Coast & Countryside

What's On in Carmarthenshire...

There is a wealth of natural attractions in Carmarthenshire as well as a range of organised events, festivals and celebrations.

Among the highlights for the energetic are three races in the Llanelli Waterside Series. The 10km roadrace along the Millennium Coastal Park is listed as one of the top hundred races in the UK. The Triathlon event sees the super-fit swim, cycle and run to clinch the title.

Carmarthenshire is a Mecca for cyclists and walkers and there’s a packed schedule of events to suit all ages and abilities. One favourite is the Carreg Cennen and Black Mountain Guided Walk which takes in some of the most dramatic scenery the county has to offer. The Merlin Bike Ride takes you on a magical tour of Carmarthenshire’s mountains, countryside and coastline.

Then there’s the Welsh Game Fair at Gelli Aur, which draws crowds from far and wide to the beautiful Tywi Valley.

Carmarthenshire’s proud of its language and tradition. We celebrate our patron saint on March 1 with a Saint David’s Day full of cultural entertainment showcasing the best of local crafts and produce. There’s more tradition at the magical Dragon Festival in Newcastle Emlyn in June. July marks the annual Llandeilo Fawr Music and Flower Festival with its distinguished programme of artists and performers from around the globe.

Summer is fiesta time with a host of carnivals and village shows. Among the popular parades are the ones at Burry Port, scenic Llansteffan and Seaside - Ammanford even has its own Mardi Gras! Then there are the Christmas carnivals - the annual switching on of the festive lights at Llanelli and Carmarthen are among the most talked about events in the county. Fantastic firework displays make sure the night goes off with a bang. The festive season wouldn’t be complete without the Annual Walrus Dip where vikings, fairies and even pantomime horses take their places on the seashore before braving the water to raise money for local charities.

Bigger shows, such as the popular antique fairs are held regularly throughout the year at Carmarthen’s United Counties Showground. Look out for the South Wales Homes & Gardens Show in June.

Carmarthenshire is the newest home of Welsh horseracing and in June the first National Hunt course in the UK for 80 years will open in Ffos Las near Trimsaran. An exciting fixture of jumps and flat races are promised. Former snooker world champion Terry Griffiths oversees the best young players competing in a series of open events at the Terry Griffiths Matchroom in Llanelli.

Parc Howard in Llanelli hosts the prestigious Roberts-Rolfe Open Singles Bowls Championship in July. This important event has been played since 1926 and attracts bowlers from all over the UK for great prize money.

There’s always something wet and wacky happening at the National Wetland Centre but if you love getting up close to nature then the annual Mud Festival in September is a must for you. The centre also celebrates the wonders of the flamingo with their Flamingo Festival in the summer.

Carmarthenshire is a magnet for artists, designers and craftspeople. Visit their unique studios and watch them at work or check out their exciting exhibition schedule. See their work displayed at stunning venues such as Aberglasney, Parc Howard, and the National Botanic Garden for Wales, and at the exciting Arts and Crafts Street Market held in Carmarthen in June.

Talkng of markets, don’t forget every week you can visit any of Carmarthenshire’s street markets and food markets for the best local produce. Top quality Farmers' Markets are held regularly in Carmarthen, Llanelli, Ammanford and Llandovery. You can even experience the taste, sights and smells of an authentic Italian Market.

Wow! With a What’s On calendar as jam-packed as this, you’ll never be at a loss for something to do in Carmarthenshire.