Wales’ calendar is packed with a wide variety of entertaining and indulgent festivals and events, starting with New Year’s Eve, which is hedonistically celebrated throughout the country, and continuing on to the cool, world-renowned summer music festivals including the Green Man.
New Year’s Eve
One of Wale’s busiest evenings sees people spilling out of pubs, clubs, and house parties on every street as they bring to a close the past 12 months and welcome in a new year. Cardiff, in particular, is a great place to celebrate, counting down the remaining seconds in the crowded city center.
National Eisteddfod Festival
A proud celebration of Welsh culture and language, Eisteddfod takes place every August in a different location each year. In addition to local music acts, the event hosts Welsh poetry readings, dances, and visual arts. It has been celebrated unofficially and officially for centuries and stands as a reminder of the unique and compelling aspects of the culture in Wales.
Green Man Music Festival
One of the UK’s up-and-coming music festivals, Green Man is held every August to the beautiful backdrop of the Brecon Beacons’ Black Mountains. The event draws thousands of festival-goers every year, in addition to some of the top names in popular music. Ideal for families, it’s a great event which offers much more than just music.
Great British Cheese Festival
Held in the glorious Cardiff Castle, this party offers guests the chance to try more than 450 different types of cheeses from around the British Isles with a tasty array of beers, ciders, and wines to wash it down. It’s a great place to experience local Welsh cuisine with a range of traditional dishes and modern servings to stimulate your appetite.
Cardiff Half Marathon
One of the top half marathons in the United Kingdom, this enthralling road race takes place in the capital of Wales every October. Due to the relatively flat course, the marathon is ideal for beginners, so if you fancy an energetic day during your vacation, this riveting run may be perfect. Make sure to book in advance if you want to participate though, as the event sells out rather quickly.
Halloween
The perfect excuse to dress up and act like a child for the night, Halloween sees plenty of establishments around Wales throw fancy costume parties. Indulge in your fair share of zombies, ghosts, and werewolves and crawl through the city streets until the wee hours of the night on October 31st.