We're coming to the end of our advent calendar so it's time to look back at the wonderful year we've had . From festivals to great sport events and plenty of awards, here are the highlights of the fantastic 2013 in the Brecon Beacons...

We were delighted to begin the year being awarded Dark Sky Reserve status in February as only the fifth destination in the world. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the local community they passed the rigorous application process. Local astronomers conducted a survey to assess the levels of light pollution, and lighting engineers audited the existing external lighting in the National Park.  Well done everyone!

We had a great year for festivals with Hay Literature Festival, The Brecon Jazz and the Abergavenny Food Festival  enjoying huge success once again and Green Man Festival celebrating its sixth year in the Brecon Beacons. Festival Director, Fiona Stewart also picked up the 'Outstanding Contribution to Festivals Award' at the UK Festival Awards. Not bad! 

This year was also an incredible year for sport in the National Park with a whole host of walking festivals throughout the year, confirming the Brecon Beacons as the UK's walking mecca. We also welcomed the new Hay Bike Festival in April and our first Tough Mudder in Glanusk Estate! Not to mention being graced with the presence of national treasure Bradley Wiggins in the Tour of Britain in September.