There’s no better time to explore Mid Wales than in the summer. With its rolling hills, welcoming towns and deep-rooted rural traditions, the region bursts into life with festivals, fairs and open-air gatherings. Whether you’re planning weekend adventures or seeking authentic Welsh experiences, here’s your guide to the best summer events in Mid Wales 2025.
July Highlight:
Royal Welsh Show
21–24 July, Llanelwedd (Builth Wells)
Wales’s largest agricultural showcase. Expect livestock, equine events, forestry, crafts, trade stands, food halls and countryside demonstrations – a must-see celebration of rural life.
August Highlights:
Hay Castle Summer Events
Art exhibitions run throughout July, August and September.
See the full programme at Hay Castle: haycastletrust.org
Elan Valley Kayaking Tour
5 August, Elan Valley
Guided kayaking on the Elan Reservoir with local history commentary. Booking via Elan Valley Leisure elanvalleyleisure.co.uk.
Brecon Jazz Festival
8–10 August, Brecon
Three days of jazz concerts, street acts, cafés and pop-ups—a musical weekend with heart.
Elan Valley Dam Anniversary
24–25 August, Elan Valley
A special commemorative weekend for the 120th anniversary of the dams, with guided coach tours inside Pen y Garreg Dam. There will be artisan stalls, rural Welsh crafts and local food.
Talgarth Festival of the Black Mountains
24–25 August, Talgarth
30th anniversary celebrations with food, live music, craft stalls, duck races and more.
World Bog Snorkelling Championship
24 August, Llanwrtyd Wells
Yes, you read that right! Bog snorkelling at its best; quirky, very muddy and uniquely Welsh.
Planning Tips: