After the recent bad weather it’s always nice to have something to look forward to. With that in mind, here are some of the major events coming our way. We’ll be adding more once details are fully confirmed. Why not bookmark this page and come back soon.
We’ve put the events into categories, although some will fit into many. The best thing to do, is grab a cuppa, fire up your device, and have a look through the entire list.
MUSIC & COMEDY
OASIS – PRINCIPALITY STADIUM 4th & 5th JULY
It’s official, the Gallagher’s are back and the opening dates will be at Principality Stadium on the 4th and 5th July. Liam and Noel have confirmed Oasis will reunite for a series of live shows. They confirmed summer 2025 gigs in London, Manchester, Cardiff, Edinburgh and Dublin.
The band said….
“The guns have fallen silent. The stars have aligned. The great wait is over. Come see. It will not be televised.”
We won’t direct you to tickets as they are all sold out.
MANIC STREET PREACHERS – SWANSEA ARENA 9th & 10th MAY
After a fantastic year, which included a headline slot at Radio 2’s Party in the Park, MANIC STREET PREACHERS are heading to Swansea Arena for not one, but two huge shows in May.
Supporting their upcoming fifteenth studio album, Critical Thinking, due to be released on 31st January, the Manics will head out on a UK tour starting in April ending with two shows right here at Swansea Arena on Friday 9th and Saturday 10th May. More HERE.
GARY BARLOW SONGBOOK TOUR – UTILITA ARENA 1st MAY
If you’re a Take That fan, you have to see Gary Barlow this year – he cannot be missed’
Gary is a showman. He was born for it. He brings a blend of talent and excitement to all of his shows and his next solo tour will be no exception.
Titled the ‘Songbook’ tour, the run of shows is set to see the soloist and Take That member look back on his four-decade-long career, and perform an array of fan favourites from across his discography.
Gary bring his SONGBOOK TOUR tour to the Utilita Arena in Cardiff on the 1st May. The show starts at 6:30pm. Find out more HERE
MO GILLIGAN – UTILITA ARENA 4th APRIL
Triple BAFTA winning stand up sensation MO GILLIGAN announces a huge 2025 UK leg of his highly anticipated World Tour… In the Moment due to phenomenal demand. Following on from his 2024 UK leg Mo will head back out on the road starting March 13th, getting to the Utilita Arena in Cardiff on 4th April. Ticket details HERE.
Here’s a few other dates to check out…
- STING – CARDIFF CASTLE
- STEPTOE & SON LIVE
- CIRQUE DE CELINE – NEWPORT & SWANSEA
- KINGS OF LEON – BLACKWEIR LIVE
- KATHERINE RYAN – BATTLEAXE
- SAD CAFÉ – ACAPELA STUDIO
- AN EVENING OF MUSIC & LAUGHTER – BLACKWOOD MINER’S
FESTIVALS & SHOWS
IRIS PRIZE & LGBT FILM FESTIVAL CARDIFF – 13th to 19th OCTOBER
Iris Prize brings the best LGBT+ film from around the world to Cardiff each October. Home to the world’s largest short film prize, the festival also features filmmaker Q&As, workshops, events and legendary parties. This is supported through a worldwide network of 25 partner festivals in 19 countries who nominate films each year, alongside open submissions.
After a fantastic 18th festival, the 19th edition will run from Monday, 13th to Sunday, 19th October. Plus, Iris Online will be available across the UK until the end of October, so everyone can enjoy incredible LGBTQ+ films.
As well as the chance to see the very best in current LGBTQ+ short and feature filmmaking, the festival shares panel discussions, special events and legendary parties. They are renowned for their open, friendly and collaborative atmosphere, which sees hundreds welcomed into our worldwide Iris Family every year.
For full details on the festival events, go here. IRIS
CHEPSTOW WALKING FESTIVAL – 22nd to 27th APRIL
5 days of walks for all abilities, plus events and a chance to see Chepstow and the Lower Wye Valley at its finest.
Chepstow lies on the border of Wales and England and is an ideal base for walking in Monmouthshire, the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean. With such a diverse landscape there is everything to offer the walker and visitor whether it be a riverside stroll or a challenging walk along a long distance trail.
Anticipation is building for Chepstow Walking Festival 2025 and the programme will be launched by the end of February. Meanwhile, there are still many similar events happening all around the area, so plenty of opportunity to get those boots working and walk off any seasonal excesses.
