Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council has unveiled its 2026 events calendar, promising a packed year of family favourites alongside a brand new headline event.
The council says the 2026 programme features something for everyone, from large scale music events and food festivals to community celebrations and seasonal attractions across the county borough.
New for 2026 is the RCT 90’s Summer Party, which will take place at Ynysangharad War Memorial Park on Saturday 22 August. The event will celebrate some of the biggest hits of the decade, with a line up including Heather Small, Kenny Thomas, East 17, Whigfield and S Club featuring Jo and Jon. Residents are being encouraged to keep an eye on council social media channels for further updates.
Several popular events are also set to return throughout the year. The Easter Egg Stravaganza will take place at Rhondda Heritage Park Museum on 1 and 2 April, offering an Easter egg hunt alongside a fun fair, crafts and a bunny themed underground adventure.
Aberdare Festival returns to Aberdare Park on 23 May, bringing a full day of family entertainment including a fun fair, stalls, free activities and a range of UK tribute acts on stage.
Armed Forces Day Picnic in the Park will be held on 20 June at Ynysangharad War Memorial Park in Pontypridd. The event will include live entertainment and family friendly activities, giving communities the chance to show their appreciation for serving personnel, veterans and their families.
The annual Classic Car Show will take place at Rhondda Heritage Park on 27 June in partnership with the Glamorgan Classic Car Club. Visitors will be able to see a wide range of classic vehicles and enjoy activities suitable for all ages, including the DRAM ride as part of the Black Gold Underground Experience.
Food lovers can look forward to the return of the Big Welsh Bite on 1 and 2 August at Ynysangharad War Memorial Park. The event will feature more than 60 food and drink traders, alongside craft stalls, arena shows and a large fun fair.
Halloween Spooktacular returns to Rhondda Heritage Park from 28 to 30 October, with three days of spooky activities including the abandoned underground mine and a range of daytime and twilight sessions.
November will see a series of remembrance events, including the Festival of Remembrance Concert on 1 November and Remembrance Sunday on 8 November at Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, featuring a parade and service at the war memorial.
Santa’s Toy Mine will run at Rhondda Heritage Park from 21 November through to 24 December. The popular festive attraction includes a magical underground adventure and a chance to meet Santa. Tickets will go on sale in September and are expected to sell out quickly.
Christmas town centre events will also return across Rhondda Cynon Taf during November and December, with dates and locations to be announced closer to the time.
The year will end with the Nos Galan Road Races in Mountain Ash on 31 December. Now in its 68th year, the event will once again see thousands take to the streets for children’s, fun and elite races, alongside fireworks and the traditional mystery runner. Registration will open in September 2026.
Councillor Scott Emanuel, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “The 2026 events calendar is packed with lots of familiar favourites alongside our brand new RCT 90’s Summer Party! There is so much on offer, and we hope that even more people will join us this year to enjoy the range of fantastic events we have to offer here in Rhondda Cynon Taf. I’m looking forward to another year of fantastic entertainment in 2026!”
