As the festive season gets underway, Bridgend County transforms into a vibrant festival of lights, laughter, and cherished traditions. From family-friendly events to thrilling activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a guide to some of the festive highlights that make spending Christmas in Bridgend County a magical experience:
Christmas in Porthcawl: 30th November
Grab your Santa hats and head to Porthcawl for a day of festive fun! Embrace the charm of a Victorian Christmas with Porthcawl Museum and experience the festive season as it would have been in the 19th century, complete with period costumes, carol singing, choirs and plenty of enchanting decorations. Visit Santa in his grotto and enjoy the warm and inviting atmosphere with entertainment in the bandstand and around town, along with the switching on of the town’s Christmas lights and an amazing display from Spark! LED drummers!
St John’s House Christmas Open Days
Join St John’s House for festive open days on Saturday 30th November, Sunday 8th December and Saturday 14th December (11am - 3pm)., See the historical building, dating back to the 16th century, come alive with traditional Christmas decorations and festivities.
Storytime with Santa at McArthur Glen from 7th December
For a truly enchanting shopping experience, head to McArthur Glen Bridgend - offering a wide selection of stores, incredible Christmas decorations and lots going on to entertain shoppers and spread Christmas joy! From high-end fashion brands to homeware and gift shops, you'll find something for everyone on your list, and there’s extra sparkle at this time of the year with performances and activities to immerse yourself in the magic of the season. Hear stories from Santa every Saturday through December, write letters to the North Pole or capture Christmas photo memories with loved ones at the festive selfie areas!
Maesteg Christmas Parade: 7th December
Nothing captures the delight of the season like communities gathering together to celebrate Christmas! Maesteg Town Council's Christmas Lights Switch-On is an annual event marking the start of Christmas festivities in the town, where locals and visitors can enjoy a day filled with entertainment, music, and, of course, the highly anticipated lighting of the Christmas tree. Join friends and family to watch the town sparkle and shine, and be sure to check out the newly refurbished Maesteg Town Hall, an historical gem at the heart of the community. The town hall has recently reopened after a multi-million refurbishment to secure its future as a community venue treasured by the people of Maesteg, and will be hosting a Christmas Fayre on the day of the parade.
Santa’s Grotto at Carnegie House, Bridgend
Open on 30th November, 7th December and 14th December (10am - 3pm), Santa’s Grotto at Carnegie House offers a magical experience for children as they meet Santa and choose a gift, with plenty of opportunities to capture photographic memories. While you’re in town, check out the festive decorations and displays across the town centre and in The Rhiw Shopping Centre as you browse through the shops for those special Christmas presents! If you’re visiting on the 7th December, you’ll have the chance to buy unique handmade gifts from the pop-up Christmas Artisan Market at The Rhiw Shopping Centre.
Porthcawl Christmas Music Fest: 7th December
For music lovers, this celebration will be sure to get you into the Christmas spirit! Featuring local bands and choirs performing a variety of festive tunes between 11am - 4.30pm, Porthcawl Christmas Music Fest will be an uplifting treat to enjoy while you do some Christmas shopping in Porthcawl’s variety of stores - from high street names to independents and boutique outlets.
Bryngarw Winter Lantern Parade: 8th December
A celebration of creativity, community, Christmas and light comes to Bryngarw Park with a magical lantern parade. The parade will begin at 4.30pm, led by the amazing LED drumming troupe Worldbeaters SPARK! - illuminating the darkness joined by a giant puppet from the wonderful Small World Theatre. Afterwards, join in with Christmas carols as the fantastic Ogmore Valley Silver Band perform at 5.30pm.
Illuminated Tractor Run: 14th December
Starting at Parc Slip Nature Reserve at 4,30pm, a convoy of brightly decorated illuminated tractors, along with Santa’s sleigh will delight spectators as they travel to various places around the county borough including Tondu, Sarn, Aberkenfig, Pen y Fai, Bridgend, Cefn Glas, Laleston, Cefn Cribwr, Kenfig Hill, Pyle, North and South Cornelly and Porthcawl. One of the most anticipated events in the Bridgend County Christmas calendar, this family-friendly display attracts a warm atmosphere that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Christmas. The event, organised by Bridgend County Vintage Club, aims to raise money for chosen charities - find their donation page here.
Sons of Santa Christmas Ride Saturday 22nd December
Kick off your Christmas celebrations with the spectacular Sons of Santa Christmas Ride - a gathering of enthusiastic motorcyclists who every year, decorate their bikes and set off to Porthcawl to spread some festive cheer to passers by and raise funds for local charities. This heart-warming event not only showcases impressive bikes but also brings together the community as they visit care homes in Porthcawl along the way. See if you can spot Santa swapping his sleigh for a motorbike!
Porthcawl Christmas Day Swim
One of the most renowned Christmas events in Bridgend County is the Porthcawl Christmas Swim. Held annually on Christmas morning, this quirky tradition attracts hundreds of participants from far and wide who brave the icy waters in support of local charities. Each year a theme is set for fancy dress, with Deep Blue Sea being the theme for this year. Whether you’re taking the plunge or just there to soak up the feel-good experience, the Porthcawl Christmas Swim is undoubtedly an event that embodies the festive spirit of giving.
Sand Snowman Competition: 29th December
Do you want to build a (sand) snowman? Then Beach Academy Wales has the perfect event for you! Brave the winter elements for a fun-filled afternoon of playing in the sand with your loved ones, crafting your masterpiece of a sand snowman! While there are prizes up for grabs for the most impressive creations - everyone who takes part is a winner with a fantastically festive day out!
Come and enjoy a festive wonderland…
If you’re looking to embrace the holiday vibe with a winter break - why not experience the magic of Christmas in Bridgend County? Grab your loved ones, mark your calendars full of these Christmas events and join in the festive cheer! Staying a while? Whether you’re looking for a festive hideaway, cosy boutique hotel, or charming guest house, check out accommodation options here.
P.s Keep an eye on our social media for more festive happenings around Bridgend County!
