifically Christmas - is coming. And with that comes the return of one of the city's most popular attractions boasting ice skating, marshmallow toasting, fair games and more - Cardiff's Winter Wonderland.
The much-loved fairground will make its way back to the Welsh capital on Tuesday, November 15 and will run until Sunday, January 8 . Like last year, the event will be taking place over two beautiful locations - City Hall Lawns and Cardiff Castle.
People can expect to see the Wonderland's covered ice rink (which is recommended to be booked in advance) and magical 150-meter open-air ice walk set against the beautiful backdrop of the Castle's Norman keep. After whipping off your skates, explore one of the many food vendors on offer around the grounds - enjoy a Yorkshire pudding wrap or toast some marshmallows over the open fire in the new seating area while you marvel at those tackling the rink.
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At City Hall, the Big Wheel is back where you can have the best views of the city's stunning skyline as well as rides and food including German sausages, hot chocolate and mulled wine. The attraction's Ice Bar - offering cocktails, beer, prosecco and flavoured vodka shots and sessions for which should be booked in advance - is also back alongside the alpine ski bar Sur La Piste.
This ski bar also boasts a outdoor roof terrace where you can not only enjoy a warm - or cold - drink, but live entertainment too.
We can't think of a better way to start the Christmas season.
Norman Sayers, who organises Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland said: “We’re thrilled to be bringing Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland to the city again this Winter, and especially the return of our biggest ever layout offering maximum fun for visitors to enjoy.
“Occupying two key sites means Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland can again complement the wider winter activities being held across the city – including the traditional Christmas Market and Santa’s Grotto on Queen Street.
“With the increased capacity to the ice bar as well as a new theme and sculptures for 2022, we’re looking forward to welcoming even more visitors to our unique attraction.”
Councillor Jennifer Burke-Davies, Cabinet Member for Culture, Parks and Events, added of Winter Wonderland's much-anticipated return: “The festive season is always special and with Winter Wonderland back and bigger than ever, the traditional Christmas markets returning, the festive lights sparkling, and a whole lot more on offer for visitors and residents to enjoy, this year is shaping up to be a very merry Christmas in Cardiff.”
Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland will be open from November 15 to January 8. Ice skating tickets are on sale now. For tickets, visit the website.
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