'We don't speak Welsh - this is why everyone should still come to the Eisteddfod'

From August 3-10, the National Eisteddfod is being held at Ynysangharad War Memorial Park in Pontypridd , Rhondda Cynon Taf. Wales' largest cultural festival is known for its celebration of the Welsh language showcased though art, poetry, music and dance. The Eisteddfod being held in Rhondda Cynon Taf means that it has come to a place with one of the lowest percentage of Welsh speakers in the total population.

According to the most recent annual population survey by the ONS, only 16.4% of people in RCT can speak Welsh. This likely means that more non-Welsh speakers than ever will be heading to the Maes.

WalesOnline spoke to non-Welsh speakers and some Welsh learners at the festival, who all said that they had enjoyed their experience. For the latest analysis of the biggest stories , sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here Read more: I went to my home Eisteddfod and it left me wishing one thing Read more: Wynne Evans wants to 'make Wales proud' as he joins Strictly Come Dancing 2024 Julie and Tony Dicken, from Church Village, both emphasised that they had found the Eisteddfod to be very welcoming. Julie said: " It’s been a really good experience.

I don’t think it matters that we’re not Welsh speakers. It seems very inclusive here. It’s a really lovely environment, really family oriented, with lots going on.

" "There’s been a lot more English spoken here than I thought there was going to be. When you go to any of the stalls, people might start talking to you in We.