What is it?

The National Eisteddfod is a big Welsh language cultural festival that takes place annually, alternating between north and south Wales. In 2009 it was held in the town of Bala, Gwynedd. In August 2010 it will be held in Ebbw Vale, Blaenau Gwent, and then in Wrexham, in 2011.

It's the largest cultural festival of its kind in Europe, and a key event in the Welsh calendar. Although events are conducted through the medium of Welsh, the festival itself attracts Welsh and English speakers. It is a mixture of daily talent competitions and evening concerts (performers in 2009 included Rhydian (X Factor) and Only Men Aloud choir (Last Choir Standing) amongst other big names), gigs, plays and exhibitions. Competitions in the main pavilion vary from dance to recitation, singing to brass bands.

When does it happen?

The National Eisteddfod takes place annually during the first week of August. 2009's Eisteddfod took place in Bala, Gwynedd between August 1 - 8.

Where is it held?

The 2009 Eisteddfod was held on the Rhiwlas estate close to Bala town centre (the same location as the 1997 Eisteddfod also held in the town) with the caravan site, youth field and car park all close together.

Who's it for?

Everyone's welcome; you'll receive a warm welcome at the Eisteddfod, regardless of whether or not you can speak Welsh. As a celebration of Welsh culture, Welsh is the official language of the Eisteddfod, but a translation service is available. As you arrive at the Maes, those who require a translating kit can pick one up for the day. You can still enjoy arts, crafts, music and dance and soak up the atmosphere, without an in-depth knowledge of the language.

What to expect

The Eisteddfod annually attracts on average more than 150,000 visitors a week. In 2009, there were a total of 164,689 across the week. The main field is known as the Maes and the main pavilion is the hub of the festival where the music, dance, poetry and recitation competitions are held.

Competing in the pavilion draws to a close at around 4.30pm most afternoons for the main ceremonies to take place. These include: the Crowning (best work in free verse) on Monday, Daniel Owen memorial prize (best unpublished Welsh novel) on Tuesday, on Wednesday the prose Medal, and Friday sees the chairing of the winning poet. On Wednesday and Friday evenings the competitions resume after the main ceremonies, and go on late into the night.

Around the Maes and beyond

There are also theatre, arts and crafts exhibitions, a literature pavilion, an area for Welsh learners to hone their language skills (Maes D), as well as trade stands and exhibitors. There are also plenty of food stalls on the Maes and a bar.

There are evening entertainments galore as part of the Eisteddfod - both in the pavilion and in other local venues. These include plays, concerts and performances by local groups. There are nightly events at 'Maes C' (located at the caravan site) - the poetry and comedy area, and if it's bands you're after, head to 'Maes B' or many of the other gigs held nearby.

Maes D - the 'd' stands for dysgwyr (learners) - is the Welsh learners' pavilion on the Eisteddfod Maes. Get involved by competing on the Maes D stage, or sit back and listen to music while practicing your language skills with other Welsh speakers, learners and tutors. At Maes D you can also find out more about Welsh courses and social activities for learners.