A Cardiff Bay Halloween attraction has been forced to close due to safety concerns prompted by strong winds and coastal gales.
Organisers of the Cardiff Halloween Festival confirmed the decision to cancel Thursday night’s event, citing forecasts of severe weather across the region. The festival, which opened over the weekend, had already received mixed reviews, with one visitor describing it as the “worst event” she had ever attended. Organisers previously explained that adverse weather had delayed the completion of some areas of the festival.
The Met Office issued a warning for Wales on Thursday evening, stating: “Coastal gales developing during the evening with a heavier band of rain sweeping across the nation. Clear spells and a few showers overnight but remaining blustery.”
This year’s Halloween festival is taking place over half-term week, culminating on Friday, October 31. Previously held at Coedarhydyglyn Park, near Culverhouse Cross, the 2025 edition of the festival is being staged in Cardiff Bay, where a ghost ship is transporting families from Mermaid Quay to Alexandra Head island.
In a statement issued on Thursday, organisers said:
“We’re so sorry to say that due to the strong winds forecast for this evening we’ve had to make the difficult decision to close Halloween Island tonight. With our coastal location and exposure to the shoreline, the safety of our guests and crew must always come first, and the conditions would make it unsafe to open the site.”
They added: “We’d love for you to join us tomorrow instead. You don’t need to do anything—simply arrive with your existing ticket, and it will still be valid for entry. Please note that boat crossings will not be available tomorrow for guests transferring from tonight’s session, due to capacity limits. However, Halloween Island is just a 15-minute flat walk from Mermaid Quay, and our crew will be on hand to direct you. For those with reduced mobility, we have a limited buggy service available on a first-come, first-served basis. Speak to our crew at Mermaid Quay if you require this.”
The organisers concluded: “If you’re unable to join us tomorrow, a full refund will be processed automatically within 10 business days. We’re truly sorry for the disappointment and so appreciate your understanding. The weather may have paused our adventure tonight, but the magic of Halloween Island awaits you soon!”
