As Wales is poised to make the most of one of the greatest shows on earth – the UEFA Champions League Final – the Welsh Government is also supporting a range of cultural and sporting events across Wales, contributing to our thriving events scene and making an important contribution to the Welsh economy.

In 2016, the Welsh Government supported 35 major sporting and cultural events across Wales which attracted 348,000 visitors and generated a direct economic impact of £53 million for the economy.

Following the Champions League Final, the Summer of Sporting Legends continues with Champions Trophy Cricket and the Senior Open Championship over the summer months.

The cultural events supported by the Welsh Government got underway with another successful Machynlleth Comedy Festival at the beginning of the month which welcomed 6,000 visitors to the town.

Focus Wales festival gets underway this weekend and Economy Secretary Ken Skates, will visit the event’s Digital Day on Saturday. 2017 marks the festival’s 7th edition, and will welcome over 7,000 people to Wrexham.

Focus Wales was established to provide an annual showcase event for the Welsh Music Industry and the Digital Day will focus on digital innovation in the music industry in Wales.

The Economy Secretary, said:

“Whilst major events such as the Champions League Final, being staged in Cardiff in just a few weeks time, provide invaluable profile and exposure for Wales to global audiences of millions, there are of course many smaller scale events, with their roots firmly planted in Wales, that deliver equally valuable benefits to the Welsh economy.

I’m delighted that the Welsh Government has been able to support the growth of events such as Focus Wales which make such a valuable contribution to Wales’ thriving events scene.”