If you’ve ever wished for a second chance to celebrate New Year’s—or just an excuse to party a little longer—then Hen Galan, the Old New Year, is your time-travelling destination. Held on January 13th, this uniquely Welsh festival harks back to the days before calendar reforms, when the Julian calendar still reigned supreme. In a few special communities in West Wales, the tradition lives on, bringing a magical mix of ancient customs, communal cheer, and maybe a little cider.
What Is Hen Galan?
Hen Galan (meaning “Old Calendar” in Welsh) is the celebration of New Year’s Day according to the Julian Calendar, which was replaced in Britain by the Gregorian Calendar in 1752. When the switch was made, 11 days were “lost,” and January 1st became the official start of the year. However, not everyone embraced this modernisation, and some Welsh communities continued to mark their New Year on January 13th.
Today, Hen Galan is most famously celebrated in the small village of Cwm Gwaun in Pembrokeshire, where the old traditions live on with a quirky charm. Expect singing, feasting, and children visiting homes to wish good luck for the year ahead.
Your Itinerary
Day 1: Immerse Yourself in the Magic of Cwm Gwaun
Begin your journey in the lush Cwm Gwaun Valley, a place that feels untouched by time. The valley is rich with rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and quaint cottages, setting the perfect scene for an old-world celebration.
Stroll through the village to admire the traditional stone houses and the meandering River Gwaun. Stop at a local inn, such as the Tafarn Sinc, for a warm welcome and a taste of Pembrokeshire ale.
Spend your afternoon exploring the surrounding countryside, where myths and legends seem to lurk around every corner. Visit the Gwaun Valley Brewery for a tour (and a sample or two) of the local brews.
Day 2: Celebrate Hen Galan
On the morning of January 13th, children dressed in their best clothes go door-to-door to perform the Calennig. This charming custom involves singing traditional New Year’s songs and offering good wishes in exchange for treats, such as coins or sweets. Think of it as a New Year’s version of Halloween, with a distinctly Welsh twist.
As the day progresses, join the villagers for a festive feast featuring traditional dishes like cawl (a hearty lamb and vegetable stew) and bara brith (a spiced fruit loaf). In true Hen Galan style, there’s plenty of cider or mead to keep the celebrations lively.
In the evening, gather around a roaring fire for storytelling and communal singing. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with the timeless spirit of Hen Galan bringing the community together.
Why Hen Galan Matters
Hen Galan is more than just a quaint tradition—it’s a living link to Wales’ rich cultural heritage. It speaks to the resilience of rural communities and their ability to hold onto customs that reflect their identity and history.
For visitors, Hen Galan offers a chance to experience the warmth and camaraderie of a traditional Welsh celebration. It’s also a reminder that time is what we make of it—whether we’re counting by the Julian calendar, the Gregorian calendar, or simply the rhythm of our lives.
Travel Tips for Hen Galan
- Bring a Gift: If you’re visiting homes during Calennig, a small token of goodwill (like biscuits or sweets) will be warmly received.
- Layer Up: January in Wales can be cold and damp, so pack warm, waterproof clothing for the festivities.
- Learn a Song: Brush up on traditional Welsh tunes to join in the communal singing. A hearty rendition of Auld Lang Syne wouldn’t go amiss!
What’s on the Menu?
Hen Galan feasts showcase the best of Welsh cuisine. Look for:
- Cawl: A warming stew of lamb, leeks, and root vegetables, served with crusty bread.
- Welsh Cakes: Sweet, buttery griddle cakes perfect for snacking.
- Bara Brith: A spiced fruit loaf soaked in tea for extra flavour.
Pair your meal with locally brewed cider or a glass of mead, an ancient honey-based drink that feels perfectly in tune with the occasion.
Fun Trivia About Hen Galan
- Did you know? The Julian Calendar, introduced by Julius Caesar in 45 BC, was 11 minutes too long, leading to a drift of about three days every four centuries.
- Odd but true: When the Gregorian Calendar was adopted in 1752, some people believed the missing 11 days had been “stolen” from their lives and protested the change.
- Legacy: Cwm Gwaun’s continued celebration of Hen Galan is one of the few places in Britain where this tradition survives today.
Want to Know More?
Books
- The Celtic Year: Seasonal Celebrations and Festivals by Shirley Toulson.
- Welsh Customs and Traditions by Trefor M. Owen.
Articles
- “Keeping the Old New Year: Hen Galan in Wales” by the Folklore Society.
- “Julian vs. Gregorian: A Tale of Two Calendars” in History Today.
Web Resources
- Visit Wales: www.visitwales.com
- National Museum Wales: www.museum.wales
The Final Word
Hen Galan is a celebration of resilience, community, and tradition that defies the tyranny of time. Visiting Cwm Gwaun during this timeless festival offers a rare glimpse into Wales’ past and the enduring spirit of its people.
Whether you’re savouring a bowl of cawl, singing by the fire, or reflecting on the quirks of history that let you celebrate New Year’s twice, Hen Galan promises an experience as unique as it is heartwarming.
Have you welcomed the New Year with a Hen Galan celebration or another time-bending tradition? Share your tales—we’ll toast your adventures with a mug of cider and a slice of bara brith!
