SANTA’s legendary arrival was witnessed by a huge crowd on the first evening of the three-day Pembroke Castle Christmas Market.

The event saw Father Christmas arrive in style as he abseiled down the 75ft keep. His arrival was heralded with fireworks and his descent greeted with squeals of excitement from the children. It was, as one visitor put it, “such a magical evening,” while another remarked: “the kids faces said it all!”

The town’s Norman Castle, the birthplace of the Tudor dynasty, was dressed up for the season with a Christmas trees, giant candy canes and nutcracker statues. The festive market was opened by Mayor of Pembroke, Cllr Gareth Jones, who announced: “Christmas is about to start with a bang,” and welcomed everyone to “come on in.”

Nigh on 80 stall-holders braved a variety of rain, wind and hail to help deliver a memorable Christmas Market that brought together thousands of locals and suppliers from across Pembrokeshire.

With many craft and food stalls and plenty of hot food and drinks to be had, there was something for everyone in the marquees that had been erected by Blue Sky Marquees during the snows of late November.

First up in the line-up of choirs and musicians were the pupils of Golden Grove Primary School, who got the market off to a brilliant start. Ysgol Bro Penfro Years 3-6 were praised for their beautiful singing.

Other musicians during the three-day festive event included Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir, who created a wonderful atmosphere with their stunning afternoon performance, and Cleddau Flute Choir, making everyone feel very Christmassy.

Pembroke Castle expressed gratitude to the school choirs, the stallholders, Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir, Cleddau Flute Choir and all who made the 2025 market a success:

“Thank you to Santa and his team of Elves who once again did a terrific job this year.

“Thanks to Stuart from The Climbing Company for helping Santa arrive safely today.

“Thank you to our wonderful Pembroke Castle Team for working tirelessly to stage this year's Christmas Market event. You all deserve a rest soon! Thank you to Valero and their volunteers for supporting us again this year and raising funds for the Maxwell Family Genomics Fund, a great cause.

“Preseli Pete & The Bluestone Boys, what a show you gave us again this year! Thank you for keeping everyone dancing.

“Thank you Castle Brass - they’ve been performing every year since we launched this event in 2012 - a superb performance.

“Thank you to Magnum PA Limited and EPS Events for sound, lighting and Santa's firework, as well as making it snow! Thank you Wayne, Jez and Phil.

“Thank you to Merts Medical for your highly professional service… a pleasure to work with.

“Finally, last but not least Elite Security… thank you for looking after us and making us laugh all weekend.”

The Ashdale Care Home Ramblers summed up the fun when they posted: “We shopped, sampled, dressed up with the lively Mount Pleasant Church ladies and enjoyed a baileys hot chocolate or two!”