To get all the information you need, go here. WALKING
USK SHOW – 14th SEPTEMBER
The gates for the USK SHOW open at 9am on Saturday 14th September and you can spend all day till they shut up at 6pm. For more information about the show, getting there, tickets prices etc, go here. HERE The organisers have just added some really nice ‘behind the scenes’ videos too, which are worth a watch.
DUBS AT THE CASTLE CALDICOT – 17th to 20th JULY
Dubs at the Castle will be a fun-filled family camping weekend, brought to you by VW enthusiasts, whose passion and love for Volkswagens helps to bring you a VW experience like no other. Whether you’re new to the VW scene or a seasoned professional, DATC creates a special atmosphere for all the family to enjoy.
Throughout the weekend there are Live Bands, Traders, Club Displays, the ever popular Old Skool Bike Competition and of course, Show ‘n Shine. Children’s activities and a great selection of food stalls help to keep the little ones happy while you spend your time admiring the wonderful array of Volkswagens on display.
Set in the beautiful grounds of Caldicot Castle, DATC is a firm favourite in the VW calendar. They look forward to welcoming all their loyal supporters who return year after year, whilst extending an extra special Welsh welcome, ‘Croeso’ to new visitors..
Take a look at the DUBS site for more information. DUBS
THE HAY FESTIVAL – 22nd MAY TO 1st JUNE
The Hay Festival brings together writers from around the world to debate and share stories at its festival in the staggering beauty of the Welsh Borders.
There’s nothing quite like the Hay Literary Festival. It’s a true celebration of books, storytelling and creativity featuring award-winning novelists, travel writers, Pulitzer Prize winners, children’s authors, broadcasters, performers, thinkers, pioneers, artists and innovators will appear at talks, debates, performances and readings over the nine day programme.
You can follow the HAY FESTIVAL programme here and look back at the best of this years events HERE
WALES AIR SHOW – 5th & 6th JULY
The free WALES AIR SHOW is set to return to Swansea Bay this July, and it really is such a major FREE event. With breathtaking aerobatic displays, state-of-the-art military aircraft and vintage planes from the past, it will once again thrill tens of thousands of visitors.
Last time they smashed the attendance record, the weather was perfect and the organisers felt it was the best ever! They’re looking to make this year even bigger with even more exciting air display teams and entertainment.
In the meantime you can check out the WALES AIR SHOW and look back at the last event, HERE.
ELVIS FESTIVAL PORTHCAWL – 26th to 28th SEPTEMBER
Every September thousands of Elvis fans descend on the Welsh seaside town of Porthcawl for a unique celebration of The King. The feature events are the Official Shows taking place in the magnificent Grand Pavilion. These include The Elvies, the World’s leading award Show for Elvis Tribute Artists.
In addition, The Hi-Tide hosts over 100 shows over the weekend, many with free admission. Finally, over twenty venues in and around the Town form the Fringe Festival, making Porthcawl the largest Elvis event in Europe.
For more details, go here. ELVIS.
PRIDE CYMRU – CARDIFF 21st & 22nd JUNE
Pride Cymru is a volunteer-led charity that works to promote the elimination of discrimination be it on the grounds of sexual orientation, gender, race, religion or ability.
They are committed to campaigning for equality and acceptance of diversity within our communities. They recognise and celebrate the contributions made by LGBTQ+ people in society and continue our work to create opportunities for LGBTQ+ people around Wales to connect and support each other.
If you’ve never experienced a Pride Cymru weekend, the. you haven’t lived – it really is amazing fun, and a great place to come together as one big ‘family’.
Full details HERE.
FOOD & DRINK
ABERGAVENNY FOOD FESTIVAL – 20th & 21st SEPTEMBER
Set within the rolling hills of Monmouthshire, Wales’ best loved food will return in September, showcasing real food from real farmers and chefs.
From cooking demonstrations, to tasting workshops, cocktail making and foraging excursions to knee-slapping live bands, raucous castle parties and market stall holders selling everything from cheese, meats and chocolates to kombucha, kefir and vinegar! Plus sumptuous street food, kids cookery schools and fun farmyard activities. Abergavenny Food Festival is a place to eat, drink, learn, laugh, expand your horizons, tackle the big issues and celebrate everything about great food and drink.
For more information, go here. FOOD
COWBRIDGE FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL 25th & 26th MAY
Cowbridge Food and Drink Festival is organised by a fantastic volunteer committee with the help of a part-time Event Organiser.
