Alice Edmonds
06 February 2019
Whether you’re after a small, secluded adventure, or a cultural delight like no other, there’s no denying that Wales is home to some of the best festivals the UK has to offer. With spectacular scenery a given, this delightful country is the perfect place to experience exquisite food and music and to interact with a heap of inspiring people from far and wide.
The only problem? Choosing which ones to attend! So, we have rounded up six of the most magical festivals in Wales happening this year to help you narrow down your list.
Furthermore, if the thought of reams of mud-filled tents puts you off (we don’t blame you!) then do check out our selection of Welsh holiday cottages. Stay authentic and adventurous with a characterful shepherds hut or indulge in a luxuriously cosy cottage – whichever you choose, you will not regret the soft sheets and warm bath welcoming you at the end of each fun-filled day.
When: May
Where: Hay-on-Wye, Hereford
As the world’s largest philosophy and music festival, this year How The Light Gets In festival features over 200 events, 80 debates and 100 music and performance events. Not about status or celebrity, this festival celebrates being individual and aspires to create a space where people’s dreams and imaginations can run wild. Brimming with opportunity and fascination you will have the opportunity to discover some of the finest musical talent and hear ground-breaking ideas on topics you never even knew existed. So, what are you waiting for? Get involved!
Where to stay nearby:
For those who are after a feel-good festival: The Big Retreat
When: May
Where: Pembrokeshire
No do not fear, this festival isn’t all yoga and green juices! In their very own words, The Big Retreat is ‘as much about an icy gin and tonic, as it is a yoga class’ – now that’s what we like to hear… balance! With everything from Kickboxing and Pilates to Spoon Carving and Gin Making the only thing that will disappoint you is this: eventually you’ll have to go home. With an unpretentious, cosy atmosphere, and majestic surroundings steeped in history you’ll return feeling refreshed, inspired and revitalized.
Where to stay nearby:
For those who fancy something small: Fforest Gather
When: August
Where: Cilgerran, Pembrokeshire
If you have not yet ventured into the world of festivals, then Fforest Gather is the perfect way to ease you in. With only 300 tickets available per week, Fforest Farm makes the perfect home for a gathering centred around the great outdoors and activities for the mind, body and soul.
By day, be inspired by the plethora of workshops, talks and performances including everything from painting and writing to chocolate and sausage making! By night, the magical scenery comes to life with storytelling, tastings and disk spinning, or if you fancy a wander, then their very own pizza restaurant can be found just a short drive down the road in Cardigan. With limited tickets available, this is one to book as soon as possible.
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For those who wish they were still in the Scouts: Green Man
When: August
Where: Crickhowell, Brecon Beacons
For the fire-making, nature-watching, outdoor adventurer, Green Man Festival is a must. Set within miles and miles of mountains, forests and waterfalls this festival is the perfect way to explore the beautiful Welsh countryside.
Sip on crisp Welsh cider and munch on a spicy Dragon sausage bap knowing that every supplier and provider in your surroundings has been sourced locally – and with special discounts on local heritage sites and galleries throughout your stay, extend that support beyond the settlement and go explore the very best of Wales.
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For those who want to celebrate all things Welsh: National Eisteddfod
When: August
Where: Llanrwst, Conwy
First held in 1176, Eisteddfod is a big celebration of the rich culture and language infused throughout Wales. Traditionally a competition-based festival attracting over 6,000 competitors every year, it is now a hub of events and activities designed to suit every member of the family.
Tickets are available from April and the full programme will be available online from May, so whether you just want to experience some true Welsh cuisine or enter one of their hundreds of competitions be sure to grab a spot at this years Eisteddfod.
Where to stay nearby:
When: September
Where: Hawarden, Flintshire
Founded by four friends who yearned for simpler times, The Good Life Experience is a celebration of all things ‘back in the day’. An all-encompassing experience, there is exquisite food, mass sing-a-longs, comedy, talks by explorers and much more! If it fits with the founder’s idea of The Good Life then it is sure to be included.
And not limited to the superficial elements, the atmosphere is inclusive, exciting and diverse with everything as applicable to adults as it is to children. Our favourite bit? There is no VIP tent meaning all performers are happy to meet the guests and mingle together.
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Camping not your thing? Then do check out our diverse range of Welsh holiday cottages to make your adventure just that extra bit more special.
Plus if you’re a true foodie at heart and want to keep exploring what Wales has to offer, then check out our round up of some of the best food festivals to attend in Wales too. Visiting in spring or summer, we've put together a list of what's happening each season to help plan your trip.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.