From indie gems in the Victorian Arcades to new openings in Cardiff Market and big High Street names, the Welsh capital is shaping up as one of the UK’s most exciting festive food and drink destinations this Christmas.

Folly Farm in Pembrokeshire is celebrating the birth of its second critically endangered eastern black rhino calf – only the second rhino ever to be born in Wales and a major milestone for the European breeding programme.

St David’s Cardiff is turning up the festive magic this December with Win Your Wishmas – its biggest-ever Christmas giveaway, gifting £13,000 of shopping sprees and prizes, plus a new appeal to “gift Christmas” to five local families across South Wales.

Ivor Novello Award-winning artist Self Esteem will bring her acclaimed A Complicated Woman era to TK Maxx presents Depot Live at Cardiff Castle next summer, with special guest Kae Tempest joining her for a huge outdoor headline show.

Arizona rock icons Jimmy Eat World are bringing their Bleed American 25th anniversary show to Cardiff Castle in summer 2026, joined by special guests Rise Against, The Get Up Kids and Jay Som for a huge night at TK Maxx presents Depot Live.

Cardiff-born entrepreneur Morgan Wilce is reshaping what a used car dealership can look like. At just 20, he’s grown Birchwood Motors from a £1,500 idea into a seven-figure business led by a young team in Cardiff

Alt-pop star Mae Stephens has announced her first ever UK tour for Spring 2026, including a Cardiff date at Clwb Ifor Bach on Friday 27 March – backed by Music Venue Trust’s Liveline Fund to support grassroots venues, artists and promoters.

New retail data from Beauclair, shared by FOR Cardiff, suggests December will be a “defining month” for Cardiff city centre - with Black Friday and Cyber Monday expected to play a crucial role in unlocking festive spending.