It's time to have some fun in Bridgend

Bridgend County is not only famous for it's beautiful stretch of coastline and beaches, it's also well known for hosting great events month on month.  
Each month visitors and locals alike are spoilt for choice when it comes to looking for weekend activities to do.  Whether you want to participate in some outdoor activities, spectate some World-class sporting events or want to enjoy a good old sing along at a music festival Bridgend can offer it all. 
This August and September sees one of Wales' biggest cycling events taking place in Porthcawl Town, there's also a very foodie "Feastival" taking place at the end of September and the Elvis Festival, possibly one of the UK's quirkiest festivals of the year!
So here's our quick round-up of some of the best events takings place over the next two months.
August  two standout events is the Garw Carnival and Dunetreka.
Saturday, 17th August -  Garw Carnival & Rural Fair
This year's carnival theme is "a walk down memory lane".  So we'd recommend a scrummage in the attic before heading off to another fun summer carnival in Blaengarw.  A grand procession through the streets of Blaengarw, rural stalls, live bands and a talent show.  Lee Jukes has announced that he will be hosting the 2013 Garw Carnival.
Sunday 18th August, 11am - 4pm - Dunetreka
The nature reserves in Bridgend are some of the uniquest in Europe for flora and sand dunes.  Explore the world of nature conservation and engage with the natural environment in the Kenfig National Nature Reserve.  Dunetreka is free entry.
Activities include:  Seeing some mysterious water beasts, bird watching, treasure hunt, moth tracking, reserve safari tours, meet the critters, storytelling, guided walks, build and paint your own bird box, local crafts stalls and conservation groups, dog agility challenge.
September is all about cycling and music...
The fun doesn't stop in September either with one of the UK's largest cycling tournaments coming to Bridgend County, plus there's a whole load of music taking place with the World's biggest Elvis festival and the Porthcawl Rock Festival.   
15 September, 2013 - Porthcawl CRIT Cycle Race
Expect to see hundreds of cyclists turn out along Porthcawl seafront for one of the major Welsh cycling events of the year. The event is expected to attract hundreds of visitors.
The Porthcawl Seafront Criterium will feature a series of exciting races through the town centre on a classic closed-road 1.2km street circuit, culminating in the Senior Welsh Circuit Race Championships.
It's the first time that cycle racing has been brought to Porthcawl in more than 10 years, offering riders fully closed, fun and fast-paced street racing along one of south Wales' most famous seafront settings in front of the crowds, and a chance to finish the road circuit season in style.
The event is ideal for families and spectators interested in watching the thrills of top quality, adrenalin-fuelled cycle racing whilst soaking up the excitement of a classic seafront town before the summer ends.
Starting at 3pm for the younger races the grand finale to the day will be at 7pm when the Welsh Senior Circuit Race Championships sets off; an elite race scheduled to attract some of the World's top cyclists.
Sunday 15th September, 2013 - Porthcawl Rock Festival

Pull out those leather trousers and get yourself down to the Hi Tide Inn to enjoy a day of great music by the sea.  Visitors will get to see an wide variety of bands, with food and drinks being served throughout the day.  The event is free entry, starts at 12:00pm until 7:00pm. 

 
Friday 27th September- Sunday 29th September
 

Elvis Festival Porthcawl by Visit Wales ©

Porthcawl Elvis Festival- Now in its 10th year, the Elvis Festival is one of the largest of its kind in the world and invites visitors to enjoy a weekend of rock 'n' roll in the Welsh seaside town of Porthcawl.
There are a number of Elvis events taking place as part of the Festival at Porthcawl's Grand Pavilion including The Three Kings Show, The Elvies, and Red Alert, the best Elvis Showband in the world. In addition, the Hi Tide Inn in Porthcawl will host over 100 shows over the weekend, and over twenty other venues in and around the town will host events as part of the Fringe Festival.
 
 28th September -  Bridgend Feastival 
A visit to FEASTIVAL must be in your families' diary for the Autumn.
While some food festivals provide plenty of opportunities to sample different foods, Feastival does this and lots more.
Feastival this year celebrates loads of foodie stuff activities for children to interact with, they can eat it, make it, love it, laugh at it. Activities include leak lobbing, Spaghetti Bridge building and wrapping an egg in protective packaging for a 10 metre drop; the egg that survives wins a prize for its packager, Food of course.
When you visit Bridgend town centre this autumn you can meet with over 60 food traders on the streets, many providing tasters and produce for you to buy at the Feastival.  Get here early as we would not want you to miss out on some great tasting food.
Celebrity chefs display their skills in the demonstration areas and this year is no exception. Check out the website for up to date news on who else will be demonstrating their talents this year. Local restaurants will be offering food for you to try from different eras.
Each year Feastival entertains the visitor with art work with a difference and this year is no exception. The streets of the town come alive from Punch and Judy shows for the younger children, "whose got my sausages" to seeing a bunch of grapes on stilts, perhaps if you are lucky you will get to taste some as well, you also need to watch out for the hula hooping carrot around the next corner and animals performing acrobatics up high, try this out for yourself if you dare.
Music will be everywhere to suit all ages so come along and bring all the family for a fun day out with food.
So what are you waiting for if you like food and a great day out, go to our website and sign up for regular updates on all that is happening.
And make sure it is in your diary….
 

