Communities across Wales are being encouraged to nominate their most beloved traditions for inclusion in a new UK Register of cultural heritage. This initiative aims to formally acknowledge and protect cultural practices that hold a special place in Welsh identity and community life.
Numerous traditions that are integral to Welsh culture and identity could be officially recognized through this initiative. These include festive customs such as the Nos Galan road races, 3 am carol singing, and the Mari Lwyd, as well as seasonal celebrations like St David’s Day and St Dwynwen’s Day. The unique tradition of conducting Eisteddfodau in Welsh, which encompasses various cultural activities such as singing and spoken word, is also eligible for recognition.
A diverse range of Welsh traditions, both ancient and modern, are expected to be considered for inclusion in the register. This includes contemporary events like bog snorkelling and the Elvis Festival, as well as longstanding activities such as male voice choirs. Traditional artisanal crafts like slate-carving, love-spoon-making, and the art of baking Welsh cakes using a bakestone are also up for consideration.
Welsh Secretary David TC Davies has highlighted the importance of preserving and safeguarding living heritage to ensure the continuation of Wales‘ unique cultural identity.
This move aligns with the UK Government’s intention to ratify the 2003 UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage. This convention seeks to protect crafts, practices, and traditions that are essential to national life and contribute to the identity of communities.
Arts and Heritage Minister Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay has emphasized the richness of traditions across the UK, with Welsh culture making a significant contribution. By ratifying the convention, the UK aims to celebrate and support these traditions, ensuring they are passed down for generations.
The formal recognition of intangible cultural heritage will be a collaborative effort involving communities, groups, and individuals across Wales. A public consultation has been launched to gather views on the proposed approach to implementing the convention. This includes the nomination process, adjudication, and criteria for consideration.
Welsh communities are encouraged to actively participate in preserving their cultural treasures, contributing to the creation of a UK-wide inventory set to launch for nominations in the coming year.
