National Eisteddfod returns to Rhondda Cynon Taf for the first time in 60 years

The countdown is on – there are just 100 days until the National Eisteddfod returns to Rhondda Cynon Taf for the first time in over 60 years!

A huge partnership operation is in place to ensure everyone has a great time at Europe’s largest cultural festival, which will be held in Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, Pontypridd August 3-10.

Overlooked by the ancient Rocking Stone on Pontypridd Common, where Iolo Morgannwg held the first Gorsedd Ceremony, the park will be filled with people of all ages enjoying the celebration of Welsh language, arts, culture and history.

From schoolchildren and artists to volunteers and world-famous choirs, the event will be filled with local and national talent, and a fascinating programme of art, singing, music, comedy, science and more.

With dedicated activities for children, a huge range of stalls and the very best of Welsh food and drink on sale, the Eisteddfod really is for everyone.

As well as the main event in Ynysangharad Park, places across Rhondda Cynon Taf are expected to get involved, with community events, local shows and lots of other great things to get involved with.

Welcoming so many visitors to the county borough – an estimated 100,000 people from across Wales travel to the Eisteddfod each year – also provides huge opportunities for local businesses and attractions.

Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and its partners have created a Give Welsh A Go leaflet, which details key Welsh phrases and words managers and their staff can use during Eisteddfod week and beyond.

Marco Orsi of Café Royale is one of the businesses looking forward to welcoming Eisteddfod visitors to his historic café and he received a copy of the guide from Cllr Rhys Lewis this week. He has a fluent Welsh language speaker in his café and will be working with them to adapt the menu for the week.

Cllr Rhys Lewis, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, Youth Participation and the Welsh Language, said: “the countdown really is on for Rhondda Cynon Taf to proudly host the largest cultural festival in Europe and we are beyond excited.

“We can’t wait to welcome visitors from across Wales to beautiful Ynysangharad War Memorial Park so they can enjoy the Eisteddfod but also the local culture, attractions and places to eat and visit.

“We are looking forward to giving residents the chance to enjoy an Eisteddfod on their doorstep, where people of all ages and interests can get involved in a unique experience.

“And we are excited to celebrate life in Rhondda Cynon Taf, ensuring the legacy of the Eisteddfod is one of pride in our culture, language and heritage.”

Make sure you are following Rhondda Cynon Taf on socials for the very latest news and information on how you can get involved in the celebrations.

Here are 10 things you can expect to enjoy:

1. The Pavilion honours Wales’ leading poets, writers and musicians, with competitions ranging from acting and dancing to brass bands and choirs. Simultaneous translation services are available for those who do not speak fluent Welsh.
2. The Gorsedd of the Bards ceremony takes place in the pavilion, with award-winners announced by druids dressed in flowing robes. The two main prizes are the Chair and the Crown. Winners are honoured with a range of performances, including a floral dance from local children. Early versions of this ceremony were held on Pontypridd Common, overlooking Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, by Iolo Morgannwg.
3. Maes B is the after-dark event aimed at a younger audience with the best Welsh pop, rock, indie and hip hop acts. This is a great way for young people to enjoy their first live festival.
4. You don’t have to be a fluent Welsh speaker to enjoy the Eisteddfod. If you do want to learn more, make sure you visit Maes D and have a chat with the experts. Don’t forget there is simultaneous translation at the main Maes events.
5. Over 20 show-stopping stages form part of the events, each dedicated to topics such as poetry, theatre, folk music and more.
6. Mas ar y Maes. This is where glitter meets the Gorsedd as the Eisteddfod work with the  LGBTQ+ community to put on a programme of events including Q&As, performances, readings, entertainment and more.
7. Every Eisteddfod has a Welsh food and drink street market where you can try some of the best burgers, cheese, pizza, vegan food and more. Of course there is also a bar area where you can enjoy Llantwit Fardre-made Gwynt Y Ddraig cider and more.
8. Pentre Plant is the area dedicated to children who want to learn and have fun. It’s packed with things to do, make and see, including den-building, tug of war, theatre performances and more.
9. Y Lle Celf is Wales’ biggest contemporary art exhibition in Wales and it takes place at ever Eisteddfod. There are arts and crafts to see, enjoy and purchase.
10. The atmosphere! Pontypridd and beyond will be ready to celebrate the Eisteddfod with shops, businesses and attractions all getting involved.