An unseasonably cold and wet spring saw the launch of Bush Waka, Bridgend’s first bush-craft festival. The event aimed to encourage people to get involved with their environment by exploring the world of bush-craft and traditional wilderness skills. The event was run on a particularly wet Saturday in April, but it was surprising to see how a drop of rain won’t deter families from Bridgend putting on their waterproofs and heading to Bryngarw Country Park to make the most of all the activities, like this tomato seed planting by the Community Foodie project. Learn more about Community Foodie Here.
There was a great turn out and Bryngarw Country Park was almost full at lunch time. Even with the rain it was easy to get involved with activities as the stalls were covered and large parachutes were suspended from trees to keep everything dry. Exciting activities included fire-lighting, campfire cooking, shelter building and chainsaw carving.
There was also a falconry display and stalls for local crafts and conservation groups. If you managed to get around all that you could then relax in the central tipi (supplied by Cwm Tawel Yurt Campsite) for some storytelling.
Swansea Plantasia were on hand for bushtucker trails and animal antics, but with an opportunity to have a giant hissing cockroach crawl on you , for some that was a case of ‘I’m not a celebrity, but get me out of here’!
It was nice to see so many families doing what DimExcuses is all about, getting out, having fun and enjoying the Welsh countryside, whatever the weather, and sometimes things are more fun in the rain. A great venue, a great event and a great day out, dimexcuses.
When is it on next year?
DimExcuses 