SWN Festival
Cardiff
To most, Welsh music means opera singers or male voice choirs, but that’s to ignore the country’s fine rock and pop heritage. Although it’s only been around for five years, SWN (meaning ‘noise’ in Welsh) is the country’s premier showcase for up and coming bands – including Welsh-language bands – and one of the most exciting music festivals in the UK. Gigs take place in multiple venues across the city, such as Chapter, Club Ifor Bach and Dempseys, and you can either buy individual day tickets (wristbands) or go the whole rock hog and purchase a ticket covering all four days.