A record crowd packed the town centre to watch the spectacular Parade of Nations pass by, marking another incredibly successful Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod.
Thousands braved the afternoon’s hot sun and temperatures over 30 degrees to see one of the festival’s most famous traditions brought to life with all its colour and vitality.
The latest annual celebration of international friendship, music and culture featured a cavalcade of competitors and performers from across the globe joining local groups in a vibrant procession from the Eisteddfod field through the heart of Llangollen.
This year’s festival welcomed participants from Burundi, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Estonia, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, the Isle of Man, the Netherlands, Norway, Rwanda, Sweden, Uganda, Ukraine and the United States, alongside performers from across Wales and the rest of the UK, highlighting the festival’s unique role in bringing the world together through music and dance.
The overseas performers were dressed in a dazzling array of colourful national costumes as they proudly carried their flags and symbols.
Led by Llangollen Silver Band and selected groups from Llangollen schools, the parade followed a route along Abbey Road, crossing the bridge into Bridge Street, turning into Chapel Street, Oak Street, Castle Street, Market Street, East Street and Parade Street before returning over the bridge and back to the Eisteddfod field.
Rapturous applause and cheers broke out as soon as the procession appeared on the famous Llangollen bridge and continued all the way around the town.
The Parade of Nations has become one of the defining images of the Eisteddfod, giving residents and visitors the opportunity to welcome performers proudly wearing their national costumes, carrying their flags and showcasing the rich diversity of cultures represented at the festival.
Eisteddfod Chair John Gambles said: “The Parade of Nations is one of the most uplifting moments of the Eisteddfod week. It is a wonderful celebration of the friendships, cultures and traditions that make our festival so special, and it gives the people of Llangollen the opportunity to offer a warm Welsh welcome to performers who have travelled from every corner of the world.
“Seeing so many nations walking side by side through the streets of Llangollen is a powerful reminder that music has the ability to unite people across borders and cultures.
“It was marvellous to see so many people lining the route on what was a very hot afternoon to see the parade go by and to enjoy once again the incredible atmosphere it created.”
Immediately following the parade, spectators were able to continue the celebrations by heading to the Eisteddfod field, where a special £5 admission ticket gives access to the popular Sound-Bridge Sessions on the Globe Stage, including BBC Radio Cymru – Rhys Mwyn’s Post Parade Party from 5.00pm.
There are still two action-packed days to enjoy at the 2026 Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod.
Saturday is Dance Day, with dance groups from around the world taking centre stage in the Pavilion and across the festival site. The day will be celebrated by one of Britain’s most celebrated dancers, Dame Darcey Bussell, who is joining the Eisteddfod as Guest Ambassador.
The festival concludes on Sunday with a full programme of choir competitions before the prestigious Choir of the World final, one of the world’s most respected choral competitions. The evening promises to bring another unforgettable Eisteddfod to a close as outstanding choirs from across the globe compete for one of international choral music’s highest honours.
