Days are getting shorter, and nights are getting longer as Wales prepares for another winter. While the glow of summer is slowly going away, it certainly doesn’t mean that Wales will have no twinkle.
With at least 17 shows, events and family activities coming to the Welsh capital this autumn, Wales’s second city isn’t far behind. Legendary American singer Bob Dylan set to perform at Swansea Arena in November, and several other events planned throughout autumn, Swansea is set for an eventful transition into the winter.
With the last of summer events like the Swansea Bay 10K and Gower Walking festival concluding this weekend, we have compiled a list of events, activities, and gigs that are set to grace the city over autumn.
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So, snuggle up on a couch, grab a cuppa, and start planning which of these you’ll be going to.
Bob Dylan’s performance at the Swansea Arena is one of the biggest events being held in Swansea this autumn -Credit:Getty Images North America
1. Rough and Rowdy Ways Tour by Bob Dylan
Starting the list with a banger, the iconic American singer-songwriter will be performing at the Swansea Arena three times on November 9, 10, 11. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What’s On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here
While tickets for the event are no longer available, Swansea is sure to turn into a funfair as the iconic singer performs in the city after four years on the road.
For those attending, the 84-year-old has promised a “phone free” concert.
It is expected that the singer will be giving a nod to another Swansea icon, the world renowned Welsh poet Dylan Thomas whose surname Bob adopted. You can find all about the show here.
2. Save a buck at historic Swansea attractions
Oystermouth Castle will be one of the historic sites that can be visited for free in September -Credit:South Wales Evening Post
Wales’ heritage organisation, Cadw is once again running its Open Doors event this September.
This means you will be able to visit iconic attractions like Oxwich Castle, Swansea Minster, Oystermouth Castle, Dan-y-Graig Cemetery, Mansion House, St Nicholas and Springfield House for free.
You can know more about these attractions and what’s on offer here.
3. Have your fill at Oystermouth Food and Drink Festival
This food festival will be held at the Oystermouth Castle Grounds on Sunday September 14.
It will start at 11am, with demos and talks taking place from 12pm to 5pm.
The organisers hope to be showcasing local brewers and food businesses along with sharing the local talent.
Once there, you will find a licensed bar, street food, and food stalls all through the weekend along with rides, a bouncy castle and face painting.
The festival will also feature free live music played as you take a bite and you do not need to book for the event as entry is free.
4. Enjoy “An Evening of Timeless Melodies”
Coming to the Dylan Thomas Theatre on Saturday, September 20, this soulful performance by Shahzad and Haroon aims to present a celebration of the golden era of Indian and Pakistani music right up to recent Bollywood music with a “twist”.
The event promises a “heartfelt journey through the rich traditions of Ghazals and Bollywood Geets.” Accompanied by live performances on instruments like tabla and harmonium the event will mix poetic lyrics with timeless melodies.
Tickets start from £25 and can be booked on the Indian Society of South West Wales’ website here.
5. Singalong with Max Boyce
Max Boyce will be returning to Swansea is September and October -Credit:Chris Fairweather/Huw Evans Agency
The Welsh singer and comedian, Max Boyce will be performing at the Swansea Arena on Saturday, September 27 and Saturday October 11.
The singer has been wowing audiences with his stellar performances for more than 40 years. Having performed at iconic stages like those of the Royal Albert Hall, and the Sydney Opera house, the Welshman will be returning to Swansea for another eventful night.
While most tickets have already sold out, you can still snag VIP seats for yourself at £90 by clicking here.
6. Know “Killer Couples” with Emma Kenny
TV and YouTube’s true crime presenter Emma Kenny is coming to the Swansea Grand Theatre on October 2, with her show “Killer Couples.”
The show will take the audience through the “dark world” of killer couples as Emma “unravels the complex psychology of couples who commit the unthinkable.”
Organisers say the show promises “an evening filled with intrigue, psychological depth, and discussions that will linger long after the show ends.”
If you think you’re strong enough to brave through the nightmares, tickets prices for the event start from £30 and can be booked on the theatre’s website here.
7. Laugh out loud with Dara Ó Briain
Dara Ó Briain will be performing live in front of an audience at Swansea Arena on Friday, October 3.
Coming after his latest successful tour that saw 173 venues in 20 countries sold out, the Irish comedian’s new show “Re:Creation” will see him stand in the theatre and do what he does best: tell stories and engage with the audience.
