National Eisteddfod Draws 150,000 to Wrexham Celebrating Welsh Culture

Wrexham is hosting the National Eisteddfod, Wales' annual festival celebrating the Welsh language, culture, literature, and performance, welcoming over 150,000 visitors and 6,000 competitors showcasing Welsh arts. This marks the first time since 2011 that the event is held in Wrexham, a city that has seen significant growth in tourism and global recognition, partly due to Wrexham AFC's success, with owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney prominently supporting Welsh culture. The First Minister praised Wrexham as a symbol of modern Wales where cultural heritage meets contemporary success, highlighting the city's resilience and strong community spirit. Maxine Hughes, known for her work on the Welcome to Wrexham documentary, is actively involved in the festival as a Welsh tutor for Rob McElhenney, and will lead sessions and discussions during the event. The festival also benefits from a Welsh government grant allowing many local residents to attend for free, emphasizing inclusivity and community engagement. Wrexham's hosting of the Eisteddfod underscores its role as a vibrant cultural and sporting destination on the world stage.