On the site you will find information about the city of Bangor, what is happening here as well as some of its background and history. There are links to information about the High Street, to the various attractions in the Bangor area and to forthcoming events in the City. You can also learn about the Bangor City Council, who is your local Councillor and what services the Council provides for the community. There is the timetable for Council and Committee meetings and the minutes of those meetings.
Hwb Dinas Bangor
The Hwb is open to everyone and is a safe space where you can get help and advice on a wide range of social and wellbeing matters.
Find out more
Transforming Towns project
Transforming Bangor
Twin City friendship
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As part of Bangor’s milestone 1500th anniversary celebrations, BLAS Pontio will present a vibrant and dynamic street performance called 'Y Rali', which will weave through the heart of the city on Saturday, 12 July 2025.
The event begins at 1pm at the Clock Tower on Bangor High Street, where audiences will gather before joining a colourful procession leading to the Pontio Arts Centre, culminating in a live music finale at 2 pm.
Featuring the creative talents of the BLAS Hŷn and BLAS Bach groups, this performance celebrates the city of Bangor, the Welsh language, and the area’s rich cultural heritage. The promenade-style event promises theatrical moments, community spirit, and immersive storytelling as it brings the high street to life.
The celebration concludes with a special musical performance by Hedydd Ioan at Pontio’s plaza, adding a fitting artistic flourish to the occasion.
Delivered in collaboration with Menter Iaith Bangor and supported by the National Lottery Community Fund, the event is free and open to all.
Manon Gwynant, BLAS Director said: ‘The BLAS cast have been in their element in creating a brand-new show together and have set out to put their unique stamp on it in every way. It is full of colour and pride, and is very much a celebration of what the Welsh language and Bangor mean to them today’.
Mared Huws from Pontio Bangor said “BLAS is full of talented, dedicated, and genuinely likeable young people. I’m incredibly proud of their creativity and the outstanding work that they produce”.
Meirion Owen from Menter Iaith Bangor added: “This is a powerful opportunity to celebrate our recent history — the Welsh language and culture brought to life through passionate, memorable music that sparked real change in Bangor and across Wales.”
Dr Martin Hanks, Bangor City Director, added: “Y RALI is a wonderful reflection of Bangor’s energy, creativity, and deep-rooted sense of community.
“As we celebrate 1500 years of history, it’s inspiring to see young people leading the way, honouring our heritage while shaping the future of our city. This is exactly the spirit we hoped to capture in our anniversary year.”
BLAS Pontio’s performance ‘Y Rali’ is set to be a standout highlight in Bangor’s anniversary calendar - a joyful and heartfelt tribute to the city’s past, present, and future.
Picture shows the crew from the BLAS Hyn group.
Blas is Pontio’s flagship youth arts participation program, based at the Arts & Innovation Centre at Bangor University. Since their launch in 2015, BLAS host weekly drama workshops for a younger audience, years 3 and 4 (5pm – 6pm) and year 5 and 6 (6.15pm – 7.15pm) on Monday evenings and then years 7,8 and 9 (6.30pm – 7.30pm) with years 10 to 13 (7.45pm – 8.45pm on Wednesday evenings. For more information, or to join the new term in September, call 01248 382828, or please visit their social media sites below:
16 June 2025
A remarkable community service is quietly transforming lives in the heart of a North Wales city. Hwb Dinas Bangor is a collaborative initiative led by Bangor City Council, alongside voluntary sector partners and local community groups, which offers essential health, wellbeing, and social support to residents in a compassionate and welcoming environment.
With a strong ethos of inclusion and empowerment, Hwb Dinas Bangor acts as a lifeline for individuals and families facing a variety of challenges. Whether someone is struggling with food insecurity, housing instability, mental health issues, or simply seeking guidance, the Hwb provides a supportive space to find real help.
Lisa Goodier, Head of Partnerships & Transformation, Bangor City Council, said:
“Hwb Dinas Bangor reflects what’s possible when a community comes together to care for one another. We’re proud to support a space that delivers dignity, support, and hope to those who need it most.”
A Hub of Support and Opportunity
Through a network of trusted delivery partners, the Hwb offers a wide range of services, including:
This wide-ranging support ensures that everyone, from young families to elderly residents, can access the help they need under one roof.
