The ten square miles of Wales that are the most Christmas obsessed on the planet – according to Google

If you live somewhere in the ten square miles between Ystrad Mynach, Abercynon and Bedlinog you seem to live in the most Christmas-obsessed part of the planet.

Google Trends over the past 17 years show exactly the same thing over and over – that this corner of Wales is the most interested in Christmas, not just in the UK, but in the whole world.

Google stats since 2004 show that most searches for Christmas came from Ystrad Mynach. Over the past five years that crown has been stolen by nearby Bedlinog, and over the past year by Abercynon down the road.

One reason for the number of searches for Christmas in Ystrad Mynach might be the Winter Food & Crafts Market there. Caerphilly County Borough Council has announced that after Covid restrictions last year there will be a Winter Food & Craft Markets in the town centre this year.

Entertainment, such as roller-skating snowmen and a stilt-walking Rudolph means there will be activities for all ages. The market will be held on Bedwlwyn Road and Oakfield Street.

The reasons why this area tops the ranking for Christmas searches may not be all to do with an overflowing of the festive spirit, however, with many families needing to plan further in advance in order to be able to afford food and gifts over the expensive holiday period.

Rhondda Cynon Taf council are asking once again for donations to their Santa Appeal which every year sees thousands of toys and gift card vouchers donated to ensure that children in the area do not miss out at Christmas.

A tour or gift voucher can be donated from smythstoys here and one4all here. The closing date for donations is November 30.

“Our annual Santa Appeal is a way to bring people together, to spread festive cheer and to remember others,” Councillor Christina Leyshon, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said.

“There is nothing quite seeing a child smile on Christmas morning – and it is your generosity that allows this to happen in Rhondda Cynon Taf.”