The history of our national festival can be traced back to 1176, with the first modern day Eisteddfod held in Aberdare in 1861.
Since then, the festival has alternated between north and south Wales, and has only been postponed three times in over 160 years, 1914, at the beginning of the First World War and 2020 and 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
We are a warm and welcoming family-friendly event, promoting the language and culture of Wales through a wide range of activities.
The Maes
The Eisteddfod site is known as the Maes and is home to the vast majority of events and activities throughout the week. We host 150 stands and stalls, with a wide range of organisations and businesses using the festival to sell, launch and promote their products. From Wales' largest universities and public sector organisations such as the Senedd and the local Health Boards to micro-local craft stalls, you'll find something for everyone on our colourful Maes.
Programme
We have a varied programme of events across the Maes from morning until late into the evening. These are held in our smaller pavilions around the Maes, and include our Literary Pavilion (for literature-based events), Ty Gwerin (folk music and traditions), Science and Technology Village (a wide range of STEMM activities to inspire people of all ages), our Children's Village (events and activities for pre-school and primary age children), our Open-air stage for music and bands and the Pavilion which is home to our renowned competitions programme.
Competitions
Competitions lie at the heart of our event, with over 5,000 groups and individuals taking part in almost 200 competitive events, from classical singing and performing to brass bands and from the much loved hymn singing for those aged over 60 to a wide range of choral competitions.
Our competitions are what sets us apart from other events and activities in Wales, and are the main reason many of our visitors attend the event.
Ceremonies
The Gorsedd ceremonies award the best writers and poets in Wales, and are held in our purpose-built Pavilion during the week. The Gorsedd also honours individuals who have contributed to their communities or to Wales nationally every year, with these colourful and spectacular ceremonies held in the open air on the Maes when the weather permits.
Notable names who have been honoured by the Gorsedd over recent years include rugby player George North, presenter Alex Jones, actors Ioan Gruffudd and Matthew Rhys, and former First Minister, Mark Drakeford.
Our visitors
Most of our visitors come to the Eisteddfod every year and plan their visit up to three months in advance. Most are confident or semi-confident Welsh speakers and learners.
The Eisteddfod is popular with all ages, particularly with those aged from 35-44 and 65+, emphasising our appeal to families.
Over 30% of our visitors see the Eisteddfod as an opportunity to practise their Welsh with almost 40% attending to support friends or family who are competing at the event.
Volunteers
We attract around 400 volunteers every year, to provide support and guidance to visitors across the Maes throughout the week.