A Space for the Community
In addition to support services, Hwb Dinas Bangor is also a space for connection. Local groups and organisations can book meeting rooms or host clubs in a welcoming setting equipped with large screens, laptop connectivity, and free Wi-Fi, making the venue the ideal setting for in-person or virtual gatherings.
All space is free to hire, removing barriers between organisations and residents.
The Hwb is located in the former Caffi Hafan building, which is owned by Bangor City Council.
Easy to Access, Ready to Help
Hwb Dinas Bangor represents the power of community collaboration, bringing together services, resources, and compassion to make a meaningful difference. Whether you need a helping hand or want to get involved, the Hwb is here for you.
Getting support is simple and accessible:
Drop in during opening hours: Monday–Friday, 9.30 am - 4 pm
Self-refer or refer others via email: hwb.hub@bangorcitycouncil.com
Call: 01248 352421 during office hours or leave a message anytime
Looking to give back?
Hwb Dinas Bangor are on the lookout for passionate, community-minded people to join their team of volunteers. Whether you can spare a few hours a week or more, there’s a place for you at the Hwb.
From helping local residents navigate services to supporting events, offering a friendly face and simply being someone to talk to, volunteers are the heartbeat of Hwb Dinas Bangor.
Volunteering at the Hwb is a chance to make a real difference, meet amazing people, and gain valuable skills, all while supporting your local community.
Ready to get involved? Please contact hwb.hub@bangorcitycouncil.com or call 01248 352421.
Picture shows: Carwyn Davies Administration Officer, Lisa Goodier Head of Partnerships & Transformation and Dr Martin Hanks City Director, from Bangor City Council.
30 May 2025
Bangor's city centre was a sea of flags and cheers as thousands of residents and visitors lined the streets to witness a grand military parade, a highlight of the city's 1,500th anniversary celebrations.
The event gathered service personnel, veterans, cadets, and community groups, showcasing a vibrant display of civic pride and heritage.
Led proudly by Shenkin IV, the iconic goat mascot of the 1st Battalion, The Royal Welsh, the parade showcased an impressive array of regimental units. Taking part were troops from The Royal Welsh, the Welsh Guards, RAF Valley, and 106 Squadron medical reservists. They were joined by the renowned British Army Band from Catterick, who gave a rousing performance as the parade marched through the streets of Bangor.
Additionally, numerous veterans and more than 100 cadets, some travelling from as far as Birkenhead and South Shropshire, participated in the impressive procession, demonstrating the broad support for the city's historic milestone.
Dr Martin Hanks, Bangor City Director, expressed his gratitude to the community: “We were thrilled to see such an incredible turnout for the military parade. It was a powerful reminder of Bangor’s enduring spirit and the pride we all share in our city’s remarkable history. Thank you to everyone who came out to support this event.
“This is just one of many events planned throughout 2025 to mark our 1,500th anniversary. We encourage everyone to join us in the coming months as we continue to celebrate Bangor’s rich heritage and vibrant community.”
The parade is part of a year-long programme of events organised by Bangor City Council in collaboration with local organisations, schools, and community groups. Highlights include the Bangor Summer Festival, History Festival, artistic performances, and a spectacular firework display, all designed to honour the city's past, present, and future.
For more information on upcoming events and how to get involved, visit the Bangor City Council website or follow Bangor 1500 page on social media channels.
facebook.com/profile.php?id=6156817363...
For further information please contact Lyn Parry at Bangor city Council on 01248 564168.
For any media enquiries, please contact Medi Parry-Williams on 07464097587.
Bangor City Council is pleased to announce Cllr Medwyn Hughes as the new Mayor of Bangor following the official Mayor Making ceremony held on Monday, 12 May. Cllr Hughes succeeds Cllr Gareth Parry, who has served with dedication over the past year.
Cllr Hughes, who previously held the role of Deputy Mayor, brings a wealth of experience to the mayoralty, including his time as former Chair of Cyngor Gwynedd. His longstanding commitment to public service and community development is expected to shape his year in office.
Cllr Gareth Parry reflected on his term, saying: “It has been an immense honour to serve the people of Bangor as Mayor. I am proud of what we have achieved together as a community over the past year, and I wish Cllr Hughes every success as he takes on this important role.”
