How to celebrate Christmas in Cardiff on a uni budget

We’re finally in the run up for Christmas. The lights are up, department stores are decorated and Netflix Christmas is in full swing. Cardiff begins to look particularly pretty around this time of the year – the markets are up, winter wonderland has began, and if we’re lucky – snow. But don’t hold your hopes out for too much of this, we are in Wales.

However, as cute and cosy as these markets look, I’m sure our student loans may have something else to say about that.

We all know Christmas can be an extremely expensive time of the year, so here are seven ways that you can celebrate Christmas in Cardiff – on a budget.

1 – National Museum Cardiff

Cardiff’s biggest museum has events going on throughout late November and December. From a screening of The Snowman for six pounds, to a silent disco for nine pounds, the range is truly there.

It is a walkable distance from Cathays and located almost opposite the Centre for Student Life. Whether you’re looking for a movie night with the girls or a boogey with the boys, the museum has got your back.

Click here for more information.

2 – Ice Skating

Set up next to Cardiff Castle every year is a big Ice Skating rink, as well as a number of food and drink spots. It always has a very jolly atmosphere, and whether you go ice skating or not, the location is definitely worth a visit just for the vibes alone.

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For £12 off-peak students, you can enjoy an hour of Ice Skating around the castle. It’s not the cheapest thing in the world, but I would say is definitely good value for money as everyone has fun – even if you can’t quite stay upright.

Click here for more information.

3 – The Ice Bar

Very near to the Ice Skating at the Castle, you can find the Ice Bar. It’s £12.75 per person for entry when booked off-peak, but that includes a free shot and a free alcoholic (or not) drink on arrival.

It’s a bar set in -10 degrees and can be very busy so is highly recommended to book in advance.

Click here for more information.

4 – Local cafes

While we love to support the local businesses at the markets, it can’t be ignored how expensive the prices can sometimes be.

While you’re out and about around the markets, it’s always worth popping over to a local coffee shop that exists all year round – they’re far less likely to hike their prices up just for the season. A particular favourite is Brodie’s Coffee situated next to the National Museum Cardiff and you can bag a bagel and a coffee for around £5 – just make sure to ask for the student discount.

5 – The Bay’s reindeer trail

An entirely free activity you can do to put yourself in a Christmas mood is the Reindeer trail at Cardiff Bay.

It’s a self-guided tour around the bay, spotting nine different wicker reindeers. You have to find clues along the way and it’s definitely aimed at young families – but fun nonetheless.

6 – New Theatre Cardiff

The New Theatre in Cardiff puts on seasonal shows around the holiday season.

This year they are showing All I Want for Christmas is Musicals through December. If that’s your thing, then tickets are £22 for students – pretty reasonable for a a musical.

It would be the perfect thing to take your musical loving family to when they come and visit you over Christmas.

Click here for more information.

7 – Black Friday Sales

Last but most certainly not least. The Black Friday sales!

This year Black Friday is on the 29th of November, but it’s always worth checking the stores you love, as some sales run on different dates.

Black Friday is the perfect excuse to go shopping for yourself on a budget, but also stock up on those last minute Christmas presents without completely breaking the bank.

However you decide to celebrate the winter months, make sure to wrap up warm and enjoy.