Across Southern Wales there are loads of events - from rugby internationals to food festivals, from Welsh cultural events to modern performances.
Year-Round Events across Southern Wales
Southern Wales buzzes with spectacular events perfect for groups throughout the year; from electrifying rugby internationals at the Principality Stadium to vibrant food festivals, rich Welsh cultural celebrations like the Eisteddfod, and dynamic modern performances. Here are some of our top seasonal recommendations to inspire unforgettable group itineraries!
Event highlights
Southern Wales is filled with great, imaginative events throughout the year. The calendar changes each year, so here are some of the regular events across the seasons:
January - March
- As well as Valentines Day, we also celebrate St Dwynwen’s Day, the Welsh patron saint of love, on 25 January.
- The rugby internationals take place in February and March each year.
- St David’s Day, our patron saint, is celebrated each 1st March – you’ll find events in theatres, town centres and in businesses throughout the area, focusing on food, music and traditions.
April – June
- Easter events take place around the region – lots of egg hunts at attractions like Tredegar House and Park, Dyffryn Gardens and A Welsh Coal Mining Experience: Rhondda Heritage Park.
- Usk Open Gardens (featuring around 20 private gardens) takes place at the end of June when gardens are looking their very best.
July - September
- Glastonbarry Tribute Festival takes place in Barry each July.
- Music fills the valleys each July when Steelhouse Festival brings rock bands from around the UK and further afield to the hills above Ebbw Vale.
- Abergavenny Food Festival takes place each September, and the Caerphilly Cheese Festival takes place in August.
- Each summer there is a programme of international music across Cardiff outdoor venues – including Cardiff Castle and Principality Stadium.
- Each September heritage sites across Wales take visitors behind the scenes as part of the Open Doors Festival. This year the programme includes country churches, archives and even the Royal Mint.
October – December
- The Newport Food Festival takes place in October.
- Caerphilly Christmas celebrations including the River of Light Lantern Parade takes place in December.
- There are lots of Christmas events across Cardiff from mid November including light events and Christmas market.
- On New Years Eve the Nos Galan Road Races takes place in Mountain Ash commemorating the legendary Welsh runner Guto Nyth Bran.
- There are always great shows at theatres like the Millennium Centre and New Theatre in Cardiff, The Riverfront, Newport and at the smaller theatres across the region.
Events calendar
Troubled Waters
What lies beneath the surface of our rivers? Join storyteller Corinne Harragin for Troubled Waters, a captivating spoken-word performance weaving together ancient folklore, mythology and contemporary stories of our waterways.
October
The Mighty Goddess
Bewitching spoken-word from goddess of storytelling Sally Pomme Clayton. Sly, subversive, spectacular stories mix myth, memory, comedy, ceremony, spells and song.
October
Dr Martin Shaw - The Other Folk: Fairy Tales and the Occasional Encounter
Be prepared to be transported into a world of fairy tales, folklore, myth and mystery as master storyteller, mythologist and New York Times bestselling author Dr Martin Shaw brings his extraordinary storytelling to the Savoy Theatre, Monmouth.
October
Cardiff Half Marathon
The Cardiff Half Marathon is one of the UK's biggest and best-supported road races, attracting thousands of runners to the Welsh capital each year. With its fast, flat route passing iconic landmarks and incredible crowd support, it's an unforgettable event for runners of all abilities. 04/10/2026
October
Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival
The Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival brings some of the best LGBTQ+ short and feature films from around the world to Cardiff. The friendly and vibrant festival celebrates diverse storytelling through film screenings, special events and awards. 12-18/10/2026
October
Sŵn Festival
Cardiff comes alive with three days of live music as Sŵn Festival returns this October. With more than 150 artists appearing at venues across the city, it's a great opportunity to enjoy familiar favourites and discover plenty of new music along the way. 15-17/10/2026
October
Ty Hafan Dark Run 2026
Light up the night and support a fantastic cause at the Tŷ Hafan Dark Run in Cardiff's beautiful Bute Park. This family-friendly evening event brings together runners, walkers and supporters for a fun-filled experience with a glowing Halloween twist. 17/10/2026
October
Calan Gaeaf at Dyffryn Gardens
This October half term, uncover the magic of the Tylwyth Teg (Welsh fairies) at Dyffryn Gardens. Join us to mark the turn of the seasons and celebrate Calan Gaeaf, with a touch of Halloween spirit. 23/10-01/11/2026
October
Chepstow Autumn Walking Festival
Chepstow Autumn Walking Festival consists of 21 guided walks to enjoy the best of Autumn splendour in and around Chepstow.
October
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To find out what's happening near to where you are visiting take a look at these links.
