Bangor is set to sparkle this December as the Bangor Christmas Festival brings a full day of festive cheer, live entertainment, and family fun to the city centre on Saturday 13 December 2025, from 10 am to 9 pm, which is free to attend.
This year’s festival will be particularly special as it forms part of the Bangor 1500 celebrations, marking 1,500 years of Bangor’s rich history, heritage, and community spirit.
Throughout the day, the city centre will be transformed into a winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, seasonal music, and the scent of festive treats, creating a fantastic atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.
What’s On
Food and Craft Stalls (10 am-5 pm)
Explore the High Street and discover a fantastic array of local produce, artisan crafts, and festive goods. From handmade decorations to locally made food and drink, it’s the perfect opportunity to find unique Christmas gifts while supporting local businesses. Christmas stalls and a small market can also be found in Penrhyn Hall.
Santa’s Grotto (from 12:00)
Meet Santa Claus in his cosy grotto next door to Trade Outlet (Old Debenhams unit). Children can enjoy a magical experience with Santa and his elves and take home a festive gift to remember the day.
Reindeer and Family Attractions
Meet real reindeer in Tan y Fynwent and enjoy family-friendly entertainment and activities in the City Sports Bar and street performances throughout the city centre.
Funfair 10:00-21:00
Enjoy the excitement of the funfair in Glanrafon car park with rides and attractions suitable for all ages, open throughout the day and early evening.
Live Music and Entertainment 15:00-21:00
The afternoon and early evening will feature an excellent line-up of local musical talent:
- 15:00 Deiniolen Silver Band by the clock
- 16:00 Genod Pres by the clock
- 17:00 Monswn Marquee in Storiel
- 18:00 Dylan Jones Marquee in Storiel
- 19:30 The Reviews Marquee in Storiel
Bangor 1500 – Celebrating Our City’s Story
The Christmas Festival forms part of Bangor 1500, a year-long programme of events honouring one of Wales’s oldest cities. Through exhibitions, performances, and community projects, Bangor 1500 celebrates the people, heritage, and culture that have shaped the city over the past fifteen centuries.
Dr Martin Hanks, City Director for Bangor, said: “The Bangor Christmas Festival is a wonderful opportunity for the whole community to come together and celebrate the festive season in the heart of our city. With this year marking 1,500 years of Bangor’s history, it promises to be an unforgettable day full of joy, pride, and festive spirit.”
Residents and visitors are encouraged to wrap up warm, bring family and friends, and enjoy a full day of festive fun as Bangor celebrates Christmas and 1,500 years of its extraordinary story – past, present, and future.
