By
Jack RLA
Posted 1 month ago
Thu 17 Oct, 2024 12:10 PM
Photo by Balazs Bezeczky
Cardiff is well known for its commitment towards equality, diversity and Inclusion. Here in Cardiff, over 100 languages and 160 dialects are spoken, with 17% of Cardiff residents being born outside of the UK. It is no surprise that Cardiff is a place where multiple celebrations from various cultures are celebrated each year. Here are some of the best upcoming festivals and events that embrace the Welsh capital’s diverse culture!
Cardiff Music City Festival
Cardiff, South Wales, 27 September – 20 October 2024
photo by Hanny Naibaho on Unsplash
They say that music is a universal language, and so what better way to celebrate different cultures than a city music festival? In fact, one of the biggest music festivals across Wales is currently taking place in Cardiff! Since 2007, the Cardiff Music City Festival (Sŵn Festival) has introduced both international and local talent to perform in the Welsh capital. Don’t be surprised to find yourself walking into a performance as the festival stretches across the whole of Cardiff!
More information:
https://swnfest.com/about/#:~:text=Cardiff%20Music%20City%20Festival%20presents,wales.
Diwali Celebrations
photo by Udayadita Barua on Unsplash
A significant event for Hindus, Sikhs and Jains, Diwali is known as the ‘Festival of Light’ and occurs between mid-October to mid-November. The word ‘Diwali’ originates from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, which means "rows of lighted lamps". During this five-day celebration, shops are decorated with small oil lamps called Diyas and people enjoy sweets and fireworks.
Here in Cardiff, places such as the Shree Swaminarayan Temple Cardiff will be hosting events such as the Chopda Poojan ritual on the 31st of October.
More information:
https://www.swaminarayan.wales/news/calendar
Christmas Markets
Photo by Ross Sneddon on Unsplash
Perhaps one of the most iconic festivities here in Cardiff, the annual Cardiff Christmas Markets (14th November - 23rd December) offers an array of exhibitors offering exquisite merchandise and local delights. Don’t forget to also check out the Cardiff Winter Wonderland as you enjoy a cup of mulled wine and some delicious crepes!
More information:
https://www.cardiffchristmasmarket.com/the-market/
https://cardiffswinterwonderland.com/
Chinese New Year
photo by Norbert Braun
Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is the most important traditional holiday in China. It marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and is celebrated with family reunions, festive meals. Common festivities include fireworks, dragon dances, and red decorations symbolizing luck and prosperity. The holiday typically lasts for 15 days, culminating with the Lantern Festival. It’s a time to honor ancestors, reflect on the past year, and usher in new beginnings with joy and hope. Make sure to check out events such as cookery courses at Anglea Gray’s to celebrate the Year of the Snake!
More information:
https://www.angelagray.co.uk/courses-2025/
St.David’s Day
Celebrated on March 1st, the national day of Wales honors St. David, the patron saint of the country. St David’s Day is marked with parades, traditional music, and the wearing of symbols like the leek and the daffodil, which are associated with Welsh identity. Many people dress in traditional Welsh costumes, and children often take part in school activities celebrating Welsh culture. St. David's Day is a time for people in Wales and Welsh communities worldwide to celebrate their heritage and national pride. Make sure to check out the Annual Parade that takes place in the city centre, and maybe even join in the St David’s Day Run in a fancy whimsical dress to celebrate this joyous moment!
More information:
References:
Cardiff Government equality and inclusion strategy 2020-2024: https://www.cardiff.gov.uk/ENG/Your-Council/Strategies-plans-and-policies/Equality-diversity-and-inclusion/Strategic-Equality-Plan-and-Policies/Documents/Equality%20Inclusion%20Strategy%202020%202024.pdf
