The Urdd National Eisteddfod is set to bring in an estimated £6 million to the local economy, according to official estimates.
More than 100,000 people were expected to visit the festival at Llancaiach Fawr, near Nelson, between May 25 and its close on May 30.
An estimate by Caerphilly County Borough Council, put together before the start of the Eisteddfod, put the financial boost to the local economy at the £6m mark.
Around 15,000 competitors and an estimated 90,000 visitors were due at the week-long event, enjoying a range of competitions, evening events and family-friendly activities in what is Europe’s largest youth festival.
Chair of the Caerphilly Business Forum, Denise Lovering, said: “The business community welcomed the news that this year’s Eisteddfod would be taking place in Caerphilly.
“It’s a great location and a boost to the economy is welcome, especially at a time when we have lost a large retailer from the main shopping street. We look forward to receiving the many visitors that the festival will attract and hope the high profile it creates will help us with the task of building a more prosperous future for the area.”
Cllr Keith Reynolds, Leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council, said: “Hosting this prestigious and popular event is a major boost for Caerphilly County Borough, and its first two days alone, the Urdd Eisteddfod has attracted over 37,500 visitors – with similar attendance figures anticipated throughout the remainder of the week.”
He added: “I would also like to extend a huge thank you to the large group of volunteers and others who have worked so hard to bring this major event to our area. I am sure that the legacy of the Urdd Eisteddfod will have a positive and lasting effect on this area for many years to come.”
Caerphilly AM Jeff Cuthbert welcomed news of the economic boost.
He said: “It recognises the value of Caerphilly County Borough and Llancaiach Fawr.
“There is no doubt that the local economy will benefit considerably and the good weather we have enjoyed has encouraged visitors.
“When I visited, the place was very full with a wide range of activities taking place, as well as the formal competitions.”
Aled Sion, Director of the Urdd Eisteddfod, said: “The Urdd Eisteddfod is now in full swing and we are very pleased with the way it has gone so far – the visitor numbers are high, the weather has been good and the shuttle buses are running smoothly.
“We look forward to welcoming more visitors over the last few days – and encourage people to take advantage of our offer on the last Saturday of half price admission to everybody.”