LLANWRTYD Wells isn't one to be outshone during the summer months, and while larger towns have their carnivals, the one traditionally known as the smallest in the UK holds its own lively celebration on the last Saturday of June.
The festivities kick off well before the main event, with a week packed with fun activities for all ages.
The celebrations this year began with a quiz at the Stonecroft Inn. The winning team were festival committee members Ryan Brown, Lucas Evans and volunteer Matt Garret, who impressed with a score of 99 out of 120.
Next came the exciting return of the car treasure hunt, sponsored by Epynt Motor Club. Team Cari emerged victorious, solving a whopping 53 out of 53 clues correctly. On Friday evening, Bromsgrove Hall transformed into a disco for the children, a night filled with dancing and laughter.
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The main event, carnival day, took place on Saturday, June 29. Llanwrtyd's very own Samba band led the vibrant procession, followed by several colourful floats.
Reigning over the festivities were carnival king Logan Davies and queen Cari Jones-Evans, accompanied by their attendants Joseph Ward, Shae Hamer Evans and Ethan Nind – all recent primary school leavers.
The procession was a delightful mix of children, adults and local groups. Members of the vintage tractor club, Epynt Motor Club, classic car owners and bikers all joined the parade, alongside representatives from Dyfed Powys Police and Llanwrtyd Fire Station. Judges were on hand to select the best entries.
No carnival is complete without some good-natured competition. The ever-popular ‘welly wanging’ competition returned, bringing out everyone's inner athlete. Karl Arnold and Lyndsey Croker emerged victorious in the male and female categories respectively, with Toby Jones and Ellie Croker winners of the children's competition.
The week's festivities culminated in the legendary beer race, with a record-breaking 22 teams competing for the title.
Team Kev, Michael Davies and Dewi Jones, emerged victorious in the adult category. The youth race was won by Team Twinny, with Olly Protheroe and Charlie Croker at the helm. Toby Jones and Fraser Hope took home the special prize for best youth fancy dress and the adults’ winners were Peter Tyler and Georgia Clifton.
The race consisted of six beer stops and two challenges spread over a 1.5km course that weaved through local businesses in town.
The Llanwrtyd Wells Carnival/Festival committee was established in 1963 and is a dedicated group, but in recent years, a dynamic young team has taken the reins, working tirelessly to introduce new events alongside cherished classics like the beer race.
Throughout the year, the committee organises various events and fundraisers, including the duck race, Christmas craft fayre and a 200-club lottery. Last year's ‘Peaky Blinders’ race night was a resounding success, which people still talk about.
“We're building on the strong foundation laid by past members, but we also love to think outside the box,” said chairman Stuart Reed.
“Every year, we strive to offer something fresh and exciting to keep Llanwrtyd Wells buzzing.
“We believe in keeping things affordable, making it a fantastic and budget-friendly family day out.
“But the impact goes beyond carnival fun. We use the funds raised to support not just the carnival itself, but also local gems like the gardening club, among others, helping them keep our town looking beautiful.
“We also contribute to the dazzling and expensive Christmas lights and host a popular themed night. It's all about giving back to the community we love.”
All funds raised go directly back to the community, supporting local groups and ensuring the town twinkles each year at Christmas. Join the fun next year and experience the heart of Llanwrtyd.
A ‘Yellowstone’ themed night is scheduled for September 14. Get all the details on the Llanwrtyd Festival Facebook page.
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