There is always something happening close to our cosy cottages at The Good Life Wales – May, June and July in the Brecon Beacons 2023 are no exception. May and June are great months to visit the area, as there are plenty of exciting events and festivals taking place during this time.
One of the most anticipated events in May is the Hay Festival of Literature and the Arts, which takes place from May 25 to June 4. This festival brings together some of the biggest names in literature and the arts for 11 days of talks, debates, workshops, and performances. Visitors can expect to see a diverse range of speakers, from authors and poets to scientists and politicians. This year’s lineup includes Margaret Atwood, Richard Dawkins, and Stephen Fry, among many others. In addition to the literary events, there will be live music, comedy shows, and family-friendly activities.
A star studded guest list from all cultural, political, literature and musical backgrounds include writers Margaret Atwood, Barbara Kingsolver, Eleanor Catton, Max Porter, Jonathan Coe, Leïla Slimani, Fflur Dafydd, Caleb Azumah Nelson, Alys Conran, Richard Ford, Jojo Moyes, Horatio Clare, Natalie Haynes, Richard Osman, Douglas Stuart, Elif Shafak, Katherine May; poets Simon Armitage, Owen Sheers, Carol Ann Duffy, Rufus Mufasa and Michael Rosen; YA star Alice Oseman; children’s heroes Cressida Cowell, Jacqueline Wilson, Julia Donaldson, Connor Allen; music icons Stormzy, Dua Lipa, The Proclaimers, the Levellers, Judi Jackson, Baaba Maal, Zhadan and the Dogs; comedians Dara Ó Briain, Tom Allen, Jason Byrne, Kiri Pritchard-McLean, Josie Long, Isy Suttie; stars of stage and screen Helena Bonham Carter, Richard E. Grant; politicians and policy makers Sadiq Khan, chief scientific adviser Patrick Vallance; journalists George Monbiot, Alastair Campbell, Marina Hyde, Gary Younge, Lyse Doucet; activist Munroe Bergdorf; economist Mariana Mazzucato; historians Lucy Worsley, Simon Schama, Irene Vallejo; artist Tracey Emin; foodies Mary Berry, Jack Monroe, Ruth Rogers, Andi Oliver and Prue Leith; Thinkers in Residence Laura Bates, Will Gompertz, David Olusoga, Charlotte Williams; and many more.
For the Foodies there is Hay on Wye Summer Food Festival. This one-day gourmet gathering is well worth a visit. It’s limited to a relatively small number of local food, cider and whisky producers to ensure the quality is the best, and there’s entertainment from local brass bands, male voice choirs and folk musicians. As it’s an outdoor event, the atmosphere is particularly festive in good weather. The venue is Hay’s Memorial Car Park, in the middle of town.
Another Food Extravaganza coming up in July is the Three Counties Food and Drink Festival. Serving up an amazing feast of delights, with over 150 different food and drink stands, this new family-friendly festival will offer a wide range of artisan produce from some of the region’s most esteemed producers, alongside some of the UK’s very best street food vendors serving up a wide variety of outstanding international cuisines. Dates confirmed are 29 – 30 July 2023 at Three Counties Showground.
Another event to look out for that is coming up in July is the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show, which takes place from July 24 to July 27. This is one of the biggest agricultural shows in the UK and attracts visitors from all over the world. There are livestock competitions, horse shows, and displays of traditional crafts and skills. Visitors can also sample some of the best Welsh food and drink and watch demonstrations of traditional cooking methods.
There are several music festivals taking place in the area. One of the most popular is the HowTheLightGetsIn Festival, which takes place from May 27 to June 6 alongside the Hay Festival. This festival combines music with philosophy and debate, and attracts some of the most innovative thinkers and performers from around the world. Visitors can enjoy a diverse lineup of musicians, from classical and folk to rock and pop, as well as talks and debates on a range of topics.
Another music festival to look out for is the Green Man Festival, which takes place from August 17 to August 20. Although not in May or June, it’s worth mentioning as it’s a highly anticipated event for music lovers. This festival takes place in the stunning surroundings of the Brecon Beacons and features a mix of established and emerging artists from a range of genres, including indie, folk, and electronic. There are also workshops, talks, and activities for families.
For a broader list of many varied outings and goings-on, check out the AllEvents website for a long list of ideas for events to visit.
Also in August is the Brecon Jazz Festival, which takes place from August 6 to August 20 . This festival has been running since 1984 and has become one of the most popular jazz events in the UK. The festival attracts jazz musicians from all over the world, and visitors can expect to see both established artists and up-and-coming talent. There are usually around 30 different concerts and events taking place over the weekend, so there’s something for everyone.
Finally, throughout May and June, there are several smaller music events taking place in the Brecon Beacons, such as open mic nights, jazz evenings, and folk concerts. These events are a great opportunity to see local musicians and enjoy the vibrant music scene in the area.
Just some of the reasons to book some time away in one of our beautiful self catering cottages, tucked away in out country retreat – however busy your day you will always have the relaxing return to your own wood-fired hot tub with stunning views of our secluded valley on your terrace.
Book now – you know you’re worth it!!