Green Man Festival

First established in 2003, the Green Man Festival has grown into a significant independent music, science, and arts event, typically attracting approximately 25,000 attendees each day. Annually held at the Glanusk estate near Crickhowell, Powys, the festival is inspired by a mythical Green Man figure, symbolizing rebirth and the cycle of growth. Each year, a new sculpture crafted from natural materials is created for a central tradition.

The long-standing tradition involves attendees placing wishes and hopes inside the Green Man figure, which is then ceremonially set alight during the closing ceremony. However, for the 2026 festival, which begins on August 20, this iconic burning ceremony has been cancelled. The difficult decision was made due to extreme weather and significant fire risks in drought conditions.

Despite the cancellation of the burning, the festival plans to maintain the spirit of the tradition by allowing wishes to be placed on the figure and promises a "very special" alternative for the closing ceremony to evoke excitement, connection, and hope for the future. In a gesture of appreciation, the festival has also donated 80 passes to firefighters from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.