Following the overwhelming success of last year’s event, Neath RFC is proud to announce the return of the Bula Festival on Saturday 29th August – an unforgettable celebration of rugby, culture and community.

Last year’s festival marked the 30th anniversary of the iconic 1995 clash between Neath RFC and Fiji, welcoming thousands of supporters to The Gnoll to celebrate one of the most special relationships in Welsh rugby. The atmosphere, hospitality and spirit of the occasion exceeded all expectations, reaffirming the unique bond that has developed between Neath and Fiji over three decades.

This year, we’re taking everything to the next level.

A Festival Like No Other

The Bula Festival has grown into far more than a rugby match. It has become a celebration of two proud rugby nations, bringing together families, supporters and communities through sport, culture and entertainment.

Visitors can enjoy a full day of activities including:

• 🏉 Neath RFC vs The Fijians – a memorable, friendly, yet fiercely competitive fixture between two sides renowned for their passion, pride and attacking rugby.
• 🍴 Traditional Welsh & Fijian street food.
• 💃 Spectacular traditional Fijian dance performances.
• 🎧 Live entertainment and a special guest DJ.
• 🎯 Family fun challenges and interactive activities throughout the day.
• 🤝 Cultural displays celebrating the enduring friendship between Wales and Fiji.

Honoured Guests

We are privileged to welcome His Excellency Mr Jovilisi Suveinakama, High Commissioner of Fiji, together with Ms Nancy Evans, as honoured guests for this year’s festival.

The event has also received fantastic support from the Welsh Government’s International Relations team, further strengthening the cultural links between Wales and Fiji and highlighting the importance of this unique international partnership.

More Than Rugby

At its heart, the Bula Festival is about bringing people together.

It celebrates friendship, respect, diversity and the values that rugby inspires, while creating lasting connections between communities from opposite sides of the world.

The festival also provides an opportunity to recognise and welcome members of the Armed Forces community, whose shared values of teamwork, commitment and service closely reflect those found throughout rugby.

Building a Lasting Legacy

What began as a celebration of a historic fixture is quickly becoming one of the standout events on Neath’s sporting calendar.

Our ambition extends beyond a single match. We want to continue strengthening the relationship between Neath RFC and Fiji, creating an annual festival that attracts visitors from across Wales and beyond while showcasing everything our town, our club and our community have to offer.

Whether you’re a lifelong rugby supporter, discovering Fijian culture for the first time, or simply looking for an incredible family day out, Bula Festival 2026 promises something for everyone.

Event Details

📅 Saturday 29th August
📍 The Gnoll, Neath

🎟 Limited tickets are available – secure yours now and be part of one of the most unique celebrations of rugby and culture in Wales.

Get your Tickets Here:

🔗 https://neathrfc.com/tickets

Bula Vinaka… we’ll see you at The Gnoll. 🇼🇸🤝🇫🇯🏉