Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod 1969

Held each July in the scenic Welsh town of Llangollen, the International Musical Eisteddfod is one of the world’s most remarkable cultural festivals. First launched in 1947 as a symbol of peace and reconciliation after the Second World War, the event brings together choirs, dancers, and musicians from across the globe in a joyful celebration of music and international friendship.

By 1969, the Eisteddfod had firmly established itself as a major fixture on the international music calendar. That year’s event welcomed performers from countries such as the USA, Hungary, India, and New Zealand, alongside strong Welsh and British entries. The festival’s signature Parade of Nations, where colourfully costumed performers march through the town, was a highlight then as it is today.

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Dee Valley, the 1969 Eisteddfod captured the spirit of the time—hopeful, diverse, and deeply rooted in community and cultural exchange. Whether performing in the main pavilion or dancing on the Maes, participants embodied the festival’s founding message: that music can unite people, even across vast distances and differences.