Planning is underway for the 2025 Food and Drink Festival. The confirmed dates for this year are Sunday 25th and Monday 26th May.
They are in the process of sorting out all of the usual delights we offer, so demos, delicious hot and cold food and drink, plenty of entertainment for the younger visitors and lots to see and do around Town.
For more festival details, go HERE.
CARDIFF FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL DATES TBC
Cardiff Food & Drink Festival is one of the most popular events in the city’s summer calendar and takes place in Roald Dahl Plass, Cardiff Bay.
The Producers Fair and Farmers Market will have a host of stallholders, all offering a spectacular spread of quality produce. Meanwhile caterers will be cooking up a storm on the Street Food Piazza, where you can choose from a wide range of freshly prepared foodie delights.
Alongside the fantastic food and drink, the Bandstand will have full programme of live music throughout each of the three days of the festival. Meanwhile, at the Crafters Market, you’ll find a wonderful selection of hand-made goods, curated by Craft*folK.
NEATH FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL – DATES TBC (OCTOBER)
Neath Food and Drink Festival welcomes around 60 exhibitors and award winning suppliers to Neath’s famous Indoor Victorian Market. The festival is a true celebration of local produce and the historic market town. Street food will be available in Angel Square and Neath Square while entertainment fills the surrounding area.
More details on the festival HERE.
FAULTY TOWERS DINING EXPERIENCE AT BRYNGARW HOUSE – 7th FEBRUARY
The world-renowned immersive phenomenon is currently celebrating 27 years as the world’s most sought-after tribute to the BBC sitcom. Faulty Towers The Dining Experience is an unmissable highly interactive comedy spectacular, where audiences enjoy a 3-course meal alongside 5-star comedy.
When the audience become diners in the ‘Faulty Towers’ restaurant, pretty much anything can happen – because 70% of the show is improvised. The fun starts as guests wait to be seated. It then hurtles along in a 2-hour tour de force of gags and shambolic service as Basil, Sybil and Manuel serve a ‘70s-style 3-course meal together with a good dollop of mayhem.
Expect the unexpected!
Fawlty Towers Menu 2025
Canapes upon arrival: Prawn cocktail vol au vaunt; Bryngarw honey-glazed pork and leek sausages; Cheese pineapple sticks; Bruschetta
Starter: Tomato and basil soup, crispy basil leaves, garlic and herb crouton (VE, GF)
Main: Chicken breast stuffed with chestnut and sage stuffing, wrapped in smoked streaky bacon served with goose fat roasted potatoes, tender stem broccoli, Yorkshire pudding, Bryngarw honey-glazed parsnips, baby heritage carrots and a light sage jus
Dessert: Chocolate fudge cake served with vanilla bean ice cream and berry compote; Chocolate and orange tart served with vanilla ice cream and berry compote (GF, VE)
Duration: 5 hours. More details HERE.
THE GIN & RUM FESTIVAL – BRANGWYN HALL 8th MARCH
Find your new favourite flavour, at the upcoming Gin & Rum Festival at Brangwyn Hall!
Grab your free drink, snack and branded collectables, all included in your festival ticket!
Proudly sponsored by Schweppes, providing you with free mixers.
Two sessions: 12.30pm to 17.00pm and 18.30pm to 22.30pm. More details HERE.
THEATRE
NYE – WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE 22nd to 30th AUGUST
Following a sell-out run earlier this year, a major play starring MICHAEL SHEEN as one of Wales’s most influential figures will return to Cardiff in August.
NYE, the smash-hit co-production between the National Theatre and Wales Millennium Centre, will return to the Welsh capital for a strictly limited run at the Donald Gordon Theatre on 22nd – 30th August 2025.
We have a special feature on the show take a look HERE
BAT OUT OF HELL THE MUSICAL – NEW THEATRE 3rd to 8th FEBRUARY
Following a successful UK, Ireland and International tour from 2021 – 2023 the Award-winning BAT OUT OF HELL – THE MUSICAL, featuring Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf’s greatest hits, will return to tour the UK, with performances at the New Theatre in Cardiff from Monday 3rd February.
Returning to the cast are GLENN ADAMSON (We Will Rock You, London Coliseum, Bat Boy in concert, London Palladium) as Strat, KATIE TONKINSON (Bonnie and Clyde, UK & Ireland Tour) as Raven and original leading cast members ROB FOWLER (MAMMA MIA!,UK & International tour, Tanz Der Vampire Das Musical, German tour) as Falco and SHARON SEXTON (MAMMA MIA!, UK & International tour, Billy Elliot The Musical) as Sloane.
