The school summer holidays in Wales start on Monday, July 20, 2026, and a packed programme of events awaits families and friends across the country. From air shows and food festivals to castle adventures and outdoor cinema, there is something for everyone. Here are 14 brilliant activities to consider.
Cardiff Bay Family Fun Park – July 18 to August 31
Cardiff Bay hosts a family fun park with free entertainment including magic shows, princess sing-alongs, and character meet-and-greets. The programme runs daily and offers a breather for parents while kids enjoy the activities.
Wales Air Show, Swansea – July 25 and 26
The free Wales Air Show kicks off the summer holidays with daytime displays featuring the RAF Tutor, Strikemaster Pair, Spitfire, Hurricane, and Dakota historic aircraft. The nighttime show, Afterburn, includes pyrotechnic displays from the Otto Helicopter, Firebirds aerobatics, and a grand finale with 200 drones and fireworks.
Royal Welsh Show, Builth Wells – July 20 to 23
A must-visit event showcasing livestock competitions, Welsh food and drink, family entertainment, and big machines. The show offers shopping, sports, and a unique experience during the first week of the school holidays.
National Eisteddfod Genedlaethol 2026 – August 1 to 8
Europe's biggest touring festival celebrates 850 years in north Pembrokeshire with dancing, theatre, live music, and hobby horse racing. Highlights include Super Furry Animals' gig on the first Saturday, their first return to the Maes in three decades.
The Hundred Cricket, Cardiff – Various Dates
Welsh Fire's men's and women's teams play at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff for The Hundred, a fast-paced 100-ball cricket competition. Matches are shorter than traditional cricket and provide edge-of-your-seat action.
Big Welsh Bite, Pontypridd – August 1 and 2
Over 60 local and regional food producers showcase Welsh food, drink, and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy street food, artisan treats, farm-fresh produce, a funfair, and live entertainment. Also in the county, the RCT Summer Party on August 22 features S Club, Whigfield, East 17, and Heather Small. RCT Pride on July 25 includes a free festival with Courtney Act performing.
Go Wild at Welsh Castles – Various Dates
Cadw presents over 70 family-friendly events at castles, abbeys, and historic landmarks throughout July and August. Highlights include a Medieval Festival at Beaumaris Castle, nature-themed quests at Caerphilly Castle, and Hysterical History at Kidwelly Castle.
Summer of Play at Dinefwr, Llandeilo – July 18 to August 31
Activities include clay sculpting, guided walks, imaginative play in Newton House, and a life-sized bird-themed dolls' house called Pantri y Deryn. Outdoors, Tyre Tricks offers building and play with recycled tyres, plus sensory water play and a second-hand bookshop.
Milford Waterfront Street Food and Outdoor Cinema – Various Dates
Milford Waterfront in Pembrokeshire offers free or low-cost events throughout the holidays. The Milford Waterfront Weekender from August 14 to 16 features street food and live music. Outdoor cinema screenings include Finding Nemo and Back to the Future on July 17, and The Greatest Showman on August 21. Tickets cost from £12 per person or £44 for groups of four. Free Under the Bridge sessions for ages 11-17 run Tuesdays and Fridays from 6pm to 8pm.
MusicFest, Aberystwyth – July 18 to 25
A coastal music festival with over a dozen concerts and recitals featuring world-class performers, rising stars, and classical to contemporary works.
Cardigan River and Food Festival – August 15
Sample locally sourced food from independent Welsh producers while watching river activities on the River Teifi, including traditional coracle races and RNLI demonstrations.
Family-Friendly Ramble and Scramble Walks – Various Locations
Self-led walks starting and ending at railway stations in Burry Port, Llanelli, Pontarddulais, Fishguard, and Goodwick. Maps and fun activities are downloadable. Accompanied children travel free on Transport for Wales trains, with 2-for-1 entry at Cadw sites when travelling by train.
Fantastic Fete, St Donat's – July 31 to August 9
A giant village fête at St Donat's Castle over two weekends, featuring feasting, silly games, performances, and street food from around the world.
Big Pit's Holiday Fun, Blaenafon – All Summer
Explore mining community hobbies, pastimes, and sports with free family activities. Highlights include 'Hiya Butt! Bay' revisiting Miners' Fortnight, seaside crafts, and a 'pin the tail on the colliery horse' game.
