Bangor to host city-wide St David's Festival this spring

Dr Martin Hanks (City Director) & Meirion Owen (Bangor Language Development Centre Officer) standing in front of the official poster. <i>(Image: MPW)</i>
Dr Martin Hanks (City Director) & Meirion Owen (Bangor Language Development Centre Officer) standing in front of the official poster. (Image: MPW)
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Bangor is set to host a city-wide celebration of Welsh culture this spring.

The St David’s Festival will run from February 18 to March 5, 2026.

Organised by Menter Iaith in partnership with local groups and venues, the festival will celebrate the Welsh language through a variety of events, including music, heritage walks, food, parades, and family activities.

Meirion Owen of Menter Iaith Bangor said: "This festival is about bringing the Welsh language out into the heart of the city and making it visible, welcoming and fun for everyone.

"Whether you’re a fluent speaker or just starting your Welsh journey, we want people to feel that Bangor is a place where the language belongs to all of us."

Events will take place throughout the city at pubs, museums, community hubs, historic landmarks, and the pier.

Many activities are free to attend, with several delivered through the medium of Welsh in a supportive, learner-friendly atmosphere.

Highlights of the programme include a heritage walk marking 200 years since the construction of the Menai Bridge, a free concert at Storiel, family events at Penrhyn Castle, an international parade and twmpath, and a fireworks display.

Bangor will also host St David’s Day celebrations at the pier, with live music throughout the afternoon and fireworks in the evening.

The festival will close with Gŵyl Non, a celebration of Welsh women, literature, and music, with events at Pontio and a gig at Tafarn y Nelson.

Dr Martin Hanks, Bangor City Director, said the event reflects the city’s pride in its cultural identity.

Dr Hanks said: "Bangor has a proud cultural heritage, and events like this show the strength of community spirit in the city.

"It’s fantastic to see organisations working together to celebrate our language, history and identity in such an inclusive way."

The festival encourages participation from people of all ages and backgrounds, including individuals, families, schools, and community groups.

Welsh learners are especially welcomed.

Some events will require advance booking via Eventbrite or individual venue websites.

MKM Bangor is the main sponsor of the festival this year, supporting the delivery of events across the city.

Early events include a Welsh-language quiz night at Blue Sky Bach on February 18 and a free concert at Storiel on February 21.

On March 1, live music and festivities will take place at Garth Pier from noon until 6pm, with entry priced at £2 for adults and £1 for children.

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