Contemporary art, flaming torches and more: how to make the most of Conwy County this winter

Winter is a superb time for a relaxing break with someone special, or a fun time away with the whole family. Here in North Wales, we’re all set for a sparkling season, with masses of exciting events lined up.

1. Enjoy world-class contemporary art in Llandudno

This winter, Mostyn, Llandudno’s pioneering art gallery, is co-presenting Artes Mundi 10, an exhibition featuring seven of the world’s most important international contemporary artists. On show will be work by Taloi Havini, a Nakas/Hakö artist from Bougainville Island in Papua New Guinea, who uses photography, video and audio to create large-scale abstract landscapes. Other artists featured at Mostyn this season include New York Minimalist painter Rosemarie Castoro.

Where?

Mostyn, Llandudno LL30 1AB

When?

Until 24 Feb 2024.

Click here to find out more.

2. Get that festive feeling in Llandudno

The elegant Victorian resort of Llandudno is lovelier than ever when it’s dressed to the nines. By mid-November, it’ll be looking thoroughly Christmassy, ready for the Llandudno Christmas Extravaganza, a free festive fair with tempting gift stalls, yummy food and drink, quirky entertainment and fairground rides. Following hot on its heels is the magical Llandudno Christmas Parade on the first Saturday in December.

Where?

Trinity Square, Llandudno LL30 2RH

When?

Thu 16 – Sun 19 Nov & Sat 2 Dec 2023.

Click here to find out more.

3. Treat the family to a show at Venue Cymru

Llandudno’s 1,500-seat theatre has a smashing series of winter shows waiting in the wings. There’ll be laughs aplenty on 18 November at Britain’s Got Comedy, hit musical Everybody’s Talking About Jamie arrives in late November, and come December it’s time to fly away to Neverland with the cast of Peter Pan.

Where?

Venue Cymru, Llandudno LL30 IBB

When?

See website for dates.

Click here to find out more.

4. Have a cracking night out at Theatr Colwyn

Take a seat in Colwyn Bay’s historic theatre this winter for star-studded live broadcasts from the National Theatre, musical tribute acts and, for all the panto fans among us, a fabulously festive family show – Mother Goose.

Where?

Theatr Colwyn, Colwyn Bay LL29 7RU

When?

See website for dates.

Click here to find out more.

5. Meet Santa and the Elves in Gwyrych Castle

This winter, Santa’s Enchanted Grotto returns to Gwyrych Castle. Kids will love chatting to Santa, his wife Mrs Claus and the hard-working Elves about all things Christmas. Expect sparkly decorations, tasty food and drink, goody bags and fun things to do.

Where?

Gwrych Castle, Abergele LL22 8ET

When?

Sat 2 – Sat 23 Dec 2023, Sat & Sun only (plus Fri 22), 10am – 3pm.

Click here to find out more.

6. Visit the Christmas Makers Market in Betws-y-Coed

Artisan growers, picklers, brewers and craftspeople from Eryri and beyond are gathering in the pretty village of Betws-y-Coed for a Local Producers and Makers Market. Everything will be locally-made, fresh, seasonal or all three, with sustainability the over-arching theme. Why not make a weekend of it, combining your shopping trip with a visit to Zip World Fforest to ride the Polar Coaster Express?

Where?

Royal Oak Hotel, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AY

When?

Sat 2 – Sun 3 Dec 2023, 10am–4pm.

Click here to find out more.

7. Step into a winter wonderland at Zip World’s Festive Forest

In December, Zip World Fforest gets a magical makeover. Arrive at the weekend around sunset to ride on the Polar Coaster Express, unique in the UK, and bounce around in the Snowtop Nets. With festive music, lighting, mince pies, hot chocolate and mulled wine, it’ll be a fun family adventure.

Where?

Zip World Fforest, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0HX

When?

Sat 2 – Sun 24 Dec 2023, Sat & Sun only, 3–7pm.

Click here to find out more.

8. Sing carols around the tree in Conwy and Llandudno

In the towns of Conwy and Llandudno this December, local schools, businesses and organisations will get busy with the lights and baubles as they prepare for the Christmas Trees Festival in aid of St David’s Hospice. As well as a host of twinkling trees, the will be free carol singing on Thursday 7 December from 6pm in Conwy and on Thursday 15 December from 7pm in Llandudno.

Where?

St Mary’s Church, Conwy LL32 8LD & St John’s Church, Llandudno LL30 2NN

When?

Mon 4 – Sat 16 Dec 2023, 11.30am – 3.30pm (closed Sun).

Click here to find out more.

9. Watch a torchlit procession light up the streets of Conwy

Conwy Winterfest brings a touch of medieval majesty to Conwy’s historic town centre. Expect a lively evening featuring street entertainers, musicians, choirs, morris dancing, sword fights, hot chestnuts and a costumed parade with flaming torches.

Where?

High Street, Conwy LL32 8DE

When?

Sat 9 Dec 2023, 4–7pm.

Click here to find out more.

10. Ring in the New Year at an elegant seaside hotel

Llandudno’s best places to stay are really pushing the boat out this New Year. To guarantee a night to remember, they’re offering festive packages including treats such as afternoon cream teas, evening bubbles and canapés, and luxurious evening menus featuring dishes with a distinctive Welsh twist. To welcome in 2024 in style, stay on for a few days in January to allow time for some shopping, bike rides or healthy country walks.

When?

Sun 31 Dec 2023.

Click here to find out more.

11. Celebrate Saint Dwynwen’s Day in Betws-y-Coed

In Wales, the most romantic day of the year isn’t in February, but in January. On 25 January, Saint Dwynwen’s Day, it’s time to treat the one you love to a card, a gift and perhaps some quality time away in honour of the Welsh patron saint of lovers. A cosy romantic break in Betws-y-Coed, with its picture-perfect scenery and starry skies, would be just dreamy.

When?

25 Jan 2024.

Click here to find out more.