Join us to celebrate the life and work of R S Thomas with poetry, talks and music over a weekend in his former parish

The 2026 R S Thomas Festival at St Michael’s Church, Eglwysfach, celebrates the legacy of the church’s famous former vicar-poet over three days of poetry, talks, walks, and music. This year’s festival takes particular inspiration from the wildlife and natural environment of the Dyfi valley, so significant to R S Thomas. It brings together new and established poets to compete in the ever-popular poetry competition.

At its heart, the festival is a community-led event – the result of the hard work, enthusiasm, and collaboration of people in and around Eglwysfach — and aims to raise funds for the upkeep of St Michael’s Church.

This year’s festival is held in affectionate memory of its remarkable founder, Joy Neal, who died in December 2024.

Description supplied by the event organiser.