About Cardiff
Situated in South Wales, Cardiff is the country’s lively capital city. Known for its ancient castles, stunning beaches, tantalising restaurants and fantastic music, Cardiff is Wales’ cultural and administrative centre. In recent years, Cardiff has transformed into a tourist hot spot. For example, in 2011, Cardiff was ranked as the sixth alternative tourist destination in the world by National Geographic. Indeed, around 18 million tourists visit Cardiff each year, proof that the city has a considerable amount to offer visitors from across the globe.
Hosting a birthday party in Cardiff is a great choice. The city is small but lively, meaning you can travel around Cardiff easily. This handy guide will help you craft a birthday party that goes above and beyond expectations.
Birthday Party Options in Cardiff
Planning a birthday party takes time and effort and can be stressful at times. However, enlisting the help of some expert vendors such as caterers and entertainers will ease the burden and ensure your party goes off without a hitch.
- Catering
The type of catering you choose will depend on your chosen venue and the party theme. For example, if you’re hosting a disco in a hall, a buffet might be the best option as guests can pick and choose the food they want and when they want. Alternatively, if you’re hosting a more formal affair, a sit-down meal might be best-suited.
- Entertainment
To ensure your guests are thoroughly entertained and engaged, you may want to consider hiring an entertainer. This can be in the form of a DJ, a lone musician or a band. We promise that hiring an entertainer will have your guests on their feet all night!
- Decorations
Create a fun and exciting atmosphere by decorating your chosen birthday party venue with balloons, banners, bunting and more. The good news is that there are many businesses in and around Cardiff that can help you find the perfect decorations for the birthday party.
Birthday Party Vendors in Cardiff
- Sugarloaf Catering
Family-run catering company Sugarloaf Catering was founded in 2005 and provides catering services for private parties, weddings and other events involving hundreds of people. The company offers a friendly and professional service, with a variety of catering options to choose from, including hog roasts, finger food, plated buffets and much more. Additionally, Sugarloaf Catering creates delicious food with local ingredients from suppliers based in surrounding areas, including Abergavenny, Brecon and Crickhowell. So if you’re searching for a reliable caterer in the South Wales area, Sugarloaf Catering fits the bill!
- Session Entertainment
If you’re looking to hire live entertainment for a birthday party, Session Entertainment can help. The company mostly caters to clients in the South Wales area, but can travel further if required. Session is a band made up of five talented individuals, fronted by two incredible lead singers. Furthermore, the band craft their song list to ensure the music aligns with your theme and the age of those attending the birthday party. With Session performing, your birthday party is sure to be a hit with your guests.
- Party World
Cardiff-based Party World provides everything you’ll need for a birthday party, including balloons, banners, candles and other party decorations. Additionally, Party World has a large variety of fireworks to choose from. So if you’re hosting the birthday party at a suitable venue, perhaps you’ll consider lighting some fireworks as your guests gaze up at the skies in wonder.
Pros and Cons of Birthday Parties in Cardiff
Advantages
- Plenty of vendor options
Being a capital city, Cardiff offers a multitude of shops and businesses that can help you in throwing the perfect birthday party.
- Thriving nightlife
If you want to cap off your birthday night with a fun afterparty or a cosy night-out, then you will be spoilt for choice in Cardiff since nightlife here is amazing. Home to eclectic clubs and sophisticated cocktail lounges, Cardiff has a centralized area for bars and nightclubs which makes it easier for people to hop from one place to another!
- Green spaces
Cardiff has plenty of green spaces. A crowd favourite is Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve, a 19-acre green space that looks out onto the water. Furthermore, Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve is the perfect place to go wildlife spotting if you count yourself an animal lover. If you're looking to do something special in Cardiff even when your party's over, try visiting the area's green spaces!
Disadvantages
- Weather
Unfortunately, one of the worst things about Cardiff is the weather. The city experiences regular rain showers, and if it’s not raining, it’s likely to be overcast. Top tip: always bring a raincoat and an umbrella with you to Wales!
- Traffic congestion
Cardiff is growing rapidly, with more and more people choosing to call it home or visit for the weekend. As a result, traffic congestion is worsening. Anticipate heavy traffic if you're in the middle of last-minute preparations for your birthday!
Famous Locations in Cardiff
- Fforest Fawr
Located only six miles from Cardiff city centre, Fforest Fawr consists of scenic woodlands, walking trails, a castle and ancient archaeological sites. There are multiple beautiful walking trails to choose from, including a sculpture trail, old mining caves and the magnificent 19th-century Castell Coch. Just a couple of minutes walk from the spectacular castle, you’ll find a cosy cafe where you can stop for something to eat and drink before continuing your stroll. So if you’re in the mood for adventure, don’t hesitate to visit idyllic Fforest Fawr!
- Penarth Beach
Just south of Cardiff, you’ll find beautiful Penarth Beach. The pebble beach is very popular with locals and tourists alike, as it is a fantastic walking location. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled for fossils! Once you’ve spent some time strolling along the beach, why not stop at the esplanade and choose from one of the cafes and restaurants dotted along the seafront? Sounds like the perfect way to end a day of beach exploration!
- Chapter Arts Centre
Chapter Arts Centre, located in Cardiff city centre, is one of Europe’s largest arts venues. Even better, the building is open seven days a week and is free to enter. Inside Chapter, there are various attractions to choose from, including performances, films, documentaries, art installations, classes and talks. You’re sure to find something exciting to do inside Chapter Arts Centre!