In accepting the position, Cllr Medwyn Hughes said: “I am deeply honoured to be elected as Mayor of Bangor. It’s a privilege to represent such a vibrant and historic city. I look forward to working closely with councillors, residents, and community organisations to continue building a bright future for Bangor.”
This year holds special significance for the city, as Bangor celebrates the 1,500th anniversary of its founding. The year-long programme of events marks a momentous milestone in the city's history, bringing communities together to honour Bangor’s rich heritage and enduring spirit. As Mayor, Cllr Hughes will play a key role in leading and supporting these commemorations.
The Mayor Making ceremony, a formal tradition in the civic calendar, was attended by councillors, local dignitaries, and community representatives. It marked a smooth transition in leadership and reaffirmed the Council’s ongoing commitment to civic engagement and local progress.
A Fun-Filled Family Day on Bangor’s Beloved Pier is planned for Sunday, 18th May.
Join the festivities on Sunday, 18 May, as Bangor’s iconic Garth Pier marks its 129th birthday with a lively community celebration from 12pm to 5pm. The event promises something for everyone, with live music, delicious local food and drink stalls, and exciting children’s entertainment, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Menai Strait.
The itinerary of the day is as follows:
12pm: Warm welcome
12.10pm: 12.40pm: Menai Bridge brass band
12.50pm - 1.20pm: Ukrainian Group
1.30pm - 1.50pm: Academi West End Academy
2pm – 2.20pm: Wynne Roberts – the Welsh Elvis and Kerala Dancers
2.30pm – 3pm: Encor
3.10pm – 3.30pm: Aloha Ukelele Band
3.40pm – 4.20pm: Zoe a Nidd (of Whole of the Moon)
4.30pm – 4.45pm: Karen Ann
4.45pm to end Wynne Roberts – The Welsh Elvis
Garth Pier, originally opened on May 14, 1896, has stood the test of time and remains one of Bangor’s most cherished landmarks. Following extensive renovations in the 1980s, a £1 million restoration project began in August 2017 to secure the pier's future for many years to come. Funded by Bangor City Council, the project included strengthening the structure and adding new handrails on the pier deck. Thanks to community support, the pier is now more vibrant than ever, attracting over 128,000 visitors in 2024 alone. In 2022, it proudly won the Pier of the Year award.
The views from Garth Pier are truly one of its highlights. As you stroll along its 1,500-foot length, you’re treated to sweeping panoramas across the Menai Strait, with Snowdonia’s mountains rising in the distance on one side and Anglesey’s coastlines stretching out on the other.
On clear days, you can spot Penrhyn Castle, sailing boats drifting by, and even a glimpse of Puffin Island. The sunsets here are especially breathtaking, casting golden light across the water and turning the pier into one of the most photogenic spots in North Wales.
Behind the scenes, the Friends of Bangor Garth Pier, a charity established in 2022, has been instrumental in the pier’s resurgence. With a dedicated team of over 70 volunteers, they manage the entrance kiosk and gift shop while promoting a strong sense of community stewardship.
Avril Wayte, Chair of the Friends of Bangor Garth Pier, said: “We’re incredibly proud of how far the pier has come, and our annual birthday party is a wonderful way to celebrate the pier’s history, its future, and the people who make it so special. It’s all about community, colour, and keeping this incredible place full of life.”
Dr Martin Hanks, City Director from Bangor City Council added: “We’re delighted to be celebrating the Pier’s birthday as part of the 1500th year and we look forward to welcoming the community to mark this special occasion.”
Explore the Pier’s Unique Offerings:
Entrance Kiosk: Welcoming guests daily 9am–5pm
Pavilion Café: Open daily, serving fresh food and drinks all year round
Friends of Bangor Garth Pier Shop: Local crafts and souvenirs, open 7 days a week
Strait o Gymru: Local food specialties, open Friday - Tuesday
Whistlestop Café: Seasonal treats and crabbing gear
Traditional Sweet Shop and Arcade: A nostalgic stop for kids and adults alike
Julie’s Art Gallery: Longest-established business on the pier, showcasing original artwork
Admission to the birthday event is just £2 for adults and £1 for children, with proceeds supporting the continued care and development of the pier.
Picture shows Garth Pier, Bangor.
