Always on
This project successfully funded on 9th July 2026, you can still support them with a donation.
Gwyl Tyisha Festival
Llanelli, United Kingdom
Aim
A free community arts project connecting people, families, and local history through creativity, collaboration, and belonging.
Tyisha is a community-led cultural celebration that brings people together through music, creativity, heritage, and participation. At a time when many families are facing economic pressure and opportunities for free cultural activities are increasingly limited, Tyisha offers people of all ages the chance to take part in a vibrant festival of culture, performance, and community spirit, free of charge.
Inspired by the story of Jac Tyisha (Jack Hughes), a local figure associated with the Rebecca Riots, the project culminates in a large-scale community parade through the streets of Tumble. Hundreds of participants, dressed as the Merched Becca, will join musicians, performers, artists, schools, clubs, and community groups in a colourful celebration of Welsh identity, history, and culture. More than a historical commemoration, the parade will be a living cultural event combining music, performance, storytelling, and visual spectacle to create a powerful shared experience.
Gŵyl Tyisha creates a sense of belonging by bringing people together to make, perform, and celebrate. It encourages new connections, strengthens existing ones, and provides welcoming spaces where people can share experiences, take pride in their community, and feel part of something bigger. The parade and festival also offer an accessible way for people who might not usually engage with the arts, heritage, or cultural activities to take part.
At its heart, Gŵyl Tyisha connects contemporary community life with local history. By exploring the legacy of Jac Tyisha and the Rebecca Riots, participants gain a deeper understanding of the people and events that shaped the Gwendraeth Valley while creating new memories for future generations.
Tyisha has already received fantastic support from the local community. The project has been backed by Llannon County Council and supported by generous sponsorship from local businesses and organisations that recognise the value of bringing people together through culture, heritage, and creativity.
However, delivering a large-scale community parade and cultural festival incurs high costs. While much of the project is made possible through voluntary contributions, partnerships, and in-kind support, there are essential behind-the-scenes expenses needed to ensure the event is safe, accessible, and professionally delivered.
Funds raised through this Crowdfunder will help cover practical costs such as road closures, event insurance, equipment hire, health and safety requirements, and other event infrastructure. These elements enable hundreds of people to participate and the wider community to enjoy the celebration safely and free of charge.
We still have £1000 left to raise, so every contribution, no matter the size, will help us deliver an ambitious community event that celebrates local history, showcases Welsh culture, and creates a lasting sense of pride across the Gwendraeth Valley. If we meet this figure, any amount raised beyond that will be donated to local charities.
Funding method
Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made