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 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
- Glastonbury 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.
- Between the Trees Festival, with its unique theme of nature & science, takes place each August.
- 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.
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.
Events calendar
Fantastic Fete
A giant village fête reimagined for the 21st century, Fantastic Fete by Street Food Circus takes over the grounds of St Donat's Castle for two consecutive summer-holiday weekends. The castle grounds will be filled with feasting, silly games, performances, and all the joyful chaos of a classic British summer day, all served with the best street food. Expect food from across the world, roaming entertainment, curious competitions, and plenty to keep every age happily occupied.
July
Chepstow Show
Chepstow Show returns to Chepstow Racecourse for a great family day out. Homecraft, horticulture, livestock, vintage and dogs. NEew for 2026 Circus Workshop and Live Music Stage. 08/08/2026.
August
Between the Trees
With its unique theme of nature & science, the Between the Trees festival aims to reconnect people to the natural world. It features a blend of original indie folk music, art and spoken word within a community that embraces all and encourages thinking and creativity. 27 - 30/08/2026
August
Caerphilly Cheese Festival 2026
Say cheese! Get ready for a fantastic weekend of live music, great food and a whole load of fun!
August
Wales Strongest Man
The Wales’s Strongest Man 2026 is scheduled for Sunday 30 August in Cardiff. It forms part of the official UK strongman circuit and brings together some of the top strength athletes from across Wales to compete for the national title. 30/08/2026
August
South Wales Vegan Festival
Vegan Events UK, organiser of vegan festivals around the UK, is pleased to announce the date of its spectacular South Wales Vegan Festival – Saturday 5th September 2026. This special plant-powered celebration will feature plant-based foods and drinks, cruelty-free beauty, skincare, home wares and gifts, and talks, demonstrations, workshops and information on a vegan lifestyle. And with free entry for accompanied under-16s, it's perfect for families.
September
UTSAV 2026
Following the resounding success of their inaugural UTSAV in 2025, September will see Samarpan partner with the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama become a riot of colour and sound when their vibrant, cultural celebration of South Asian Classical Dance returns to Cardiff on September 13th.
September
Abergavenny Food Festival 2026
Abergavenny Food Festival enjoys an exceptional reputation as a place for chefs, food businesses, journalists, farmers and food producers to come together, known for being an inclusive and welcoming event, delivering a delicious opportunity for people from all walks of life to explore and learn about food. 19 - 20/09/2026
September
Pedal Wye Valley
Pedal series is organised by Parkinson's UK as a series of exciting cycling events across the country. With stunning scenery from rivers and valleys to dramatic climbs, pedal with us for an unforgettable experience on two wheels.
September
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