The Six Nations | Wales.com
The atmosphere in Cardiff on a match day is something special. The roads around the Principality Stadium are closed to traffic, and turn into a river of eager fans as kick-off approaches. It’s good news for street traders and local bars: you won’t need to look far if you want to buy a rugby scarf or daffodil hat, have your face stencilled with a red dragon, or get a quick drink or bite to eat before the game.
Inside the stadium, home and away fans of all ages sit together. There’s a musical build-up, often with massed choirs and a military band, until the players run out to the pitch to a fiery blast from the stadium’s flamethrowers. Few sporting moments come close to the surge of pride and anticipation when the national anthem, Hen Wlad fy Nhadau, reverberates around the stands.
The music doesn’t stop there. Whatever the fortunes of the Welsh team on the day, few would disagree that our fans are the best at driving the players forward with song. The classic repertoire includes the Welsh hymns Calon Lân and Cwm Rhondda, the folk song Sosban Fach and Max Boyce’s rugby anthem Hymns and Arias – punctuated by the occasional fanfare from the mariachi band.
If you’re keen to experience a Six Nations match in Cardiff for yourself, it’s vital to plan ahead. Tickets are available from the Welsh Rugby Union, and it’s worth looking over the Principality Stadium website to make sure your visit goes smoothly.
Accommodation is booked up well in advance: see the Visit Wales directory for ideas.
On match day, special queueing systems are in place at the rail station, with plenty of marshals around to help you find the right connections. The park-and-ride facilities are a good bet if you’re staying outside Cardiff and driving in.
It’s also a good idea to reserve a place if you’re heading for the city centre’s most popular bars or restaurants. Whatever the result, it’s guaranteed that the party will be going on well into the early hours!
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