The 17th-century Welsh cultural celebration took place at our Llwyn y Bryn, Tycoch and Gorseinon campuses, as a flash-performance of the Mari Lwyd horse made its way through the sites.
Mari Lwyd (Y Fari Lwyd in Welsh meaning Old Grey Mare), is traditionally a New Year celebration to pass the marking of the dark days of winter and welcome the spring. Once celebrated across Wales, it’s now a tradition associated with south and south-east of the country.
“We have been extremely fortunate to welcome the Mari Lwyd to College. As well as being a visual feast, the public performance caused an intrigue about our Welsh heritage and culture.” Anna Davies, Welsh Manager said. “I am thankful to our Art & Design Technician, David Pitt for organising the events, and for his wealth of knowledge and creativity in putting on such a display”.
What is the Mari Lwyd tradition?
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The Mari Lwyd (Y Fari Lwyd in Welsh meaning Grey Mare), is a Welsh midwinter tradition, often to celebrate New Year.
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The Mari Lwyd consists of a wooden or cardboard mare’s skull on a stick, which is carried by a person and covered with a white sheet. It is decorated with ribbons and small bells.
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The Mari Lwyd forms part of a group which makes its way in ceremony through the streets of the local community, calling at pubs and houses where they break into traditional dancing and song.
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Sometimes, the jaw of the skull is spring loaded so that the operator can ‘snap’ it at passers-by, trying to frighten them and causing some humour and havoc.
Find out more about our Welsh Language activities.