This brand-new festival, made possible through funding from the Visit Wales St David’s Day Pilot Support Fund, draws inspiration from Dewi Sant’s final sermon in which he stated that the little things we do matter. The event transforms the stunning Botanic Garden into a landscape of discovery, where small moments of joy, creativity, and connection combine to create a truly spectacular experience.
“St David’s Day is such an important celebration of Welsh culture, heritage and national identity. We’re grateful to Visit Wales for selecting us for this pilot support fund, which has enabled us to bring this vision to life. At the National Botanic Garden of Wales, we want to bring people together and help create special lifelong memories from the amazing experiences that they have in this inspiring landscape.” – Dr Lucy Sutherland, Director – National Botanic Garden of Wales
A Trail of Little Wonders
At the heart of the festival is an interactive bilingual trail winding through the garden, with hidden delights at every turn. Musical performances will bring life to both the main stage and intimate spots throughout the site, featuring exciting emerging artists from BBC Horizons/Gorwelion – Wales’ premier scheme for developing contemporary music talent. These rising stars represent the future of Welsh music, bringing fresh sounds and energy to every corner of the garden.
“I jumped at the chance to work with the Garden of Wales for this festival, as it’s a place I’ve visited many times, admire so much, and feel the incredible space will lend itself to a really special celebration for St Davids Day. Incredible spaces, landscapes and architecture are so important as an unforgettable backdrop to the music. I know the plants will respond and appreciate our showcase of new talent too! Look out for our coverage on social media throughout the day @horizonscymru on Instagram – as well as more details about the music on display” – Bethan Elfyn, Project Manager – Horizons – BBC Wales and Arts Council
Rich Programme of Activities
Festival-goers can immerse themselves in:
• Interactive creative and performance workshops celebrating contemporary Welsh arts and traditions
• Silent disco experiences
• Nature & Craft activities for all ages
• Showcases of creative work by local schools, developed with professional practitioners in preparation for the festival
Artist in Residence: Nathan Wyburn
Adding to the festival’s magic, visual artist Nathan Wyburn will be in residence throughout February, creating ten artworks of Welsh icons using unexpected and surprising materials. Wyburn’s work perfectly fits the festival’s theme – transforming humble small materials into spectacular large-scale art.
“I’m very excited to be celebrating all things Welsh as a part of this festival. The garden is an Iconic destination in Wales, and my work focuses on icons! Expect a variety of ‘materials’ to be used from the landscape… soils and leaves, plus local produce sold in the gift shop like chocolate! It’s all going to be documented online for the whole country to see! I’m very excited!” Â –Â Nathan Wyburn
As well as unveiling the artworks he’s created, on the 1st March, visitors can watch Wyburn work on his final masterpiece live throughout the day. His process – turning little things into something magnificent – embodies what the festival is all about.
Celebrating Welsh Heritage
As a fully bilingual event, the Little Things Festival celebrates Wales’ language and culture, with performances and activities in both Welsh and English. The National Botanic Garden of Wales are also proud to be collaborating with Carmarthenshire based, Arts Care Gofal Celf – “We have been working in participatory arts for nearly 40 years and are delighted to be working with NBGW on this exciting event”
Visitor Information
Date:Â Sunday, 1st March
Time: 10:00am – 4:00pm
Location:Â National Botanic Garden of Wales, Llanarthne, Carmarthenshire
Admission:
• Adults: £12
• Children: £6
• Garden Members: Free
The Little Things Festival promises to be a memorable celebration of Welsh culture, creativity, and community. By bringing together music, art, performance, and hands-on experiences in the beautiful setting of the National Botanic Garden of Wales, the festival shows that when we cherish the little things, they can add up to something brilliant.
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