Organisers guarantee it will be a “very, very, funny night.”
Most of the tickets are already sold out, but for the keen amongst you, some still remain and start from £34.90 plus a £3.95 transaction fee. You can buy tickets by clicking here.
8. Have your pick of events at Swansea Arts Weekend
Another big name in Swansea’s event calendar, the Swansea Arts Weekend will return once more and will be held between Saturday, October 11 and Sunday, October 12, 2025.
The festival is free to enter and will be held from 10am to 10pm on Saturday, and 10am to 8pm on Sunday.
Those attending will be able to enjoy a series of events including, live music performances, exhibitions and installations, workshops, interactive experiences, street entertainment, pop-up events, and industry talks.
The events will be held at different venues including galleries, event spaces, theatres, and outdoor venues.
As the full roster of events is still to be confirmed, keep an eye on the Visit Swansea Bay website to learn more.
9. Get spooked at Halloween events
It isn’t autumn without Halloween, and what’s a better way to enjoy the festival than to live it up with others looking to get spooked.
Spooks in City organised by Swansea Council will be returning this year on October 25 and will be held from 11am-4pm at St David’s place.
The council promises to turn St David’s place into a ghoulish area of fun, with themed entertainment, face painting, and live shows from Swansea dance schools. There are no tickets for the event, so you can just turn up dressed in your best outfit for a terrifyingly wonderful time.
Gower Fresh Christmas Trees is organising another Halloween event called the “The Monsters Ball – Glow & Foam Party” from Saturday October 25, to Friday, October 31.
The organisers promise a chance to meet Beetlejuice the Zombie and Dracula and “a spooktacular glow and foam extravaganza—packed with thrills, giggles, and ghostly delights for the whole family.”
Daily showtimes are:
However, this is a ticketed event and tickets for children aged one to 12 are priced at £9.99 and at £4.95 for those over the age of 11 and can be bought here.
You will also be able to enter the Pumpkin Patch though these will be priced individually if picked.
Mumbles Pier will also be hosting a range of Halloween events including Spooky Magic Shows on October 27, free Creepy Crafting on October 28, Mumbles Pier Monster Mash on October 29, Villains and Princesses Disco on October 30, and Ms Rachel and and Blippi Halloween Special on October 31.
These are standalone events and priced differently. More information can be found on the pier’s website here.
10. Satisfy your curiosity at Swansea Science Festival
Swansea Science festival, organised by Swansea University is returning this year and is expected to be “bigger and better than ever.”
Taking place on Saturday, October 25 and Sunday October 26, this year’s Swansea Science Festival will feature several low or no cost events being held for the entire family to enjoy.
This year’s festival will also see wildlife cameraman and Strictly Come Dancing champion Hamza Yassin take part as a star guest and share stories from behind the lens along with his passion for the natural world.
You see all the events that are available to enjoy, and buy tickets at Swansea University’s website
11. Get your groove on for the Swansea Fringe Festival
SZWÉ performing at 2022’s Fringe launch at Founders and Co -Credit:Swansea Fringe Festival
What’s autumn in the city without the Swansea Fringe Festival? Get your rock on and brace for three days full of music, poetry, rhymes, and comedy as the festival takes place from Thursday November 27, to Saturday November 29.
The “first wave” of artists gracing the Swansea Fringe Festival has already dropped and those attending can expect to see the likes of Afro Cluster, Butch Kassidy, Sandro Ford, Danielle Lewis, Mared, Madmadmad, Slag, and many more take the stage for what will some eventful three nights.
While the early bird tickets have already gone off sale, you can still buy the weekend tickets at £25 per ticket by clicking here.
12. Get wowed at the Swansea Christmas Parade
Santa as seen in last year’s Swansea Christmas Parade -Credit:Richard Swingler Photography
One of the biggest annual events in Swansea’ calendar will return this year and once again promises to display your favourite princesses, superheroes, and Santa, as the city dives head on into its winter festivities.
It will be held on Sunday, November 23, and will see dancers, bands, choirs, floats, inflatables, light up characters, and bring in the festive cheer as the Christmas Lights are turned on.
While the route is yet to be confirmed, the city’s streets will be filled with flashing lights and special effects as Santa makes his way through the city.
The Swansea Christmas Parade does not require you to book in advance, so you can simply show up and enjoy your day.
While more details will be confirmed in time, you can read all about last year’s parade by clicking here.