Nestled in the Snowdonia Mountains, Harlech has always been known for its strong, tightly knit and supportive community. The town’s voluntary groups play a vital role in the success of this community, running a wide range of activities to enrich the lives of children and adults.
The pandemic disrupted this community, as it did communities around the world. When Covid restrictions were lifted in the summer of 2021, the Community Council decided it wanted to bring people together again for the first time in well over a year. Inspired by the Great Get Together they decided to hold a family fun day which all parts of the community could participate in.
On 27 June 2021, they hosted the Harlech Party in the Park. This was supported by local charities, community groups, businesses and volunteers who offered their support for free to put on a fantastic day. Among the various activities on offer were:
- Celebrations of local culture through music recitals, as well as songs, stories and poems read by school children in Welsh.
- Activities for children including face painting, balloon modelling, wood carvings, air cadets marching and an owl display.
- Support from institutions like Natural Resources Wales, Snowdonia National Park and Network Rail who described the work they were doing, organised a programe of mindfulness and meditation in the dunes, spoke on ancient local buildings and educated people on the dangers of level crossings.
- Local community groups including the Scouts, local schools, Air Cadets, the WI, Silver Band, Rugby club and the Old Library running stalls and activities to raise funds.
- Food and drink provided by volunteers from Harlech memorial hall.
Given that Harlech only has a population of 1500 this was a huge community effort and brought together every part of the town. The event was entirely run on good will but had a huge impact in uniting people in-person for the first time in a year. It was truly a Great Get Together!