THERE will be laughs aplenty at the forthcoming National Eisteddfod.

Once again this year, comedy will feature prominently at the event, with the comedy festival returning to various venues across the Maes.

Much of the thanks for the success of the festival this year and in the past goes to Cronfa Gari, a fund set up in memory of the popular comedian and performer born and raised in the Llanrwst area, Gari Williams.

The festival has grown more than ever this year in Conwy county, with nearly 30 activities thanks to the support of the fund.

As night falls, the literary pavilion will be transformed, as the Cwt Cabaret, the Eisteddfod’s very own cabaret club opens its doors for the first time at 9pm every night.

Events and activities are suitable for those aged over 14, so there will be a more risqué and innovative programme in the Cwt late at night.

Tudur Owen has the honour of throwing open the Cwt Cabaret doors for the first time ever on Saturday, August 3.

He will present an evening of Welsh stand-up with Daniel Glyn, Beth Angell, Beth Jones and Steffan Evans.

The Cwt is also home to this year’s Mas ar y Maes, the well-received LGBT+ festival launched last year.

Corn Gwlad is a fabulously funny yet heart-wrenching version of the 1924 Eisteddfod crowning ceremony, which saw Prosser Rhys win the Crown.

This work-in-progress is a Seiriol Davies and Cwmni Pluen production, and is sure to become one of the festival’s major hits.

The Cabarela Cabaret is back again this year, appearing at the Eisteddfod for the third year.

Caffi Maes B was the original home, as the concept was initially commissioned by the Eisteddfod itself.

But as the show went from strength to strength, and attracted audiences in all parts of Wales, it was clear that this Eisteddfod phenomenon needed a new home.

So, organisers have opened the glitzy doors of the Cwt Cabaret and invited Lisa Angharad and friends to perform in a larger and more suitable venue for one night only.

This show is not for anyone who is easily offended.

There are comedy sessions across the Maes throughout the week. Daniel Glyn is curating a daily stand-up session in Caffi Maes B, with a women’s only line-up on Wednesday afternoon.

There’s also a session for Welsh learners in Shw'mae Su'mae at the end of the week.

See eisteddfod.wales for more information.