What began fourteen years ago with a simple conversation in a small “wonky green shop” on Ship Street has grown into one of Brecon’s most quietly powerful cultural programmes.
A handful of local women asked whether something could be created around International Women’s Day. The answer was yes. It has been yes ever since.
Now in its fourteenth year, the Festival stands as a remarkable voluntary achievement — shaped by commitment, creativity and long-standing community support.
There are no large commercial structures behind this programme. It is sustained by energy, care and determination.
Over the years, organisers including Karin Mear, Hilda Benham, Paula Keen, Sian Drinan and Cathey Owen-Cousins — alongside many others — have created a festival that blends literature, art, music, discussion, wellbeing and community spirit.
Special thanks are extended to loyal allies, contributors and the venues, businesses and organisations that continue to open their doors and lend their support.
This is grassroots cultural infrastructure at its best.
The 2026 programme promises to be one of the strongest yet.
It is a programme that reflects the diversity of women’s voices and interests — creative, intellectual, practical and joyful.
Brecon Women’s Festival does more than fill a diary.
It:
In a visitor economy shaped increasingly by authenticity and experience, festivals like this carry real value.
They are built on relationships — and they create them too.
The full 2026 programme is now available, with events taking place across March.
For businesses, this is a moment to engage — whether through hosting, collaborating, cross-promoting or simply championing what is happening locally.
For visitors and residents alike, it is an invitation to take part in something thoughtful, local and genuinely special.
Brecon Women’s Festival may describe itself as “remarkable, mighty and little” — but its impact continues to grow.
