After four years of championing grassroots talent and bringing some of the UK and US’s most exciting independent country artists to Wales, the South Wales Country Music Festival has confirmed that the 2026 edition will not be going ahead.
Run with heart and determination by Heather, Scott and Jason, the festival has become a beloved fixture in the UK country calendar since its launch. Over 30 acts have taken to its stages across previous years, including rising UK favourites and international names who may never have reached Welsh audiences otherwise. But as the team explained in their announcement, the landscape has shifted dramatically.
Rising operational costs, increased competition from a growing number of country‑branded events, and the trio’s commitment to keeping ticket prices fair have made this year’s festival financially unviable. Unlike many events leaning heavily on tribute acts, the South Wales Country Music Festival has always prioritised original music and independent artists — a stance that has earned deep respect from fans and performers alike.
Despite exploring sponsorship and council support, the organisers were unable to secure the backing needed to maintain the festival’s quality without passing the burden onto fans. And that, they say, is something they refuse to do.
Still, this isn’t a goodbye. The team emphasised that while the festival is pausing for 2026, they remain committed to bringing live country music to South Wales — just as they did last year with standout shows from Alli Walker, Sheyna Gee, and most recently Tim Montana in February 2026.
Looking Back at the 2025 Festival: A Standout Year
If the 2025 festival proved anything, it’s that the South Wales Country Music Festival had hit its stride.
Held at the Newport Corn Exchange, the event brought together a vibrant mix of UK and US talent, showcasing the breadth and evolution of modern country music. The line‑up included:
- Twinnie — a bold, genre‑blending force whose live shows are as theatrical as they are emotionally charged.
- Emilia Quinn — a powerhouse of the UK Americana scene, delivering grit, soul and authenticity.
- Two Ways Home — the harmony‑driven duo whose songwriting has become a staple of the British country landscape.
- Wood Burnt Red — Welsh favourites bringing homegrown energy and a loyal local following.
- Willow Hill — the Nashville‑based husband‑and‑wife duo known for their polished, high‑energy performances.
- Kyle Elliott — a Tennessee storyteller with a smooth vocal style and a growing UK fanbase.
The 2025 edition captured everything the festival stands for: originality, diversity, and a commitment to giving independent artists a platform at a time when tribute‑led events dominate the market. It was a celebration of real artistry — and a reminder of why the festival has meant so much to so many.
A Community Responds With Love
The announcement sparked an outpouring of support across social media, reflecting just how much the festival has meant to the UK country community.
Long‑time attendee Wendy Cottis praised the organisers for staying true to their values:
“Sad to read this but glad to see you taking a stand over costs. I’ve seen all the country events popping up but it’s the grassroots new acts that you offered that made it special. Glad it’s just a pause and we’ll hopefully see you next year.”
Another loyal supporter, Lorraine Pollard, echoed the sentiment:
“You guys have done a brilliant job with the festival over the past 4 years and I have loved every year I’ve been. Your dedication has been felt throughout! It’s a shame it’s not going ahead this year, but totally understand why. I look forward to whatever you have planned moving forward. Good luck!”
Artists, too, have expressed their gratitude and sadness, highlighting the festival’s role in giving original acts a platform at a time when tribute‑led line‑ups dominate the market.
A Pause, Not an Ending
The South Wales Country Music Festival has always been more than a weekend of music — it’s been a community hub, a champion of authenticity, and a rare space where emerging artists could stand shoulder‑to‑shoulder with established names.
While 2025 will feel different without it, the spirit of the festival remains very much alive. And if the reaction from fans and artists is anything to go by, South Wales will be ready to welcome it back whenever the time is right.
