The Green Man Festival is an ethical, independent, non-corporate celebration of music, art and nature set in the stunning Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. With its vibrant line-up of artists, workshops and wellness activities, this festival offers something for everyone. From family-friendly events to late-night revelry, the Green Man Festival is a summer highlight not to be missed.
History of the Green Man Festival
The Green Man Festival began in 2003 as a small folk music event and has since grown into one of the UK’s most beloved festivals. Originally held in the Welsh mountains, its ethos of celebrating creativity, community and the natural world has remained unchanged. Over the years, it has expanded to include diverse musical genres, arts installations and wellness activities, all while staying true to its eco-friendly roots. Today, the festival attracts thousands of visitors from around the globe, creating a unique blend of cultural and natural immersion.
What to Expect at the Green Man Festival
At the Green Man Festival, you’ll experience an eclectic mix of live music, art installations and workshops. The main stage hosts top international and local acts, while smaller venues showcase emerging talent. The festival is family-friendly, offering a “Little Folk” area with activities for children and the “Somewhere” area caters to teenagers. Wellness enthusiasts can enjoy yoga sessions, meditation, and spa treatments in the Nature Nurture zone (best to book in advance).
Foodies will delight in the array of food stalls featuring locally sourced and sustainable options, including many Welsh dishes but also global cuisine. The festival also includes a science-focused area, Einstein’s Garden, where you can explore interactive exhibits and talks.
A pre-festival event is The Settlement, which allows you to arrive early and camp. It provides an extended opportunity to soak in the atmosphere. With its blend of culture, nature and fun, the Green Man Festival is truly an unforgettable experience.
The word ethical is taken seriously. The festival is not sponsored by any corporations and uses local businesses wherever possible. It takes the Green in its name seriously, for example using paper straws, avoiding single-use plastics and is powered by solar, hydrogen or hydrotreated vegetable oil. Traders have to meet ethical standards to participate.
The 2025 Green Man festival lineup will be found here.
Green Man Festival Location?
Green Man Festival Location?Where is Green Man festival? The festival is held in Crickhowell, a charming town in the heart of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. During the festival, you can savour traditional Welsh cakes, lamb dishes, craft beers and ciders.
Registration is straightforward through the festival’s official website (see below), with lots of different ticket prices depending on whether you want to camp, arrive by bike, park, park and ride, etc. Green Man festival tickets sell out many months in advance; do not try to go last minute, but you can get tickets for the Green man festival here.
Things To Do in Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park
Bannau Brycheiniog National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure. Hike the iconic Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales, for great views. Explore the park’s waterfalls, such as Sgwd yr Eira, where you can walk behind cascading water. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot red kites and otters. Don’t miss the chance to stargaze in this designated Dark Sky Reserve, offering unparalleled views of the night sky.
There is a dinosaur park with over 200 life-sized models and you can take a ride a steam train on the Brecon Mountain Railway. In addition, history buffs will enjoy the castles and standing stones scattered throughout the area.
Similar Wellness Festivals
Other notable wellness festivals include Wanderlust in the United States, BaliSpirit Festival in Indonesia, and the Shambala Festival in the UK. These events combine music, yoga and mindfulness, much like the Green Man Festival, creating enriching experiences for attendees.
Flights and Getting to London
Direct flights are available to London airports from Frankfurt Airport (FRA), Miami International Airport (MIA), John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York, and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
To reach the festival from London, take a train from Paddington Station to Abergavenny (better to change at Hereford than Newport to avoid overcrowding), followed by a short shuttle bus ride (except on Saturdays) to the festival site. There are also National Express buses and a company called Red Fox offer cycling options.
UK Time
The UK is 5 hours ahead of New York.
More Information on Brecon Beacons
Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park Tourism Website: Official website for tourism in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park
