About National Eisteddfod of Wales
The National Eisteddfod of Wales is the country's largest festival of Welsh language culture. It is held every August for eight days and moves to a different part of Wales each year, alternating broadly between north and south. The organisers describe it as Europe's largest touring festival, with more than 1,000 events on the Maes, the festival field.
The modern National Eisteddfod traces its organisation to 1860, although eisteddfodau, gatherings for poetry and music competitions, have a much longer history in Wales. At the heart of the week are competitions in poetry, prose, singing, choirs, instrumental music, dance, drama and visual arts, with around 6,000 competitors taking part. The ceremonies of the Gorsedd, including the Crowning and the Chairing of the Bard, are among the best-known moments. The 1917 Chairing, when the chair was awarded posthumously to Hedd Wyn, killed in the First World War, remains one of the most famous episodes in its history.
Beyond the competitions, the Maes hosts gigs, a science and technology area, art exhibitions, a literature pavilion, food stalls and a Welsh learners' area. Evening concerts and the Maes B youth music event draw large crowds. More than 100,000 visitors usually attend, and the 2024 festival in Pontypridd attracted around 186,000.
The 2026 Eisteddfod ran from 1 to 8 August in Llantwd, north Pembrokeshire.
The 2027 National Eisteddfod will be held in Maldwyn Meirionnydd, on the banks of the River Dyfi near Machynlleth, from 31 July to 7 August 2027. Exact site details and ticket prices are published nearer the time.
Visitors do not need to speak Welsh. The Eisteddfod offers bilingual signage and simultaneous translation of many events through wireless headphones, and many events welcome learners and newcomers. Exact details of the Maes and travel arrangements for the Machynlleth area will be shared by the organisers before the festival. Camping and caravan fields are usually set up near the Maes for those staying the week.
Frequently asked
When is the National Eisteddfod 2027?
31 July to 7 August 2027.
Where is it?
In Maldwyn Meirionnydd, on the banks of the River Dyfi near Machynlleth.
Do I need to speak Welsh?
No. Simultaneous translation is offered through wireless headphones for many events.
What happens at the Eisteddfod?
Competitions in poetry, music, dance and art, the Gorsedd ceremonies, concerts, exhibitions and more than 1,000 events.
Contact the festival
Last verified 2026-10-20. Dates, prices and lineups change — always confirm on the official festival site before booking.