The Eryri National Park Authority would like to wish everyone a Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus as we begin a significant and celebratory year marking 75 years since the designation of Eryri as a National Park.
Jonathan Cawley, the National Park Authority’s Chief Executive said:
“This milestone year provides an important opportunity for reflection and renewal. As an Authority, 2026 will be a significant period as we undertake the review of Cynllun Eryri and the Local Development Plan. It is a time to consider where we are as an organisation, the challenges and opportunities we face, and how we plan responsibly and sustainably for the future of Eryri”.
The Authority’s official 75th anniversary will be celebrated on 18 October 2026, marking the date Eryri was formally designated as a National Park. A comprehensive programme of events and activities is being developed to mark the anniversary and to recognise the landscape, communities and partnerships that shape Eryri.
Celebrating Eryri’s Special Qualities
A commemorative coffee table book ‘Eryri National Park: A Living Legacy’ will be published by Yr Lolfa in the Summer, celebrating Eryri’s special qualities through written contributions from guest authors and fantastic photography of the National Park.
Working with local businesses
The Authority is also working in partnership with local businesses to mark the anniversary. Cwrw Nant will incorporate the 75th anniversary logo on its popular Cwrw’r Wyddfa brand throughout the year, while Pen Wiwar will release a limited-edition clothing item to celebrate the milestone.
Poetry Competitions
As part of the celebrations, poetry competitions will be held across three categories: Open, Under 18 and Under 11. The judging panel will include respected poets Ceri Wyn Jones, Meirion McIntyre Huws, Carwyn Eckley, Anni Llŷn, Casia Wiliam and Nia Powell.
The Chairing of the Poets ceremony will take place at Yr Ysgwrn on 21 October 2026, followed by a special Ymryson y Beirdd featuring a team of poets from the north of the Park competing against a team from the south.
Digital Passport
A new digital passport app will launch before the summer holidays, encouraging people to explore 75 accessible locations across Eryri. All sites included in the passport will be fully accessible, ensuring everyone can take part. The first 25 participants to complete the passport will receive a complimentary copy of the commemorative anniversary book.
Gŵyl Fawr Eryri
Building on the success of last year’s Gŵyl Fach Eryri events in Betws-y-Coed and Dolgellau, the Authority will host Gŵyl Fawr Eryri a larger celebration featuring musicians, artists, children’s activities, local food producers and opportunities to learn more about the work of the National Park Authority and its partners.
Further details of events and participation opportunities will be announced throughout the year.
Further information:
Terms and conditions for the poetry competitions can be found on our website.
For more information, please contact Ioan Gwilym, the Authority’s Head of Communications on 07900267506 or e-mail ioan.gwilym@eryri.llyw.cymru