Public invited to join Urdd Eisteddfod countdown events

The Urdd Eisteddfod is set to take place Mathrafal Farm, near Meifod from May 27 to June 1 2024 but before that there is a week of events dotted around north Powys next month - and everyone's invited.

First up is the four-day bike challenge on July 11 from Machynlleth to Meifod with visits to primary schools in between, including a special guest appearance from none other than Mr Urdd.

Newtown will be hosting a parade from 10.30am to 3pm on Saturday, July 15, starting in the park then through the town centre, and an afternoon of fun with on-stage entertainment.

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Later on at 7.30pm there's a variety show - Noson Lawen - featuring some of Montgomeryshire's most talented entertainers at Llanfair Caereinion Leisure Centre. 

Concluding the week's celebrations will be the Cymanfa Ganu - an afternoon of singing Welsh hymns from 4pm at China Street Chapel.

Urdd Eisteddfod Maldwyn executive committee chair Bedwyr Fychan, who will be taking part in the bike challenge, said there's something for everybody.

"It’s going to be full and great to be part of and get people involved from all parts of the county," he said.

"It’s an event for the whole of Montgomeryshire – an event for everybody Welsh speaking, non-Welsh speaking or just a bit of Welsh – there will be a welcome for everybody."

Bedwyr and the organisers are encouraging people to help fundraise in their communities - from villages to towns - for next year's festival.

He said: "It’s the largest youth festival in Europe so to stage that event it does need quite a bit of money.

"We’ve got committees and groups all over the county. We definitely encourage people to join us and be part of that. If somebody wants to put an event on or contribute to any of the groups by all means we want everybody to be involved.

"It’s important to remember that every pound raised towards the Urdd there’s money going into the local economy.

"But more importantly is having the enthusiasm that comes with it and celebrating the opportunity that the Urdd brings, celebrating the Welsh language and the things we can do in our community to give our children the opportunity to do things in Welsh through the Urdd.

"There’s a lot of activities to raise money, but it's much more than that in bringing people together and the community spirit we need to stage the eisteddfod next year."

Siân Eirian, Director of the Urdd Eisteddfod and the Arts said: “The Urdd is looking forward to bringing the Eisteddfod back to Maldwyn in 2024. The Urdd Eisteddfod was last held in the area in 1988 and excitement is already being felt throughout the county.

“We’re grateful to Powys County Council and to all the volunteers for their commitment and enthusiasm. We look forward to working with the communities and volunteers of Maldwyn over the next twelve months as we prepare for a fantastic event in 2024.”

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