For further information please contact Lyn Parry at Bangor City Council on 01248564168.
For any media enquiries, please contact Medi Parry-Williams on 07464097587.
30 April 2025
Yesterday saw the city come alive with 1,500 banners going up across Bangor – marking the official start of a year-long celebration of our city’s 1,500th anniversary! ???
Through 2025, Bangor will be buzzing with events celebrating our incredible history – from Saint Deiniol’s founding of the monastery in 525 AD, to the vibrant, diverse community we are today.
A unique sporting event took place on Saturday, 5th April, as Bangor Cricket Club (Wales) hosted their namesake counterparts from Northern Ireland in a friendly cricket match, as part of the wider Bangor 1500th Anniversary celebrations.
Picture shows (from left to right): Dr Martin Hanks City Director Bangor City Council, Gareth Edwards (Bangor Chairman), Johnny Parker (Northern Ireland Captain), Mayor Cllr Gareth Parry, Rob Marshall (Wales Captain), Peter McIlwaine (Northern Ireland Chairman).
An Eventful Day of Cricket and Community
Despite a slight delay caused by the ferry carrying the visiting team getting stuck at Holyhead Port. The match began at 2pm, and spirits remained high both on and off the pitch.
Bangor Wales batted first and put on an impressive total of 232 for 7 off 40 overs. With Nathaniel Scott and Jamie Grimshaw’s making their Bangor debuts, the standout performances came from Nathanael Scott (63 runs) and Franco Kasner (34 runs). For the visitors, Michael Skelly was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 wickets for 26 runs.
In reply, Bangor Northern Ireland were all out for 126 runs in 24 overs. Jamie Grimshaw delivered a match-winning spell for the Welsh side, taking 5 wickets for 29 runs. Batting highlights for Northern Ireland came from Johnny Parker and Michael Skelly, who both scored 34 runs.
The match ended in a convincing victory for Bangor Wales, marking a fantastic start to their cricketing season and a memorable day for everyone involved.
Celebrating Connections Across the Irish Sea
This special fixture was part of the ongoing Bangor 1500 celebrations, arranged in conjunction with the ‘Bangors Across the World’ exhibition at Storiel. The Northern Irish team spent the weekend in Bangor, Wales, further strengthening the friendly relationship between the two clubs.
The Mayor of Bangor, Cllr Gareth Parry, attended the match, welcoming the visiting players and celebrating the spirit of community and international friendship.
Robbie Marshall, Club Captain of Bangor (Wales), said: “We’ve been wanting to arrange this match for several years, and we’re delighted that it’s finally happened. It was a great game and a perfect way to kick off our season.”
Jonathan Parker, Club Captain of Bangor (Northern Ireland), said: “It’s been a fantastic experience visiting Bangor. The match was played in great spirit, and we’re looking forward to welcoming Bangor Wales to Northern Ireland next year.”
A Highlight of the Bangor 1500 Celebrations
The match was one of many events as part of Bangor 1500, marking 1,500 years since the founding of the city. Alongside cricket, the celebrations include historical exhibitions, community events, and cultural performances.
The Bangors Across the World exhibition remains open at Storiel, featuring contributions from Bangor communities worldwide including new artefacts this week from Bangor, Maine (USA).
This cricket match not only showcased sporting talent but also highlighted the strong and growing ties between global Bangors, bringing people together through sport, culture, and shared heritage.
For more information on the exhibition and the full programme of Bangor 1500 events, visit Storiel and explore the story of Bangor’s enduring legacy across the globe. For full event list visit https://bangorcitycouncil.gov.wales/Events
Action shot: Northern Ireland's Conor Cox bowling to new Bangor Wales' signing Jamie Grimshaw.
Photo credits to Chris Dawson
For further information please contact Lyn Parry at Bangor City Council on 01248564168.
For any media enquiries, please contact Medi Parry-Williams on 07464097587.
24 April 2025
Four green spaces in Bangor are set to be transformed as part of the city’s 1500th anniversary celebrations. The Bible Gardens, located in the heart of the city, will undergo a significant makeover thanks to the efforts of Bangor City Council, in collaboration with the Cathedral. Preparatory work for this major facelift of these iconic and popular town gardens has already begun. Find out more
Picture shows Dr Euryn Roberts from Bangor University, the Reverend Canon Tracy Jones from St Deiniol’s Cathedral, Bangor, and Dr Martin Hanks, Bangor City Council City Director.
