During the first week of August, a vibrant celebration of Welsh language, music, poetry, and community unfolds in a field somewhere in Wales. This is the National Eisteddfod of Wales, a festival unlike any other in Europe. Today the Eisteddfod is an eight-day gathering held annually in different parts of Wales, attracting over 100,000 visitors and featuring more than 6,000 competitors. For Welsh speakers, learners and lovers of culture, the Eisteddfod offers a unique opportunity to become immersed in the living traditions of the Welsh language.
A Brief History of the Eisteddfod
The word Eisteddfod comes from the Welsh eistedd (to sit) and bod (to be), suggesting a gathering or sitting together. The tradition can be traced back to 1176, when Lord Rhys held a bardic competition at Cardigan Castle, inviting poets and musicians from across Wales and beyond. This early gathering laid the foundation for a cultural institution that would evolve over centuries.
The first official National Eisteddfod was held in 1861 in Aberdare, following a series of regional and national gatherings in the 18th and 19th centuries. At the heart of the Eisteddfod is the Gorsedd, or bardic circle, a tradition revived by Welsh antiquarian Iolo Morgannwg in the 1800s. The Gorsedd was created in 1791 on Primrose Hill here in London. Head to the top of Primrose Hill and you can find a plaque dedicated to Morgannwg and to this first meeting of the Gorsedd.
At the Eisteddfod you’ll see the Archdruid, the leader of the Gorsedd, processing with white, blue and green robed members of the bardic circle following behind. Winners of the prestigious writing and poetry competitions at the Eisteddfod are inaugurated into the Gorsedd and wear white robes. Blue robes are worn by individuals who have made a significant contribution to Wales in their field. Green robed members of the Gorsedd are those who have been admitted for having excelled in the arts, music, literature and other creative fields.
Welsh Learners at the Eisteddfod
If you're learning Welsh, the Eisteddfod is more than a cultural event—it’s a living classroom. The Maes D (Learners’ Village) is a dedicated space on the festival site where learners can attend workshops, meet other learners, and practise their Welsh in a friendly, supportive environment.
Organised by the National Centre for Learning Welsh, Maes D offers daily activities, informal chats, and even competitions for learners. Whether you're a beginner or fluent speaker, it’s a place to build confidence and celebrate progress.
In recent years, the Eisteddfod has seen a surge in participation from adult learners, many of whom take part in events, perform on stage, or simply enjoy the immersive experience. The festival’s inclusive atmosphere makes it an ideal setting for language acquisition through real-life interaction.
Welsh Words and Phrases You’ll Hear at the Eisteddfod
Navigating the Eisteddfod as a visitor or learner is easier when you’re familiar with some key Welsh terms. Here are a few you’re likely to encounter:
- Croeso – Welcome
- Maes – The festival site
- Maes D – The learners’ area (D stands for Dysgwyr, learners)
- Cadair / Cadeirio – Chair / Chairing (awarded to the best poet in strict metre)
- Coron / Coroni – Crown / Crowning (awarded for free verse poetry)
- Cystadleuaeth – Competition
- Beirniaid – Judges
- Enillydd / Enillwyr – Winner / Winners
- Cerdd – Poem
- Côr – Choir
- Y Fedal Ryddiaith – The Prose Medal
- Yr Orsedd – The Gorsedd of Bards (a ceremonial order associated with the Eisteddfod)
- Pafiliwn – Pavilion (main stage venue)
- Tocyn – Ticket
But the most important phrase you’ll hear is a oes heddwch? (Is there peace?). This is the cry the Archdruid makes to the audience assembled in the pafiliwn during the cadeirio ceremony. The audience shouts back heddwch! (peace) in unison before the winning bard is invited to sit on the cadair which symbolised their new place in the Gorsedd.
These words reflect the rich tapestry of Welsh culture and the central role of language in the festival’s identity. Even a few phrases can enhance your experience and help you connect with others on the Maes.
Why the Eisteddfod Matters
The Eisteddfod is more than a festival—it’s a celebration of identity, resilience, and creativity. It showcases the vitality of the Welsh language and celebrates the many creative outputs of Wales. For learners, it’s a chance to see the language in action, to hear it sung and spoken, and to feel part of the wider Welsh community.
This year the National Eisteddfod is taking place from 2-9 August in Wrexham, north Wales. You can find out more and buy tickets here.
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