Beginners Guide To The National Eistedfodd Wales

The Eistedfodd is coming to Abergavenny next month and if you’re planning on taking a trip to this event filled with culture, fun activities and competitions, then here’s the answers to questions we’ve been asking.

What is the Eistedfodd?

The Eistedfodd is held during the first week of August every year, this is a celebration of the culture and language in Wales. The festival travels from place to place, alternating between North and South Wales and began in 1176. It attracts around 150,000 visitors and over 250 tradestands and stalls.

Traditionally this is a competition-based festival, attracting over 6,000 competitors every year, the festival has developed and evolved over recent years, and whilst the competitions form the central focus for the week, the Maes (site) itself has grown and developed into a vibrant festival with hundreds of events and activities for the whole family. The event now showcases music, dance, visual arts, literature, original perfomances and much more.  

What can we expect on a typical day at the event?

When you visit the Eistedfodd you can expect a large site filled with lots of interesting stalls, activities, shows and competitions that run throughout the week embracing all things Welsh. You'll get to learn more about welsh culture and meet many interesting people.

Is it only for Welsh speakers?

Encompassing all aspects of the arts and culture in Wales, it is an inclusive and welcoming festival, which attracts thousands of Welsh learners and those who do not speak the language as well as Welsh speakers every year.  Translation services are available in the Pavilion and bilingual information is available.  They also have a centre for learning Welsh on the Maes too.

Welsh language basics to keep handy if you’re attending the Eistedfodd:

Hello - helo

How are you - sut wyt ti

I don’t speak Welsh - dydw i ddim yn siarad Cymraeg

Thank you - diolch

Please - os gwelwch yn dad

How can I find out more?

To find out more about the event visit the National Eistedfodd of Wales website here