Read our feature HERE.
DEAR EVAN HANSEN – WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE 29th APRIL TO 3rd MAY
The Olivier, Tony and Grammy award-winning Best Musical DEAR EVAN HANSEN will visit Wales Millennium Centre as part of a first major UK tour.
The new production will land in the Donald Gordon Theatre on 29 April – 3 May.
The new production from Ambassador Theatre Group Productions and Nottingham Playhouse will be directed by Nottingham Playhouse’s Artistic Director Adam Penford.
RYAN KOPEL (Newsies) will play the iconic role of Evan Hansen, alongside LAUREN CONROY (Into The Woods) as Zoe Murphy and ALICE FEARN (Wicked, Come From Away) as Evan’s mum, Heidi.
They will be joined by Helen Anker (Mamma Mia!) as Cynthia Murphy, Richard Hurst (The Lion King) as Larry Murphy, Killian Thomas Lefevre (Bat Out Of Hell) as Connor Murphy, Tom Dickerson (Heathers)as Jared Kleinman, Vivian Panka (9 to 5 the Musical) as Alana Beck and Sonny Monaghan (discovered via TikTok) as alternate Evan.
This is the first production of Dear Evan Hansen in the UK to perform the show with an ensemble. The ensemble are Lara Beth-Sas, Will Forgrave, Daniel Forrester, Jessica Lim, Sonny Monaghan and Shakira Simpson.
Read our feature HERE.
THE LITTLE MERMAID – BLACKWOOD MINER’S 23rd & 24th APRIL
Following the success of “Alice in Wonderland”, multi award-nominated Immersion Theatre invite you on a vibrant underwater adventure like no other in their most spectacular and fantastical family musical yet, The Little Mermaid!
Packed with dazzling sets, colourful characters, astounding choreography, original music, and heaps of audience participation, this brand-new adaptation sees the adventurous Little Mermaid embark on an unforgettable adventure as the wonders of the sea burst onto the stage in a magical experience that will have audiences of all ages enchanted and enthralled from start to FIN-ish!
Guaranteed to make a splash with the whole family, this energetic and shrimp-ly sensational musical extravaganza promises a whale of a time whether you’re 4 or 104!
Suitable for ages 4+ More details – HERE.
Here are other shows you can check out……
- ONLY FOOLS & HORSES – THE MUSICAL
- CHARLIE & THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY – CARMARTHEN YOUTH OPERA
- SPAMALOT – PARK & DARE
SPORT
SWANSEA BAY 10K – SUNDAY 14th SEPTEMBER
It feels like it’s been a long time coming but runners can now get their entries in for an 80’s themed ADMIRAL SWANSEA BAY 10k.
The Swansea Bay 10k returns for its 44th race on 14 September 2025, and takes place along the beautiful and iconic sweep of Swansea Bay! Open to all abilities aged 15+, the course is a firm favourite with both experienced and first time runners, as the fast and flat course is a perfect introduction to road running, and perfect for improving your personal best.
All of this, combined with a great family atmosphere resulted in the race being named Best 10k in the Wales two years in a row at The UK Running Awards.
For full details head – HERE
CARDIFF HALF MARATHON – SUNDAY 5th OCTOBER
The Cardiff University/Cardiff Half Marathon has grown into one of the largest and most exciting road races in the United Kingdom, promising to deliver the full works for the half marathon. It is now one of Europe’s largest half marathons and is Wales’ largest mass participation and multi-charity fundraising event.
The event has grown significantly since it was founded by Barnardo’s in 2003 when 1,500 runners took part. It now attracts a mass race field of over 27,500 registered runners alongside world-class athletes in a trio of fiercely contested men’s, women’s and wheelchair elite races.
The CARDIFF HALF MARATHON now takes place on Sunday 5th October but we can tell you that places are filling up already. If you’d like more details and to register, take a look HERE
WALES V IRELAND GUINNESS SIX NATIONS – PRINCIPALITY STADIUM 22nd FEBRUARY
The 74,000-capacity Principality Stadium is expected to be full to its rafters for Ireland’s visit in round three of the flagship men’s competition, with only a few thousand tickets remaining, starting at £40 for U18 concessions and £80 adults.
Ticketing and price information for the Men’s 2025 Guinness Six Nations
Wales v Ireland, Saturday 22nd February, Principality Stadium KO: 14:15
CAT A £130 (LIMITED AVAILABILITY), CAT B £120, CAT C £115, CAT D £60 (sold out), AFZ £80/U18s £40 (LIMITED AVAILABILITY).
