Wales is home to a plethora of music festivals and other events for locals and visitors to enjoy. They range from quintessential festivals, with all the big names and bigger hangovers, to quaint gatherings and niche musical celebrations. Whatever your taste in music, and whatever kind of event you’re looking for, Wales has something fantastic to offer!
The variety of music festivals on offer in Wales reflects the country’s rich and diverse musical heritage. Remember, this is the home of everyone from Tom Jones, Shirley Bassey and Katherine Jenkins to Cerys Matthews, Charlotte Church and Bonnie Tyler – not to mention bands like the Manic Street Preachers and Catfish and the Bottlemen.
Like the sound of those acts? In It Together is one for fans of big names and chart music, held annually in Port Talbot. Elsewhere, Ebbw Vale is home to the nation’s biggest rock festival, Steelhouse. Fancy a rave? Head to Escape in Swansea. And there’s no prizes for guessing what kind of acts you’ll find at Brecon Jazz Festival!
If you want to jump into the local culture, try the International Musical Eisteddfod in Llangollen, which began as a way to welcome members of governments-in-exile. There’s also the Welsh Language Music Day – or Dydd Miwsig Cymru – which celebrates all forms of Welsh language music.
It’s not just the genre that varies. Wales has music events in a variety of different locations. Head north to Anglesey for Gottwood Festival or as far south as Barry Island for the GlastonBARRY tribute festival. In between the two, you’ll find plenty of stunning locations for music events throughout Pembrokeshire, Brecon, Snowdonia and the Cardigan coast.
Whether you want to camp for the weekend or visit for the day, you’ll find the perfect fit in Cymru from spring through to autumn. Top that off with some delicious food, great drinks and a truly unforgettable atmosphere – and you’ll see exactly why Wales’ music events are some of the best in the world!
Want all the latest updates about upcoming local events, dates for future festivals and highlights of all the best music in Wales? You can find it right here at Wales.org. Most importantly, we’re always on the lookout to expand our horizons. If you’re running an event and can’t see it listed, don’t hesitate to get in touch and submit your festival.