The Urdd
The Urdd: A Legacy of Welsh Youth and Culture
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Who are the Urdd?
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The Urdd Gobaith Cymru (the Urdd) is a vibrant Welsh youth organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the Welsh language, culture, and traditions among young people. Founded in 1922, the Urdd has grown to become one of the largest youth movements in Wales, with over 55,000 members and a rich history of empowering children and young adults through education, cultural events, and social engagement.
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The Urdd is an organization that places a strong emphasis on instilling a sense of Welsh pride, community, and identity in the younger generation. Through a variety of programs, competitions, and events, the Urdd provides young people with the tools they need to develop leadership skills, foster creativity, and engage with their heritage in meaningful ways.
The Urdd’s Connection to Philadelphia and the Welsh-American Community
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Philadelphia has a rich history of Welsh immigration, with many Welsh settlers contributing to the cultural and industrial development of the city. Today, the Welsh-American community continues to thrive, and the Urdd plays a key role in connecting Philadelphia’s Welsh heritage with the youth of today.
Though based in Wales, the Urdd’s mission of fostering a strong sense of Welsh identity is shared by Welsh-American communities in Philadelphia and across the United States. In recent years, efforts have been made to establish links between the Urdd and Welsh-American youth organizations, ensuring that the next generation of Welsh speakers and culture-bearers remain connected to their roots.
The Welsh Society of Philadelphia proudly supports the ideals of the Urdd, helping to create opportunities for young people to engage with the Welsh language and culture through various programs and events - 2025 will be the third consecutive year that young people from the Urdd have ahd the opprortunity to travel to America and perform at St. David's Day events
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Urdd application for singers to celebrate St. David's Day 2025 in the USA
The Urdd interview on Welsh TV about 2024 trip to America
The Urdd celebrating St. David's Day in the USA 2024
The Urdd celebrating St. David's Day in the USA 2023
What Does the Urdd Do?
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The Urdd offers a wide range of activities designed to nurture the talents and skills of young people across Wales, including:
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Cultural Events and Competitions: The Urdd Eisteddfod is one of the most significant annual events in Wales, where young people compete in singing, dancing, drama, poetry, and more. The event celebrates Welsh language and culture and offers a platform for young artists to shine.
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Youth Camps and Residential Experiences: The Urdd organizes camps and outdoor activities that encourage personal development, teamwork, and a love for nature. These programs are offered in both Welsh and English, welcoming children from all backgrounds to engage with Welsh culture.
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Community Engagement: The Urdd promotes community-based activities, such as Welsh language learning, sports, arts, and volunteering. It is committed to strengthening local Welsh-speaking communities while inspiring young people to take an active role in shaping their futures.
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International Programs: As part of its global outreach, the Urdd connects young people from Wales with their counterparts in other countries, fostering international friendships and cultural exchange.
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If you are interested in learning more about the Urdd or getting involved with Welsh cultural activities in Philadelphia, we invite you to contact us or attend one of our upcoming events. For more information about the Urdd and how you can support its mission, visit the Urdd Gobaith Cymru website or reach out to the Welsh Society of Philadelphia.