AS SCHOOLS schools break up for the Whitsun half term, Carmarthenshire is offering a fantastic range of family-friendly activities to enjoy together. From outdoor adventures and nature-inspired experiences to theatre performances, museum exhibitions and creative library sessions, there are plenty of free and low-cost ways to make the most of the break.
Whether you’re looking for active days out, relaxed cultural visits, or something to do whatever the weather, Carmarthenshire has something to suit all ages and interests.
A full list of activities can be found on the Discover Carmarthenshire ‘What’s On’ page.
For those keen to get outdoors, the scenic Tywi Valley Path at Nantgaredig hosts a free parkrun every Saturday at 9am, welcoming participants of all ages and abilities for a friendly and inclusive start to the weekend.
The National Botanic Garden of Wales has a packed Whitsun programme, including The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ Trail, running until May 31 and bringing Eric Carle’s beloved story to life among the spring blooms. Over the Whitsun Bank Holiday weekend (May 24–25), families can also enjoy The Quack Pack alongside the popular Spring Fayre, featuring seasonal activities, attractions and local produce in a vibrant garden setting.
At WWT Llanelli Wetland Centre, families can enjoy Gozzle, a fun, interactive spring adventure running until 31 May. Based on the popular children’s book, the experience includes an outdoor trail following Gozzle the gosling’s journey from hatching to first migration, with playful activities along the way. Young visitors can also take part in storytelling sessions and hands-on activities, making it an engaging way to explore wetlands and wildlife.
Food lovers can head to Gelli Aur Farmers’ Market on May 31 to discover local produce and enjoy a relaxed day out in historic surroundings.
Carmarthenshire’s libraries will host a varied programme of children’s activities throughout half term, including:
- Storytime sessions
- Jewellery-making workshops
- Lego play sessions
- Watercolour painting
- Board games
A full list of library events is available on the Discover Carmarthenshire website.
For live entertainment, Carmarthenshire Theatres offer an exciting Whitsun line-up:
- Welsh Wrestling – Glowyr Theatre, Ammanford (May 28)
- Annie Junior – Lyric Theatre (May 28)
- The Cat in the Hat – Ffwrnes Theatre (May 30)
Carmarthenshire’s Actif Leisure Centres will be packed with fun this Whitsun, with a wide range of activities taking place across the county. From inflatable pool sessions and intensive swimming lessons to Nerf battles, Lego activities and Aqua Boards, there will be something for everyone to enjoy this half term at Carmarthen Leisure Centre, Canolfan Pentre Awel, Amman Valley Leisure Centre, St Clears Leisure Centre and Newcastle Emlyn Leisure Centre. More information is available via the Actif website.
On May 31, Millennium Coastal Park in Llanelli will host Race for Life, bringing the community together for a positive fundraising event in support of Cancer Research UK.
For those interested in history and culture, Carmarthenshire’s museums have plenty to offer. The exhibition Romantic Wales: Turner and his Contemporaries opens on May 23 and runs until October, showcasing Wales through the eyes of influential artists. Visitors can also see the return of the iconic racing car Babs at the Museum of Land Speed, continuing its appeal for all ages.
Carmarthenshire County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure, Culture and Tourism, Cllr Hazel Evans, said: “There’s such a wide range of things to do in Carmarthenshire this Whitsun – from outdoor activities and nature experiences to theatre, museums and creative sessions in our libraries.
“Whether families are looking for energetic days out or more relaxed activities, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy quality time together across the county.”