More details – HERE.
Here’s a few more sporting suggestions….
THINGS TO DO
FOLLOW THE GAVIN & STACEY TRAIL
Without doubt it is one of the most successful television shows ever filmed in South Wales. What has been a real pleasure, fo those of us who know Barry so well, is that it showed what a close-knit, friendly community of people they are. As for the locations, they are now as famous as the show itself and attract thousands of visitors each year, and no doubt even more following the Christmas Special.
Most of the series, including many of the scenes that are meant to be in England, were actually filmed in and around Barry. Even the Shipman’s Essex home is really in South Wales.
Find out more about the trail – HERE.
REGENCY SITES TO VISIT IN SOUTH WALES
The Regency period (1790s-1830s), in the latter part of the Georgian era, was brimming with revolutionary activity, although the Prince of Wales only assumed power between 1811-1820. Refined etiquettes, polite courtships, large ballrooms, and strict social and gender regulations gave birth to a flurry of Classical-inspired literature, art, and architecture, while the British ‘Read-coats’ demonstrated their heroism in the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
Aspects of the period have been immortalised by the BBC’s adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, starring Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth. But Netflix’s hit new series, Bridgerton, has sparked a renewed global interest in the era. England certainly holds the crown for elegant Regency buildings and distinctive towns, but South Wales secretly houses some spectacular remnants of the period. So, let’s take a look at seven sites that should be at the top of your travel list!
Jade Braham breaks down seven of the best and most loved site in our feature – HERE.
LEARN TO FISH – FREE FAMIL EVENTS
It seems we love the idea of sitting with our kids, by the side of the water and just enjoying the company, and a few sandwiches and a little cuppa of course.
They are great events to get the kids (and you) off your mobile devices for a few hours. We’ve also had parents tell us that the positive impact on their children, both mentally and physically is enormous.
The free LET’S FISH events are really well worth doing. Fishing is fun, it’s good for your mind and body, and it’s something the whole family can enjoy. You’ll always remember the first time you caught a fish.
Find out more about the free events – HERE.
AN EVENING WITH JOJO MOYES THE ANGEL ABERGAVENNY 12th FEBRUARY
Understandably, Book-Ish are BEYOND excited to be hosting an event with the bestselling author Jojo Moyes! Join the at The Angel Hotel in Abergavenny for an evening of conversation and to celebrate the publication of Jojo’s new book, We All Live Here, which will be hot-off-the-press. This is an event not to be missed!
About Jojo Moyes
Jojo Moyes is a novelist and journalist. Her books include the bestsellers Me Before You, After You, Still Me, The Girl You Left Behind, The One Plus One and her short story collection Paris for One and Other Stories. Her novels have been translated into forty-six languages, have hit the number one spot in twelve countries and have sold over fifty million copies worldwide. Me Before You has now sold over fourteen million copies worldwide and was adapted into a major film starring Sam Claflin and Emilia Clarke.
A taster of We All Live Here
Welcome to the Kennedy household: Lila wrote a bestseller about keeping your marriage alive, before discovering her ex was playing happy families with another woman. A woman she sees everyday at school pick-up. Bill, her stepdad, moved in after Lila’s mum died. He’s kind, old-fashioned and driving her absolutely nuts. Celie, Lila’s eldest, hates school. Hates it so much she’s stopped going. Her mother’s fine with that – because she doesn’t know yet. Violet is nine and sings age-inappropriate rap songs, laughs at fart jokes and Lila dearly hopes she’ll never, ever change. And Truant the dog has just bitten the American actor who’s suddenly landed on the Kennedys’ doorstep. This is Gene – Lila’s estranged father, and no one’s idea of a role model. He walked out on Lila and her mum years ago – and wherever he goes domestic discord follows. Because Gene’s presence changes things in unexpected ways. Soon the girls discover a kindred spirit in a man always chasing life’s joy. Bill even loosens up. And Lila finds herself, astonishingly, dating. Something is happening to the Kennedy household – but what is it? And will it break, or save, their family?
More details HERE.
OUR SOUTH WALES
These have been a feature on South Wales Life for a while now. When lockdown number one finished, we put together a short series of features to remind us how lovely OUR SOUTH WALES is, and the fact we should be our celebrating, and enjoying this amazing area of ours. You can take a look at the features below.
