"Christmas in Penarth" is a special clebration coming to the town next month.

The event will take place on Thursday, 14 December from 3pm till late, and promises a festive wonderland for visitors of all ages.

The town will be alive, with shops extending their opening hours, providing an opportunity to find unique gifts, festive decorations, and special offers.

And seasonal treats will be had from the town's cafes and eateries, including free samples from some of your favourite foodie places like Bar 44.

Adding to the charm, Father Christmas will be on a walking tour of the town centre, spreading Christmas joy and listening to children's wish lists.

But the enchantment doesn't end there. KipMcGrath Education Centre is introducing a North Pole Post Office where kids can write their letter to Santa, and everyone can dance and have fun in PartyFizz'sSanta's Workshop, complete with glitter tattoos.

The streets of Penarth will also be filled with the sounds of live music from The Talent Shack's Saturday Juniors and Friday Bitesize groups, and Foxy's Deli's Cor Canu, creating the perfect festive backdrop.

Other activities dotted around town include flower arranging sessions with Lily Pad the Florist and drop-in glass-making sessions with Glass by Design. David Baker & Co will be hosting Tŷ Hafan in their newly-refurbished offices in Station Approach, where they will be selling handmade products in aid of the charity. Many of the town's businesses will also be giving out free mince pies, bubbles, and other refreshments.

And for this one day only, many of the town's independent businesses will feature various giveaways and special surprises.

Foxy's Deli invites you to savour the season with wine and cheese tastings, while Griffin Books will offer a free bookmark for purchases over £10.

Lily Pad the Florist and Gwil's Emporium promise a cozy shopping experience with complimentary refreshments.

Gwil's Emporium goes a step further, gifting a Christmas decoration with every purchase, and contributing to a good cause with tree decorations for RNLI.

Umpa Lumpa Sweet Shop tempts you with complimentary sweet treats, and Artisans Corner will offer free mince pies.

The Crêpe Escape unveils a special Christmas menu, and Gifts @ No 9 offers special lucky dips and 3 for 2 offers.

Rowley's The Jewellers will offer complimentary gifts like a Clogau travel jewellery roll and special offers on festive bundles, while ener-chi adds a touch of relaxation with festive treats and skincare consultations, topped off with a free ESPA essential travel product for purchases over £20.00.

Anne Morgan Jewellery ensures your purchases shine with a free cleaning cloth and silver studs for purchases over £150.

It's the season of giving, and Penarth's businesses are spreading the joy.

Festive Christmas Trails

Penarth will also be hosting two Christmas trails from now until Monday, 18 December 2023, offering the chance to win shopping vouchers with Penarth's independent shops.

The first trail invites participants to guess the Christmas songs that have inspired the beautifully decorated shop windows, while the second trail challenges you to solve festive anagrams. To take part in these trails, download the new VZTA Penarth app from https://www.vzta.com/download-vztaor visit https://www.penarthbusinessgroup.com to download and print a paper form.

Reflecting on the activities planned for Christmas, John Davies, Chair of Penarth Business Group and Managing Editor of Penarth View Magazine, said: "This festive extravaganza marks a significant milestone for our town's businesses and independent traders. It's not just a shopping event; it's a testament to the unity of Penarth's business community, working together on behalf of our town.

"As Chair, I am proud to see the collaborative effort that goes into creating an unforgettable experience for residents.

"This event is about the spirit of cooperation and highlights how Penarth's businesses are dedicated to their local community. Join us in making this Christmas truly special, supporting local businesses, and creating lasting memories for everyone in Penarth!"