Eisteddfod essentials

Check out our handy guide to find out more about the National Eisteddfod of Wales and what to expect when you get there.

The Eisteddfod is the largest cultural event of its kind in Europe

What is the Eisteddfod?

The National Eisteddfod is a large Welsh language cultural festival that takes place annually, alternating between north and south Wales. It's the largest cultural festival of its kind in Europe, and a key event in the Welsh calendar.

It's a mixture of daily talent competitions and evening concerts, gigs, plays and exhibitions. Competitions in the main pavilion vary from dance to recitation, singing to brass bands.

When does it happen?

The National Eisteddfod takes place annually during the first week of August. This year, the Eisteddfod will be in full swing between 3-10 August.

Where is it held?

The Eisteddfod this year is being held in the Ynysangharad War Memorial Park in Pontypridd town centre.

Who's it for?

Everyone's welcome! You'll receive a warm welcome at the Eisteddfod, regardless of whether or not you can speak Welsh.

As a celebration of Welsh culture, Welsh is the official language of the Eisteddfod, but a translation service is available.

If you require a translating kit you can just pick one up as you arrive at the Maes.

You can also check out our handy list of Eisteddfod words and phrases here. But remember you can still enjoy arts, crafts, music and dance and soak up the atmosphere, without an in-depth knowledge of the language.

What to expect

The Eisteddfod annually attracts on average more than 150,000 visitors a week. The main field is known as the Maes and the main pavilion is the hub of the festival where the music, dance, poetry and recitation competitions are held.

Competing draws to a close at around 4.30pm most afternoons for the main ceremonies to take place. These include: the Crowning (best work in free verse) on Monday, Daniel Owen memorial prize (best unpublished Welsh novel) on Tuesday, the Prose Medal on Wednesday, and Friday sees the Chairing of the winning poet.

Around the Maes and beyond

There is also a pavilion for music, dance and theatre performances, arts and crafts exhibitions, a literature pavilion, an area for Welsh learners to hone their language skills, fun activities to keep the kids entertained as well as trade stands and exhibitors. There are also plenty of food stalls on the Maes and also a bar.

There's evening entertainment at the Eisteddfod - both in the main pavilion and in other local venues. These include plays, concerts and performances by local groups. If it's bands you're after, head to Maes B.