It's now or never! Here's your chance to read the complete guide to the greatest Elvis festival in the World which takes place in Bridgend.  And with so many other Elvis's in attendance, there's no chance of feeling "lonesome tonight"... 

An Elvis look alike at Trecco Bay, Porthcawl. © Crown copyright (2013) Visit Wales

As 10 year anniversaries go, Porthcawl probably has the the best one on the market! This September will see the Elvis Festival in Porthcawl celebrate a decade of hosting the world's biggest Elvis festival!
This festival is suitable for everyone, whether you're a diehard Elvis fan, or you just enjoy one or two of his well-known hits like Hound Dog and Jailhouse Rock, you'll be rock 'n' roll dancing before you can say "The King".
Accessible Location... 
A train trip no more than two and a half hours from London and Birmingham this September will take you to one of the quirkiest festival in Europe.
Origins
There's no place like Porthcawl for an Elvis Festival, as Peter Philips, the founder, says, "the Welsh know how to throw a party!"
Born from a one-off documentary, the founder Peter Philips wanted to save the iconic Grand Pavilion. He probably didn't think that a small film would change the future of Porthcawl, Bridgend. Now there are more than 30,000 visitors during the festival and the town transforms everything, from shops to hotels, into an Elvis celebration.

Elvis fans infront of the legendary Porthcawl Pavilion. © Crown copyright (2013) Visit Wales

"Before Elvis, there was nothing" - John Lennon

Expect to see lots and lots of Elvis lookalikes!  The 10th anniversary will be bigger then ever, it's already one of the largest festivals of its kind in the World. There are plenty of special Elvis events going on, from singing competitions such as The Best Festival Elvis Competition to shows by well-known Elvis show bands (one hundred of them to be precise) in pubs, hotels or at the Grand Pavilion itself.
But what really makes the Festival amazing is how involved the whole community gets into this annual event. School children make artwork dedicated to the King and Hamlet undergoes a Elvis change. In the words of twice mayor, Phil Rixon, "The Festival really makes the town busier than it's heyday in the 1950's".
An Elvis Festival!!! What exactly happens?
When is it?
27th-29th of September. The Festival officially launches at 12.30pm on Friday 27th of September with a Champagne reception at The Heartbreak Hotel where you can meet some of the artists and celebrities taking part in the Festival. (Only open to VIP Ticket Holders and Festival guests).

Children getting involved. © Crown copyright (2013) Visit Wales

Is it suitable for everyone?
Absolutely. The Elvis Festival is one of the few music festivals that is great for families (and their kids) to visit. Whether you're a new couple looking to try something different or a full-sized family, there's something here for everyone.
What we recommend? 
Elvis FunRun - TBA
A one mile walk in the shoes of the King for charity.
The Elvis Gospel Show - 12.30pm 29 Sept

Elvis tribute act / impersonator performing
Porthcawl. By Visit Wales ©

For classic Elvis Fans who know the early work, the Elvies Gospel Winner 2010, Dean Mack, will be preforming some of the good ol' Gospel music that catapulted Elvis to his place among the stars.
Best Festival Elvis Competition - 2.30pm 27 Sept & 12pm 28 Sept 
With two different Heats and a Grand Final, the Best Festival Elvis Competition is all about finding the best ETA in Europe. The question you'll have to ask yourself is: Who is the best Elvis?
The Three Kings - 7.30pm 27 Sept
Three shows in one, this show is headlined by Ben Thompson, the Winner of the 2012 Best Festival Elvis Competition, and Red Alert, the Legendary Porthcawl House Band.

© Crown copyright (2013) Visit Wales

The Elvies - 7.30pm 28 Sept
The world renown Elvies Awards will be taking place at this year's Festival! It's the leading show for Elvis Tribute Artists and is not something you should even consider missing.
Elvis at the Movies - 3.00pm 29 Sept
Presented by all great Elvis Tribute Artists, Elvis at the Movies perform songs from all the Movies that Elvis starred in (which we all know is quite extensive), and is presented by Mike Nova.
Trilogy - 7.30pm 29 Sept
The last event of the Festival, Trilogy is a full three sets of Sun Studios in the 50s followed by a '68 Special and a full Vegas Show - all backed by Red Alert.
Not just a festival, a great place to visit!

