The coming months in Wales prove that there always is something to do at all times and for all people. So here is a list of events, which will surely leave you wanting more.
Machynlleth Comedy Festival : 01 – 03 May
Now in its sixth year, the Machynlleth Comedy Festival has quickly gained a reputation as a hidden gem, this year featuring as-seen-on-TV comedy acts such as Stewart Lee. Other acts in the star-studded line-up include Bec Hill and Alex Horne. The town is known for its quirky venues, which helps to make it popular with both the acts and audience alike.
Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza : 02 – 04 May
Over the May bank holiday weekend Llandudno will be packed full of Steam Engines and Victorian Musical Organs, Vintage Cars and Costumes, Curiosities & Sideshows, and people dressed as they were back in the Victorian days. This year’s entertainment includes The George Formby Entertainers, Absolute Magic Jay Gatling, HTC Entertainers, Mr Alexander’s Travelling Show and Voltini’s slideshow.
All Wales Boat Show : 08 – 10 May
The show, now in its fourth year, is a three day celebratory festival of all water-based activities and is unique to the region of Pwllheli on the stunning Llŷn Peninsula. You will discover a huge range of exhibitors, show events and activities where you can have a go too. It’s a must visit for any boat owner, water-sports lover or family looking for a great day out.
Dylan Day : 14 May
To build upon the legacy of the Dylan Thomas 100 Festival, Dylan Day was created. A new annual day of celebration in the name of Wales’ most famous literary son. It marks the date Under Milk Wood was first read on stage at The Poetry Centre in New York in 1953. The first year’s activity will centre on the publication of A Dylan Odyssey, a book featuring fifteen unique Dylan Thomas trails across Wales, London, Oxford and New York.
Welsh Highland Railway’s Rail Ale : 15 – 17 May
The Welsh Highland Railway Society’s eleventh Real Ale Festival, Rail Ale, will comprise an eclectic mix of a fine selection of real ales and ciders, even a beer specially brewed for the event by a local microbrewery, combined with a variety of music, fine food and of course steam hauled trains. There will be the usual wide selection of real ales from Wales, Welsh cider and perry, and even a Welsh-brewed lager available at the festival’s main site at Dinas.
Snowdonia Slateman Triathlon : 16 – 17 May
This trail triathlon is said to have achieved cult status in the four years it has been running, due to its excellent route and stunning views. There are two race options delivered over two days; the Full Slateman and the Slateman Sprint. brand new for 2015 is the Slateman Savage for those who are tough enough to tackle the whole Slateman weekend by completing the Sprint AND the Full. The race venue is the village of Llanberis at the foot of Snowdon which will also include the Anglesey Sandman Tri and Snowman Winter Tri.
Hay Festival : 21 – 31 May
The Hay Festival in Wales is a gathering in the staggering beauty of the Brecon Beacons National Park, which has brought together writers from around the world to debate and share stories. The Hay festival, founded in 1987, celebrates the written word attracting all types of writers from poets and scientists, lyricists and comedians, filmmakers, novelists, politicians, environmentalists and musicians to inspire, delight and entertain.
Welsh Perry and Cider Festival : 22 – 25 May
Now in its 14th year the Welsh Perry and Cider Festival returns for the third year at Caldicot Castle. The festival starts on Friday evening and ends on Monday with a day aimed at families, offering lots of fun and games. There will be live music and entertainment all weekend, and a huge selection of cider and perry to try.
Open Stoneskimming Championships : 24 May
Why not have a go and see how far you can bounce your stone across the water. There will be other stone themed events too, which should provide a cracking day-out in the heart of the Welsh Countryside, and the afternoon will also feature a “head to head” contest between Ron Long, the current British “Old Tosser” Champion, and Dougie Isaacs, the current World Champion.
Urdd National Eisteddfod : 25 – 30 May
This year’s Urdd National Eisteddfod will take place in Caerphilly. The Urdd National Eisteddfod is one of Europe’s largest youth touring festivals that attracts around 100,000 visitors each year. Over 15,000 children and young people will be competing during the Eisteddfod week in various competitions such as singing, dancing and performing. There is plenty of attractions for the whole family at the Eisteddfod from enjoying the competitions, to visiting the various stalls and exhibitors on site.