Will Glantwymyn Shine as Host for the 2027 National Eisteddfod?

The National Eisteddfod, Wales' largest cultural festival, is set to return to Powys in 2027 for a week-long celebration of music, language, and performance, marking the festival's first appearance in the county since 2009. The event promises to engage communities from across Powys and south Meirionnydd, providing ample opportunities for locals of all ages to participate in various activities leading up to the festival.

Last updated: 20 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The announcement regarding the return of the National Eisteddfod to Powys was made during a public meeting in Glantwymyn, where over 100 residents gathered to learn about the plans. Organisers highlighted that this year's festival will not only focus on traditional performances but will also involve local communities in creating a vibrant atmosphere. With thousands of visitors expected, the festival is set to be a significant event for the region, showcasing Welsh culture and offering an array of activities for all ages.

Key takeaways

The National Eisteddfod will return to Powys in 2027.
This will be the first time the festival has been hosted in Powys since 2009.
The event aims to involve local communities and engage residents across all ages.
Preparations will begin immediately, with the first meeting scheduled for Saturday at Ysgol Bro Hyddgen in Machynlleth.
Thousands of visitors are expected to attend the week-long celebration.

Timeline: how we got here

Here's a brief timeline of key events leading to the announcement of the National Eisteddfod's return to Powys:

2009: The last National Eisteddfod held in Powys.
October 2023: Announcement made at a public meeting in Glantwymyn regarding the festival's return in 2027.
October 2023: Initial preparations and community engagement efforts to begin immediately.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The significant news is the confirmation of the National Eisteddfod's return to Powys, which has not hosted the festival for 18 years. The announcement has sparked excitement within the community, highlighting the inclusive approach organisers plan to take, encouraging participation from local residents.

What was already established

The National Eisteddfod is a longstanding celebration of Welsh language and culture, involving competitions in poetry, music, and performance. It traditionally draws thousands of visitors and has a reputation for fostering community spirit and cultural pride.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The return of the National Eisteddfod is likely to have a positive economic impact on local communities, with increased visitor numbers boosting local businesses. Residents can expect enhanced community engagement and opportunities to showcase their talents across various cultural activities.

Businesses and jobs

Local businesses in Powys and the surrounding areas can anticipate a surge in trade as thousands flock to the festival. This influx may also create temporary job opportunities in hospitality, retail, and event management sectors, contributing to the local economy.

Policy and regulation

Powys County Council will oversee preparations for the festival, signalling a commitment to supporting local culture and community initiatives. The council is likely to engage in consultations to ensure the event runs smoothly and meets the needs of the community.

Numbers that matter

18 years: The gap since the last National Eisteddfod was hosted in Powys.
100+ residents: Attended the public meeting in Glantwymyn where the announcement was made.
Thousands: Expected visitors to the festival in 2027.
1: The number of initial preparatory meetings scheduled at Ysgol Bro Hyddgen.

Definitions and jargon buster

National Eisteddfod: An annual festival of Welsh literature, music, and performance celebrating Welsh culture and language.
Powys: A county in Wales known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Glantwymyn: A village in Powys, where the recent announcement was made.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the coming weeks, the Powys County Council will initiate community engagement activities to gather input and ideas for the festival. Residents are encouraged to participate in planning meetings and express their interest in volunteering or competing.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As preparations ramp up, organisers will likely announce competitions, artistic collaborations, and event schedules. Community projects may begin to take shape, providing opportunities for local talent to shine.

Signals to watch

Dates for community meetings and competitions.
Announcements regarding participating artists and performers.
Updates from Powys County Council regarding logistics and planning.

Practical guidance

Do

Engage with local councils to stay informed about preparations.
Participate in community meetings to express ideas and concerns.
Consider volunteering or competing if you have relevant skills or talents.

Don’t

Ignore opportunities for community involvement.
Overlook the importance of local businesses in supporting the festival.
Assume the festival will be just for a select few; it’s open to everyone.

Checklist

Stay updated on meeting schedules and festival plans.
Identify skills or talents you can share during the festival.
Engage with local businesses to explore partnership opportunities.
Encourage others in your community to get involved.
Support local cultural initiatives as the festival approaches.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the announcement offers excitement for the return of the National Eisteddfod, uncertainties remain regarding logistical challenges and how the festival will adapt to changing community needs. There may be concerns about funding and resource allocation, which could affect the scale of the event. It is essential for organisers to remain flexible and responsive to community feedback as plans progress.

Bottom line

The return of the National Eisteddfod to Powys in 2027 is a promising development for Welsh culture, offering a platform for local talent and fostering community spirit. As preparations begin, it presents an opportunity for residents and businesses to engage and benefit from this significant cultural celebration.

FAQs

What is the National Eisteddfod?

The National Eisteddfod is an annual celebration of Welsh language and culture, featuring competitions in literature, music, and performance. It serves as a platform for showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Wales.

When will the National Eisteddfod take place in Powys?

The National Eisteddfod is scheduled to return to Powys in 2027, marking its first appearance in the county since 2009.

How can local residents get involved in the festival preparations?

Local residents can participate in festival preparations by attending community meetings, volunteering for various roles, and entering competitions that will be announced as the event approaches.