The challenges of recent times have reminded us of the things we hold dear — ein gilydd, ein bro a’n byd — each other, our communities, and our world. That’s why we were determined to do good things to celebrate St David’s Day on 1 March 2021, showcasing to the world the best Wales has to offer - and we invited the world to join in.
Gŵyl Dewi was a four-day digital feast of good things – the epic sights, stories and sounds Wales pulled together to celebrate our national day with the world. A global audience of millions logged on to enjoy music premieres; the first-ever sign language version of our anthem, Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau; slow TV aerial film across our sumptuous landscapes; the Welsh night sky; yoga sessions; and a smattering of stars, including Luke Evans, Cerys Matthews and celebrity chef Bryn Williams.
We discovered how our globally responsible nation is building up to COP26, planting 25 million trees in Uganda and creating our very own National Forest; the Urdd brought together in song young people from Wales and the University of Alabama at Birmingham; there was a special TED Talk by Sophie Howe, the world’s first Future Generations Commissioner; and there were global academic and business collaborations as the world joined in the celebrations for the national day.
In his final sermon, St David said 'Gwnewch y pethau bychain – do the small things', which became a national rallying call for Gŵyl Dewi 2021 that was shared with the world. Bring on 2022!