Bridgend is also one of Britain's best know golfing destination. © Crown copyright (2013) Visit Wales

Bridgend County, where Porthcawl is located, will leave you spoilt for choice. If you're looking for some place to relax, the beaches of Bridgend will leave you speechless. White sandy beaches for noontime napping are on every corner. If you're looking for adventure, Cressey's Surf Academy can provide you with some fantastic surfing adventures.
But if you aren't so much into the ocean, Adventure Wales has got everything under control. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie that thrives on Quad biking or a relaxed golfer, Adventure Wales and Bridgend Bites have a selection of activities for everyone.
For a great mix, you'll be thankful to know that the Bridgend Feastival is the same weekend as our favourite Elvis festival! Situated in the small town of Bridgend, this foodie festival has everything from chef tastings to family spaghetti bridge building. It's the perfect addition to a weekend of Elvis fun in Porthcawl!
Places to Stay
Eventhough the majority of the hotels in Porthcawl are already booked through this famous festival, Bridgend offers some of the most beautiful places to stay for a weekend for families, large groups, couples or even the lone ranger!
The Family Home Away From Home: Bryngarw House
Situated in the middle of 113 acres of country, Bryngarw House is perfect for a family looking to find a place to call home while partying it up Elvis-style.
The Weekend Getaway For Adventurous Groups: Masons Arms
Ideal for the travel group, Mason Arms is two minutes from the Bridgend Designer Outlet and ready for Elvis fans to come pouring in!
The Hideout for Two: Ewenny Woods
Hidden in the small village of Ewenny, this lovely guesthouse is a great place to cozy up at night after spending a full day out in Porthcawl, decked out in Elvis gear.
The Lone Ranger Base: Heron's Brook Bed & Breakfast
Heron's Brook Bed & Breakfast, perfect for the solo traveller, is ready for the Elvis Festival. With beautiful views from every window, you'll fall asleep to "Always on my Mind" every night.
Best way to get tickets
Tickets for The Elvis Porthcawl Festival, sponsored by Hi Tide, usually sell out in late July, so make your way over to Elvies or fill out this form!
So to get you all excited here's the wonder of YouTube with a quick song...

Jamie Smith's Mabon

Friday 1 - Sunday 3 March 2013, the Grand Pavilion once again plays host to this specatacular weekend of traditional dance, song and music from the Celtic countries, now in its 11th year. As one of the largest events of its type in Wales, the festival offers concerts, dances, sessions & workshops featuring some of the finest performers nationally and internationally. With March 1st falling on the Friday, this year, the festival opens with a special St David's Day Concert featuring BBC Wales personality Frank Hennessy with The Hennessys along with Bridgend Male Voice Choir and superb support. Saturday's headliners are the outstanding Welsh band Jamie Smith's Mabon, who have just released a well received CD. Amongst a host of others, Irish Dance will feature with the spectacular dance troupe Absolutely Legless & their musicians.Full details of all artists and programme can be found by visiting
www.cwlwmceltaidd.com or from 01656 766667

Porthcawl Interceltic Festival

Once again musicians, singers and dancers are descending on Porthcawl for another - The Cwlwm Celtaidd Celtic Festival of Wales with Celtic music, song and dance from Wales, Scotland, Ireland, Cornwall, Brittany and the Isle of Man.
A weekend of non-stop concerts, dances, workshops, legendary sessions and Saturday's colourful "Parade of the Celts" through Porthcawl town centre finishing at the Grand Pavilion.
With our new base in the Grand Pavilion with two indoor stages under one roof on the town seafront, the festival is close to all the amenities associated with Porthcawl, one of Wales' premier seaside resorts, including the town centre, beaches, coastal paths & dunes, golf clubs & outdoor pursuit centres. A great weekend not to be missed with full details at www.cwlwmceltaidd.com
Weekend, Day and Evening tickets are available from the Box Office.
Ticket Office: 01656 815995

Derek Smith

Bryngarw has a series of fab free events on Sunday's in August, pay for car parking only. The 'Music in the Garden' event on the 21st August  stars one of Bridgend's most successful guitarists, Derek Smith performing live at Bryngarw Country Park in Brynmenyn, Bridgend from 2.30 - 4.30pm.
Derek will be joined by two of his Mabon musicians, Jasper Salmon on fiddle and Tim Orrell on wooden flute and whistles. Come and enjoy a family day out for an acoustic performance of the interceltic roots fusion music that is the trademark of this internationally successful band.
Join us and enjoy outdoor live music being performed upon the lawn in front of Bryngarw House, with this year's line-up offering sounds to suit everyone's taste:
 Sunday 21 August - Roots fusion with Derek Smith (Mabon) and friends
Sunday 28 August - Light classical with Absolute Zero Viola Quartet
Please note that there is no wet weather cover or seating provided, but you are welcome to bring your own chairs or picnic rugs. Due to this being an outdoor event; it is weather dependant, therefore we advise you to contact Bryngarw House on 01656 729009 prior to starting your journey.
 There will be children's entertainers including balloon modelling and stilt walking. Light snacks available at the park café.
 Admission is free with a car park charge of £2.50 for all events which are set on the beautiful lawns at the award-winning 113 acres of spectacular parkland that boasts Bridgend County Borough Council's largest picturesque landscape.
BryngarwCountryPark is part of the 'OneHistoricGarden' project linking heritage, gardens and opportunities acrossSouth Wales, and is part-funded by the EU's Convergence European Regional Development Fund through Visit Wales and the Welsh Government and supported by The Valleys Heart and Soul of Wales campaign.
For more information, contact Corporate Marketing Assistant Kelly Jones on (01656) 642094. Email: kelly.jones2@bridgend.gov.uk Website: www.bridgend.gov.uk