Summer fete is bustling and busy despite the rain

* The circus skills workshop in full swing.

Despite the patchy weather, today's Llangollen Summer Fete appeared to be one of the best attended in years.

A major focus this year has been widening community involvement across all age groups and this saw a significant contribution from students and young adults at Ysgol Dinas Brân, who helped rebrand the event with a more lively and relevant image. 

Older students from the Sixth Form worked on the branding and social media through March and April, taking time away from the start of May for their exams. 

A popular new feature for 2026 was The Adventure Zone, developed with support from TNR Outdoors, which included climbing, archery and axe throwing.

Following feedback from local residents, organisers significantly expanded the number of stalls, with a much broader range of crafts, activities, food, gifts and local businesses represented.

Visitors were also able to enjoy reduced-price access to Plas Newydd Historic House and Gardens.

The popular Circus Arts School workshop returned and proved a big hit with the children.

Entertainment included performances by Llangollen Silver Band, a number of teenage bands and Llangollen Pantomime Group who trailed their forthcoming 2027 production of Sleeping Beauty by singing a selection of numbers from previous shows.

Details of the entertainment schedule, raffle prizes, talks, workshops and activities were all available on the new fete map.

The programme around The Caban featured wine tasting sessions and wellness talks and walks.

Special thanks were given to Linguassist for their generous support, which helped the fete introduce marquees -  a real asset on a day of intermittent rain showers.

* The town's new Mayor, Damon Richards-Gwilliam, and Deputy Mayor, Charlie Jones, officially open the fete.

* Some opening music comes from Llangollen silver Band.

* Plenty of artwork on display at this stall.

* The Deputy Mayor sings with her backing band.

* North Wales Fire & Rescue Service had an engine on display.

* ... which prompted young Eleanor to take the controls.

* A slimy offering on the Ysgol Y Gwernant stall.

* Llangollen Food Share had a busy time offering their tasty treats.

* Anna of Anna's Cafe offered a selection of delicious delights.

* Karen's Dance Classes pupils go through their paces.

* The Gamelin Band take the stage.

* A selection of songs comes from Llangollen Pantomime Group.

* The fete stayed busy throughout the afternoon despite the regular rain showers.

* The climbing wall was one of the afternoon's big hits.