Bangor City Council held a special ceremony on Friday, 28th February, to mark a historic agreement signed by Owain Glyndŵr.
This event celebrated 620 years since the historic agreement, The Tripartite Indenture, which is thought to have been signed on 28th February 1405 in the home of the Archdeacon of Bangor. The agreement was made between Owain Glyndŵr, Edmund Mortimer, and Henry Percy to divide England and Wales in their fight against King Henry IV.
The ceremony took place in the centre of Bangor at Penrhyn Hall and was attended by local leaders, historians, academics, and community members who came to honour Owain Glyndŵr’s legacy. The plaque was unveiled by Reverend Canon Tracey Jones, showing the city’s dedication to preserving and sharing this important part of Welsh history.
The event opened with a warm welcome from Mayor Cllr Gareth Parry, who highlighted the Council's pride in honouring this significant historical moment. He emphasized the importance of celebrating Welsh history and figures like Owain Glyndŵr, whose vision continues to inspire. After the unveiling, attendees engaged in discussions, shared thoughts, and enjoyed refreshments while reflecting on the occasion's historical significance.
A highlight of the event was a speech by Dr. Euryn Roberts from Bangor University, an expert in Welsh medieval history. Dr. Roberts spoke about Owain Glyndŵr’s remarkable life, his courageous journey, and his lasting popularity. He noted Glyndŵr’s vision for an independent Wales, his military tactics, and his inspiring leadership. Dr. Roberts explained how the Tripartite Indenture marked a crucial point in Welsh history, showing Glyndŵr’s desire for self-governance and his intention to change the political landscape of his time.
The plaque will serve as a tribute to Owain Glyndŵr, ensuring that future generations can learn about his contributions to Welsh heritage. It stands as a reminder of his role as a national hero and the importance of the Tripartite Indenture in shaping Welsh history. The location of the plaque was carefully chosen to reflect its historical significance, reminding visitors of Glyndŵr’s lasting impact.
Mayor Cllr Gareth Parry said: “"It’s important that we’re recognising this occasion as part of Bangor’s rich history.
“The Tripartite Indenture was a significant moment, and Owain Glyndŵr’s legacy continues to inspire. It’s nice that we’re able to commemorate this as part of the 1500 celebrations, ensuring that this crucial part of our heritage is remembered for generations to come."
For further information please contact Lyn Parry at Bangor City Council on 01248564168.
For any media enquiries, please contact Medi Parry-Williams on 07464097587.
For more information about the history of the Tripartite Indenture and Owain Glyndŵr’s legacy, please visit the Owain Glyndŵr website. www.owain-glyndwr.wales/tripartite_intentu...
Photo shows from left to right, Byd Bach Events Co-Founder Ceri Bostock, Dr Martin Hanks from Bangor City Council, Sion Eifion Jones from Adra Tai Cyf and Byd Bach Events Co-Founder Chloe Ellis.
Byd Bach Events is thrilled to announce its inaugural Community Interest Project, the Wales Dance Awards Competition 2025, which will take place on Sunday, April 6, 2025, from 11am at the renowned Pontio Arts and Innovation Centre, Bangor.
This exciting event is a proud part of the Bangor 1500 anniversary celebrations, highlighting the city’s rich cultural heritage through the power of dance.
Thanks to the generous support of Bangor City Council, Pontio, and Adra Tai Cyf, Byd Bach Events is able to bring this long-held dream to life, providing an incredible platform for up to 500 young dancers from across Wales to showcase their talent.
Schools and dance groups are invited to take part in this spectacular competition, offering a perfect day out for pupils, their families, teachers, and friends. The event includes:
Medals for every child participating
Trophies awarded for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th place
Separate categories for mainstream schools and dance schools/groups
With limited spaces available, early registration is encouraged. Schools can secure their place with a low deposit and register by emailing bydbachcic@hotmail.com or sending a direct message.
Participation is just £10 per dancer, making this an affordable opportunity for young performers to experience the thrill of performing on a professional stage.
