7 Christmas experiences in Wales for the whole family (original) (raw)
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Winter is fast approaching so it's time to get booking those Christmas experiences to make the festive season one you won't forget.
Whether you're a fan of the laugh-out-loud antics and colourful characters of a pantomime or you're eagerly anticipating that magical moment when your child can meet Santa in person, we've found something for everyone to enjoy in Wales. Take a look below...
Aladdin by Rainbow Valley Productions
Rainbow Valley Productions (Image: Rainbow Valley Productions)
If it’s non-stop laughter you’re after this Christmas, then book your seats for Aladdin by 2024 National Pantomime Awards finalists, Rainbow Valley Productions.
Produced by the legendary Owen Money, this year's fun-packed pantomime from is flying into the Congress Theatre, Cwmbran, from December 13 to 30, 2024.
Aladdin and his none-too-bright brother, Wishee Washee - the two sons of eccentric, impoverished laundry owner Widow Twanke - want to become rich because, unbeknownst to each other, they’re both in love the Princess Jasmina!
Add to this mirthful mixture, a flirtatious genie, stunning sets, gorgeous costumes, and lively, up-to-the-minute song and dance routines - not to mention, the amazing flying carpet, an elephant, and a dragon.
You can be assured that when you enter any theatre where this Rainbow Valley Production is being staged - as far as your every day troubles are concerned, ”they’re behind you!”
Find out more: Visit rainbowvalleyproductions.co.uk and follow on Facebook
Cinderella at New Theatre Cardiff
New Theatre Cardiff (Image: New Theatre Cardiff)
You shall go to the ball this Christmas with the spectacular family pantomime, Cinderella.
Cardiff’s magical family panto stars presenter Gethin Jones as Prince Charming, broadcaster Owain Wyn Evans as Dandini, much-loved New Theatre Cardiff regular Mike Doyle as the Baroness, and returning favourites Denquar Chupak as Cinderella, and Stephanie Webber as the Fairy Godmother.
Packed with all of the traditional pantomime ingredients that New Theatre Cardiff audiences expect, Cinderella features laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes, and plenty of boos and hisses.
Join Cinders as she goes from rags to riches, outwits her very wicked sisters, and meets her Prince Charming.
Find out more: Visit newtheatrecardiff.co.uk and follow on Facebook
Wookey Hole's Winter Wonderland
Wookey Hole (Image: Wookey Hole)
Celebrate the festive season at Wookey Hole’s Winter Wonderland on weekends from November 23, 2024, and daily from December 21 to Christmas Eve.
The adventure includes a visit to Santa in his traditional grotto, a magical light installation in the caves, and a festive-themed circus performance. Children will meet Santa and receive a special gift from Santa’s elves, all included in the ticket.
Keep the festive fun going after Christmas, when Wookey will welcome a special guest who will delight everyone, as Paddington is set to make daily appearances from December 27 to January 5, 2025.
Advanced booking is essential to meet Santa.
Find out more: Visit wookey.co.uk and follow on Facebook
The Royal Mint Christmas Experience
The Royal Mint (Image: The Royal Mint)
The countdown is on for The Royal Mint's biggest Christmas experience yet!
With more immersive moments, more winter magic and even more festive fun, The Royal Mint Christmas Experience is a festive tradition you can’t miss.
New for 2024, you can meet the residents of the North Pole; on your journey to Santa, step through the portal to the secret substation, and encounter some marvellous characters who will lead you to the big man.
And the Festive Pantomime, which is included in the price of your ticket, will have you belly-laughing at its hilarious and heart-warming live show.
Join the festivities from Saturday, November 23 to Monday, December 23, 2024.
Find out more: Book today at royalmint.com
Santa's Grotto at IKEA Cardiff with Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity
Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity (Image: Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity)
The magical Santa’s Grotto at IKEA Cardiff is back for 2024.
There’ll be extra festive entertainment at weekends, additional dates for specially adapted quiet sessions, and Welsh language dates if your child would prefer to visit Sion Corn.
It is £12 per child for a visit and gift, or £14 for a visit, gift and photo. Adults go free and all proceeds go to the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity.
No need to book, just visit and feel the magic.
Find out more: Visit noahsarkcharity.org and follow on Facebook
Dick Whittington at The Riverfront Theatre, Newport
Newport Live (Image: Newport Live)
Join Dick Whittington and his trusty cat on an epic journey in search of friendship, fortune, and fun. Will the journey go to plan? Will the road be paved with gold? In true pantomime style, is anything ever simple?
This rags-to-riches tale promises to be full of laugh-out-loud gags, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes, the baddest of baddies, and plenty of audience participation.
This timeless family pantomime will transport you to a land where love conquers all - don't miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary adventure taking place at The Riverfront Theatre from November 27, 2024 to January 4, 2025.
Find out more: Get tickets at newportlive.ticketsolve.com, call 01633 656 757, and follow on Facebook
Jack and the Beanstalk at Torch Theatre
Torch Theatre (Image: Torch Theatre)
Is it panto season? Oh yes, it is! This year’s festive feast is the ever-popular Jack and the Beanstalk, with a special Torch Theatre twist.
Featuring a beanstalk reaching high into the sky, blueberry pies and magical rainbows, meet Jack and his delightful dairy cow, Pat, as they trot off to Carew Car Boot sale. What’s not to love?
Show dates are from December 13 to 29, 2024, with matinee and evening performances. There's also a relaxed environment performance on Saturday, December 14 at 2pm, and BSL performance on Tuesday, December 17 at 6pm.
Tickets cost £23.50, £19.50 for concession, and £75.00 for families.
Find out more: Visit torchtheatre.co.uk, call 01646 695 267, and follow on Facebook