When you’re in Wales you won’t be short of things for you to do, what with the endless choice of dazzling scenery, quaint towns and stunning beaches. But while you’re here, why not find some time to pop over to a festival or event and try something new? There’s plenty on offer, and we guarantee you’ll enjoy yourself.
We’ve done the hard work for you and compiled a list of the top North Wales events planned so far for 2017 – all you need to do is take your pick and enjoy!
How about one of North Wales’ biggest musical festivals?
Llangollen International Music Festival, 3-9 July
If you want to experience real Welsh culture, then one of the North Wales events that you can’t miss is the eisteddfod – it’s origins date back to 1943! Singers and dancers from around the world compete in the competition during the day, followed by concerts and performances each evening. Over five thousand entertainers perform from around 50 countries perform at the event each year.
Passes for the festival are sold on a first come first serve basis, so if it’s something you’re interested in, it’s best to book soon.
Glass Butter Beach, Abersoch, 19-21 August
This festival evolved from an underground wakeboarding event, and has turned into one of the world’s biggest wakeboarding festivals. Mixing live music with wakeboarding and surfing, it’s certainly a unique experience. While you’re there, you can even take part in different sports, including volleyball and stand up paddleboarding.
The 2017 lineup is due to be announced in February – so keep your eyes peeled and keep checking the website!
Festival No.6, Portmeirion, 7-10 September
The annual art and music festival at Portmeirion is celebrating its 6th birthday in 2017. You can expect a impressive range of music, from folk and rock, to house and techno.
Experience being part of the crowd on the mainstage, or watch a more intimate, personal gig from a local band. The lineup is yet to be announced, but last year’s festival go-ers were lucky enough to see the likes of Bastille, Lucy Rose and the Kaiser Chiefs. We expect that 2017 will be just as amazing – this is one of the North Wales events that you definitely don’t want to miss!
Or maybe a food festival?
Menai Seafood Festival, Menai Bridge, August TBC
If you love seafood then this one’s for you! The Menai Bridge event celebrates the abundance of quality seafood available from the shores of Anglesey and North Wales – which we are so lucky to have on our doorstep.
The not-for-profit event is a firm favourite on the North Wales events food calendar. You’ll be able to see cooking demonstrations, arts and crafts, and music, as well as a local produce market to stock up on some tasty local seafood.
Festival dates will be released soon, in the meantime checkout the website.
Gwledd Conwy Feast, October TBC
This food fest is set in the medieval town of Conwy, and continues to be an extremely popular event amongst locals and tourists alike. Although dates have not been confirmed for 2017, the event usually kicks off on a Friday night with a fireworks event and music acts.
The celebration continues over a weekend, and boasts over 100 food stalls as well as cookery sessions and demonstrations. The tickets are great value, too – passes have cost under £14 in recent years, and give you access to an entire weekends entertainment.
To keep up to date with festival news click here.
And there’s always something for history lovers in Wales
CADW Summer of Storytelling, across Wales, Summer 2017
2017 is the Year of Legends and CADW’s Summer of Storytelling is one of many nationwide events celebrating our country’s rich heritage and culture. The programme aims to raise awareness of the importance of storytelling in our lives and means that numerous storytelling events will take place across the country next year, celebrating the heroes of our past.
The Tournament, Conwy, 24-25 June
If you love history or are a fan of TV shows like Game of Thrones or Vikings, make your way to the walled town of Conwy for an unmissable medieval event in June. Experience life in the past at this unique living history event!
Rub shoulders with knights, nobles, archers, vikings and jesters as an army of re-enactors descend upon the walled town for the weekend. The Tournament is brand new for 2017 and we think Conwy is the perfect backdrop to such an exciting event. Best of all – it’s completely free!
Last but not least, something to thrill sports fans
All Wales Boat Show, Conwy Marina, 9-11 June
The festival of water-based activities return to Conwy Marina this year. If you love watersports, are a boat owner, or just fancy a family-friendly day out, it’s a great way to spend a day. The show has maritime exhibitors plus loads of activities to join in with.
Click here for more information.
Wales Rally GB, North and Mid Wales, 26-29 October
The Wales Rally GB is the most high profile and largest motor rally event in the UK. This three day event sees drivers take on a series of tracks and challenges across North and Mid Wales, competing against the clock for the fastest time.
Spectator passes are available for either the full four day event or if you’d prefer, you can purchase a one day pass for a day of your choice. Whether or not you enjoy motorsports, it’s an exciting event full of adrenalin and anticipation – definitely worth a visit.
Image courtesy of: Arturo Donate via Flickr
