Living Wales Magazine - Eisteddfod

The National Eisteddfod of Wales is one of the great festivals of the world,over 160,000 visitors every year. As Ebbw Vale prepares to welcome this year Living Wales takes a look at what it is all about.

DA TING back to 1176, the National Eisteddfod of Wales has been the cornerstone of Welsh tradition. An eclectic mixture of culture, music, visual arts and all kinds of activities for people of all ages, there is something for everyone on the Maes during the first week of August every year.

The Eisteddfod is a travelling festival which belongs to the people of Wales wherever they live, and this is an integral part of its appeal. The festival visits areas in north and South Wales alternately, and hosting the National Eisteddfod is a great boost for any area.

It is an ideal opportunity to promote and encourage people to use and learn Welsh locally, to take part in cultural activities in their area, and it is also a great opportunity to promote the region as a tourist destination. The economic effect on the area is huge, with the Eisteddfod contributing between 6-8 million to the local economy during the week.

The Eisteddfod is the home of literature, music, dance, recitation, theatre, visual arts, science and technology, and all types of culture in Wales, and although the festival only lasts for a week, the preparatory work, and the buzz surrounding the event and all its activities lasts for more than two years before the Eisteddfod. Many areas choose to continue organising events promoting the Welsh language and culture once the festival is over .