Get ready for a celebration of language, art, and community—National Eisteddfod 2025 takes place from 2–9 August in Is-y-coed, just 5 miles from Wrexham city centre.

What Is the National Eisteddfod?

Rooted in centuries-old traditions, the Eisteddfod is a celebration of Welsh language, music, literature, performance, and identity. It blends ancient customs with modern creativity — from the mystical Gorsedd y Beirdd ceremonies, which honour contributors to Welsh culture, to contemporary gigs at Maes B, where up-and-coming Welsh bands play into the night.

You might hear a choir singing traditional hymns in one corner and stumble upon a techno remix of Sosban Fach in another. There’s space for art exhibitions, poetry slams, craft showcases, book launches, political debates, and spirited conversations in cafés over bara brith and artisan coffee.

A Gathering Rich in History & Heritage

The Eisteddfod isn’t just a festival—it’s a living legacy. Its roots stretch back to 1176, when Lord Rhys held a bardic contest at Cardigan Castle, inviting poets and musicians from across Wales. That moment laid the foundation for a centuries-old tradition of honouring the Welsh language, poetry, and music.

The modern National Eisteddfod was officially founded in 1861 in Aberdare. Since then, it has travelled across Wales every year, bringing communities together in celebration of their shared heritage. In 2025, it returns to North East Wales, drawing an expected 160,000+ visitors for what promises to be one of the cultural highlights of the year.

The Maes: Heart of the Festival

All events unfold at the Maes, a vibrant temporary village buzzing with energy. It’s home to pavilions, artisan markets, performance stages, art exhibitions, food villages, and more. Expect something for every age and interest.

Highlights include:

🎪 The Pavilion The beating heart of the festival—home to prestigious competitions in poetry, music, and drama. All conducted in Welsh, with translation available for visitors.

🌿 Gorsedd Ceremonies Watch the stirring Chairing of the Bard and Crowning of the Bard, where top poets are honoured in a grand ceremony featuring traditional Druidic robes and ancient ritual.

📘 Maes D A space dedicated to Welsh learners, offering language workshops, meetups, social events, and translation help.

🎶 Maes B Catch the pulse of Welsh youth culture with high-energy live music performances, all in the Welsh language.

🖼️ Y Lle Celf Europe’s largest temporary art exhibition, showcasing contemporary Welsh talent across visual arts, sculpture, and multimedia.

🏡 Ty Gwerin, Pentref Plant, and more Immerse yourself in Welsh folk traditions, bring the kids to creative play zones, or relax in shaded food courts with local delicacies.

What to Expect in 2025

From sunrise to starlight, you’ll find:

Over 6,000 competitors
Hundreds of performances, talks, and workshops
Live shows, music, family zones, and community events
Inspiring exhibitions and creative showcases

Wrexham’s vibrant spirit is already shining—and the 2025 Eisteddfod promises to be unforgettable.

Why Wrecsam?

Wrexham previously hosted the Eisteddfod in 2011, and its return reflects the region’s deep-rooted community engagement and rich Welsh heritage. Is-y-coed, the festival site, is both picturesque and practical—just minutes from the town centre, with improved transport plans, including shuttle buses to enhance accessibility and reduce walking distances.

Getting There from Across Wales

Wherever you’re travelling from—Cardiff, Swansea, Bangor, Aberystwyth, or Llandudno—reaching the National Eisteddfod in Wrexham is easy and scenic with Transport for Wales. The nearest station is Wrexham General, located just 5 miles from the Eisteddfod Maes in Is-y-coed. To ease traffic, one-way directions will be in place on some lanes approaching the Maes, with clear yellow signs guiding you to the car park and plenty of stewards on hand.

The Eisteddfod is actively encouraging sustainable travel—an accessible shuttle bus will operate from 8 AM to midnight, running between Wrexham General, King Street Bus Station, and the Maes. Full travel details are available on both the Eisteddfod website and the Transport for Wales journey planner.

To make your trip even smoother, book Advance tickets for TfW network with JurnyOn—our platform offers stackable discounts, digital tickets, and EcoPoints with every ride. It’s the easiest way to plan and enjoy your Eisteddfod adventure.

So, whether you’re a lifelong Welsh speaker, a curious traveller, or a learner discovering the magic of “Cymru” for the first time — the Eisteddfod awaits.

From the smell of Welshcakes in the air to the sound of harp strings and the sight of colourful banners waving in the breeze, Llanelli this August will be nothing short of magical.

See you on the Maes!

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