University partners Urdd Eisteddfod
18 February 2019
Cardiff University is teaming up with one of Europe’s largest touring youth festivals as it visits Cardiff Bay this year.
The partnership with the 2019 Urdd National Eisteddfod, which runs from 27 May to 1 June, is part of the University’s commitment to Welsh language and culture.
More than 15,000 young people are expected to take part in competitions including song, dance and performance.
The University will have a major presence on the ‘Maes’, or Eisteddfod site, as well as supporting some of the most high-profile events.
Cardiff University’s Dean for the Welsh Language, Dr Huw Williams, said the University was fully committed to supporting Welsh language and culture as part of its strategy.
“Part of our ‘civic mission’ is to promote and celebrate the Welsh language and ensure that we contribute to Welsh cultural life,” said Dr Williams.
“We do this in many ways already, not least in our participation in and support for the National Eisteddfod every year, but I’m delighted that we’re partnering with the Urdd Eisteddfod too.
We’re proud to be a Welsh university and offer our students and staff the opportunity to contribute to the promotion of the language and culture.
As well as hosting events and activities at this year’s Urdd Eisteddfod, the University will support the prestigious Crowning ceremony - for the author of the best prose of over 4,000 words - and the end-of-event gig.
Aled Siôn, Director of the Urdd Eisteddfod, said: “We’re very proud of our partnership with Cardiff University this year and are grateful for their support. Support from local and national organisations are integral to the success of the Urdd Eisteddfod and as part of our partnership Cardiff University will support the Crowning ceremony, which is one of the festival’s main competitions, as well as the gig on the Saturday night.
“The gig at the end of the week has become a highlight for many of our members and, with the University’s support this year, they will once again be able to enjoy some of the best contemporary Welsh music as the Urdd Eisteddfod returns to Cardiff Bay.”
Around 90,000 visitors attend the Urdd Eisteddfod and it is held in a different location in Wales each year.
This year’s event is being held in Cardiff Bay, the same location as the hugely successful 2018 National Eisteddfod.
Entry to the Maes will be free and there will be an admission fee to enter the main pavilion and prelims.
The Urdd Eisteddfod was last held in Cardiff Bay in 2009.
