World Heritage Weekend 2010 was a roaring success with thousands of people enjoying two days of exciting events throughout the Blaenavon World Heritage Site. The glorious weather helped make the tenth World Heritage Day the best yet. About ten thousand people crammed into Blaenavon Heritage Town where they enjoyed the fantastic Heritage Costume Parade, live music, a Victorian fun fair and enthralling street entertainment throughout the day. Nearly 800 people flocked to the Blaenavon World Heritage Centre to enjoy performances by the renowned Welsh National Opera, the debut of the Blaenavon Gamelan and a classical performance by folk band, the ‘A-Fortes’. This was followed by Welsh National Opera’s ‘The Journey’, a well-attended community concert held at Blaenavon Workmen’s Hall in the evening.

On the following day, visitors enjoyed the Garn Lakes Country Fayre, which also saw a rise in visitor numbers. Thousands participated in a range of outdoor activities including kayaking on the lake, fishing, a climbing wall, orienteering, and archery. There was a craft marquee, selling jewellery, art, textiles and wood-turned items and exhibitors from the Brecon Beacons National Park, Gwent Badger Group and Gwent Beekeepers amongst many others.

Councillor John Cunningham, Executive Member for Neighbourhood Services, said:  “Once again, Blaenavon World Heritage Weekend has had fantastic support from the community attracting thousands of visitors to the area, boosting the local economy and profile of the town. Ten years since the town was awarded World Heritage Status, we’re seeing its tourism offer go from strength to strength.”