Organisers of the Urdd Eisteddfod have revealed that the 2024 event in Montgomeryshire saw a record-breaking number of competitors.
As thousands of people visited the fields of Mathrafal Farm in Maldwyn between May 27 and June 1, the Urdd celebrated a record-breaking 100,454 registering to compete in over 400 competitions, including more Welsh learners than ever.
With the massive festival wrapped up for another year, organisers of the event have thanked their 5,000 strong volunteer force who helped put the event together, as well as their hosts in Maldwyn.
Llio Maddocks, Director of the Arts, Urdd Gobaith Cymru said: “On behalf of the Urdd I would like to thank all the people of Maldwyn for the welcome we have received throughout the week as well as their enthusiasm over the years, to fundraise and create excitement for the Eisteddfod’s arrival in Powys.
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“I would also like to give a special thanks to the 5,000 volunteers who have helped make this Eisteddfod a reality, and to all the teachers and leaders for teaching our young competitors.
"Thanks to their dedication and enthusiasm, thousands of children and young people have been given the chance to compete, enjoy and make life-long memories.
“Eisteddfod yr Urdd is a cultural highlight of our Welsh calendar, and festivals such as ours deserve to be enjoyed by all.
“Ensuring opportunities and experiences for competitors and visitors who are new Welsh speakers is crucial to the success and legacy of our youth festival. We look forward with confidence to Eisteddfod yr Urdd Dur a Môr at Margam Park, Neath Port Talbot in 2025.”
Cadi Glwys Davies from Moelfre, Maldwyn was the recipient of this year's Eisteddfod Scholarship, awarded to the most promising competitor in the age category Year 10 to under 19.
Cadi has had a successful week in several competitions, including the Solo folk dance, Monologue, and as a coach to brand-new traditional dance groups. She also starred in the Eisteddfod’s Youth Show on Sunday evening.
As well as the three Pavilions in which children and young people from Wales and beyond were competing, several activities were enjoyed by all ages at the festival.
Several developments were also introduced this year to ensure that the festival’s site and activities were fully accessible and inclusive after consulting with disability and accessibility experts.
Next year, Eisteddfod yr Urdd will be held at Margam Park, Neath Port Talbot between 26 and 31 May 2025.
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