How to celebrate Dydd Miwsig Cymru (Welsh Language Music Day)

How to celebrate Dydd Miwsig Cymru (Welsh Language Music Day)

Wales is famous for being ‘the land of song’, with singing seen as a core part of our national identity. This is just one of many reasons why you should celebrate Dydd Miwsig Cymru, held on 13 February.

Launched in 2013, Dydd Miwsig Cymru celebrates Welsh music in its entirety, from folk and hip hop to indie rock. It encourages us to promote the Welsh language through not just music but in our everyday language (but especially music). Carry on reading to find out how and where you can celebrate Dydd Miwsig Cymru.

How to celebrate Dydd Miwsig Cymru

The easiest way to celebrate Dydd Miwsig Cymru? Broaden your musical horizons and listen to songs by Welsh-language bands. Welsh music spans across all genres - there’s something for everyone.

Welsh actor Rhys Ifans shared his favourite Welsh language songs from a list of playlists specially curated for Dydd Miwsig Cymru. From the Super Furry Animals to the iconic Yma o Hyd, you can celebrate the diversity of Welsh music all year round.

Fancy an evening out for Dydd Miwsig Cymru? Events are happening across Wales, including Cardiff, Swansea, Bangor, Dolgellau and Wrexham. Find more events here.

An example of how to embrace Dydd Miwsig Cymru is Clwb Ifor Bach, Wales’ leading grassroots music venue. On 13 February, the club is marking the day by organising events spread across three Cardiff venues. Visit Clwb Ifor Bach, Boho Cardiff and Tiny Rebel for just £5 and enjoy an evening of Welsh language music. Accessible, affordable and in the heart of the capital city - what’s not to like?

Where to celebrate Welsh music

Beyond Dydd Miwsig Cymru, there are plenty of spaces across Wales where you can enjoy Welsh music and Welsh language.

Cardiff (T1C)

Wales Millenium Centre is a cultural hub that constantly offers ways to embrace Welsh culture, from musicals to theatre.

Just outside the city centre, you’ll find Chapter. An international centre for contemporary arts and culture, Chapter hosts a range of Welsh language performances, from music to comedy.

Aberystwyth (T1, T2/T28, T5)

The Bank Vault in Aberystwyth is a popular live music venue that hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including Welsh language performances. Based at the university campus is Aberystwyth Arts Centre, which hosts live music concerts from local musicians and performers.

Dolgellau (T3C)

Turning the streets into a stage, Dolgellau hosts the popular bilingual Sesiwn Fawr festival every year and champions the Welsh music scene. Local music venue Ty Siamas organises events with artists from across Wales - if you visit Dolgellau in summer, you’ll often be treated to outdoor performances. 

Carmarthen (T5)

Tucked away in Carmarthen is hidden gem and multi award-winning grassroots music venue, CWRW. An intimate but lively pub, this spot is home to live music performances, a recording studio and quiz nights.

Bethesda (T10)

Neuadd Ogwen in rural Bethesda hosts a range of events all year round that celebrate Welsh music. Vibrant and community-centred, see emerging local artists and international stars like iconic Welsh hip-hop group Goldie Looking Chain.

In the words of Rhys Ifans, Welsh language music is “a gold mine of a musical world - dig it up.” Start digging with Transport for Wales / TrawsCymru and plan your journey here: https://traws.cymru/en