An eisteddfod is a Welsh festival that takes place every summer. The tradition goes back to the Middle Ages, when people had competitions in poetry and singing. The old chronicles say that people liked these popular festivals.
When England invaded Wales in 1283, these traditional competitions were forbidden.
Now, eisteddfods are held again, and this old Welsh tradition has returned. Today, an eisteddfod lasts a week, and thousands of people come to watch the competitions. Poems are read and songs are sung by choirs and singers. An eisteddfod is a great way to show a people's culture.
At the end of the festival, the best poet is crowned with a wreath of golden oak leaves on his head. Then people shout together a Welsh word which means "peace."