Co-Founders of Byd Bach Events Ceri Bostock and Chloe Ellis said: “We are incredibly proud and grateful to be arranging this event.
“This has been a dream of ours for years, and we are honoured to have it included in the Bangor 1500 celebrations. This is just the beginning of many community-driven projects that will bring arts and culture to the heart of our city.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to celebrate dance, creativity, and community spirit in Bangor. Register your place now by Thursday 20th February!!’’
Dr Martin Hanks, Director at Bangor City Council shared ‘we are extremely proud to be supporting this fantastic event for young dancers whilst creating something unique for Bangor as part of the 1500 celebrations this year’.
For further information, please contact:
Byd Bach Events via email at bydbachcic@hotmail.com or follow the Facebook Event Page: https://fb.me/e/3WMjXQy33
Self-defence exhibition in the marquee by Gwynedd a Mon Budosai, including a taster session for children of all ages.
Date: 26 July
Date: 16 August
Location: Bangor City Centre
FREE entry
Get ready for the biggest, boldest, most feel-good day of the year. Bangor Summer Festival isn’t just another event — it’s a full-blown celebration of our city, our community, and everything that makes Bangor brilliant right now.
From the bustle of a sprawling street market to the buzz of thrill rides, from laugh-out-loud family shows to unforgettable live music — this is a festival that transforms the entire city centre into a playground of colour, sound, and non-stop entertainment.
Expect jaw-dropping walkabout characters, magical performances, hands-on fun for kids, mouth-watering street food, and a main stage packed with energy from midday ‘til late. There are joyful surprises around every corner — and best of all, most of it won’t cost you a penny.
Whether you’re three, thirty, or just young at heart, this is your invitation to step out, join in, and make the kind of memories that Bangor will be buzzing about for years to come.
If you only do one thing in Bangor this summer – make it this.
Date: 29 & 30 August
Location: Bangor Cathedral
Date: 11 September
Location: Bangor Cathedral
Date: 14 September
Location: Bangor Cathedral
Date: 4 October
Location: Bangor Cathedral
Date: 17 - 18 October
Location: Pontio and University
Date: 5 November
Location: TBC
We are proud to announce that Storiel the Museum of Gwynedd in Partnership with Bangor City Council’s 1500 Celebration, M Sparc , Y Pethau Bychain , EECO and North Wales Wildlife Trust , will be working together to provide a series of activities on Tuesday May the 27th in preparation for THE Herds arriving in the UK at the end of June.
THE HERDS is public art and climate action on an unprecedented scale – an ambitious coming together of culture and climate awareness .
From April to August 2025, ever-growing herds of life-size puppet animals will stampede into cities across Africa and Europe to flee climate disaster in a public artwork on a scale never before attempted. Millions of people will follow THE HERDS online and via social media, and participate in special events and performances in person along the 20,000km route, from the Congo Basin to the Arctic Circle.
THE HERDS unites leading artists and organisations committed to driving change. Key stops include Kinshasa, Lagos, Dakar, Marrakesh, Casablanca, Madrid, Barcelona, Marseille, Arles, Paris, Venice, Manchester, London, Aarhus, Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Trondheim, culminating in a final event in the Arctic Circle.
As the Herds travel through the UK from the 27th of June to the 5th of July with the impressive life like puppets appearing in London and Manchester. Working with Art Fund UK a total of 44 museums across Great Britain will be taking part each providing workshops and activities to raise awareness on a UK-wide level that will respond to the climate crisis and connect local communities with museum collections and the natural world.
Storiel will have two free workshops to create insect puppets on Tuesday the 27th of May in a specially erected marquee on Storiel’s Lawnt . Working with M Sparc designers and artist Elin Alaw these exiting family focused workshops will merge science and art together to create a vibrant puppets.
In addition to the workshops we will have stands by Enviromental Engineering company EECO to discuss the ideas of insects as a protein source for livestock , whilst North Wales Wildlife Trust (that currently have an exhibition at Storiel (Beyond the Boundary : A case of Garden Escapers (exhibition running until 14.06.2025) will have activities around the museum to participate in.
This event is funded by the Arts Fund . Tickets for these events are free and can be claimed through Eventbrite. A warm welcome to all .
11.00 am session: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-herds-gweithdy-...
14.00 pm session: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-herds-gweithdy-...
