Cardiff is gearing up for a host of events to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD), a day recognised worldwide to promote women’s equality and celebrate their achievements. Scheduled for March 8th this year, the theme for IWD is #AccelerateAction. The city has a range of activities lined up to mark the occasion, offering something for everyone to participate in. From exhibitions to sport events, there is a diverse array of options for residents and visitors to engage in. Let’s dive into the exciting lineup happening across Cardiff to commemorate International Women’s Day.
One of the focal points of the celebrations is the exhibition at the Senedd showcasing the first five planned and named statues of women in Wales. This exhibition, running from February 22 to May 7, highlights the work of the Monumental Welsh Women group. As part of the exhibition, Welsh artist Meinir Mathias has created portraits of significant Welsh women such as Betty Campbell, Elaine Morgan, Cranogwen, and Lady Rhondda. The group will also be honouring political activist Elizabeth Andrews at this event.
Supporters of women’s sport can head to the Cardiff International Sports Campus on Sunday to cheer on Cardiff City Women as they go up against Wrexham in the Adran Premier league. With Cardiff currently leading the table, it promises to be an intense match between the two teams. The game will kick off at 2pm, offering fans an exciting way to celebrate the achievements of women in sports.
For those interested in history, a Welsh-language walking tour exploring women’s history in Cardiff is set to take place on Saturday. Starting from the entrance of Cardiff University’s main building at 12pm, the tour will guide participants through prominent locations such as government buildings, City Hall, and the National Museum Cardiff. The tour aims to shed light on the contributions of female activists, scientists, musicians, and suffragettes in shaping the city’s history.
Football enthusiasts can head to Gôl in Leckwith on Saturday for the IWD ‘give it a go’ day of football. Cardiff Women’s five-a-side team is hosting this event from 1pm to 3pm, welcoming women and girls of all abilities to try their hand at the sport. With just a £2 deposit required, which is refundable as a bar voucher, it’s a fantastic opportunity to get active and enjoy a fun-filled day on the field.
PowHerful, a community group dedicated to empowering women in Cardiff, is organising a sketch and yap evening on Thursday, March 13th. The event will feature an illustration workshop, complimentary goodie bags, and refreshments at the Coffee Spot in Barrack Lane. Attendees can look forward to a creative and social gathering, providing a platform to connect with like-minded individuals and have a memorable experience. Tickets for the event are priced at £18.
Food enthusiasts can show their support for female-led café and restaurant Longa, which boasts a rich blend of Turkish flavours with a modern twist. Located on Whitchurch Road and Park Place, the restaurant is run by sisters Gizem Yorgun and Simge Yalcin. Known for their innovative take on Turkish classics, Longa offers a gastronomic journey celebrating women in the culinary world. By dining at Longa, patrons can contribute to showcasing women’s talent and creativity in the food industry.
Music aficionados can enjoy a series of events at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama on Saturday, March 8th. The college is hosting a panel discussion with female musicians from the UK jazz scene at 12pm, followed by a celebration of women’s work from their composition department at 2pm. Attendees can immerse themselves in the sounds of female composers and gain insights into their contributions to the music industry.
International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the progress made towards gender equality and the work that still lies ahead. By actively participating in events that celebrate women’s achievements and contributions, individuals can contribute to fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. Cardiff’s lineup of activities offers a range of opportunities for people to engage with the spirit of IWD and support women in various fields. Whether through art, sport, history, or music, there are ample ways to honour and uplift the women in our communities.