Counting Down to 2026: 150 Years Since Wrexham’s Year of Wonder

As you may know, I’m a proud committee member of the Wrexham Carnival of Words - our city's vibrant annual literary festival. Over the last 12 years, the festival has continued to grow, which is truly fantastic to see.

Now, something equally exciting is on the horizon under the carnival banner. Talks with Wrexham creatives, organisations, businesses and others are well underway to celebrate the 150th anniversary of 1876 – Wrexham’s “Year of Wonder”.

In 2026, the city will mark this historic milestone with a year-long programme of special events! But what actually happened in 1876 - and why is it remembered as Wrexham’s Year of Wonder? While Wrexham has experienced many memorable years throughout its history, 1876 stands out for several remarkable events that helped shape the town’s identity.

Here are just a few of the highlights:

A Monumental Sporting Moment

The Football Association of Wales was founded at the Wynnstay Hotel – a monumental moment in Welsh sporting history and cementing Wrexham's place in football history.

Ruabon Road Cemetery

officially opened for burials with the first being an infant, Ethel Irene Prichard. The cemetery was created to serve the growing population of Wrexham. it was designed by Yeaman Strachan whose idea was to create a "garden cemetery". Yeaman Strachan later became Mayor of Wrexham.

Roll Up - Roll Up

The circus visited Wrexham every year, but in 1876 it was a grand affair. A spectacular procession paraded through the streets, and a marquee was set up by the Beast Market. Attendance soared and exceeded the capacity of the standing platform!

A Blooming Comeback

The Wrexham Horticultural Society, which had been dormant, made a triumphant return with its first flower show in ten years – a colourful and much-welcomed comeback.

Treasures Galore

Perhaps one of the most remarkable (and almost forgotten) events was the Art Treasures Exhibition. A special pavilion was constructed on what is now known as Argyle Street. The original entrance arch still stands today, connecting Regent Street to Argyle Street. The exhibition ran from July to November and attracted over 80,000 visitors. It offered not only art but also food, drink, and concerts throughout the day and into the evening.

A first for Wrexham

That same year Wrexham also hosted its first National Eisteddfod, with large tents and a main events pavilion erected on the Grosvenor Road fields – marking a significant moment in the town's cultural history.

Horse-drawn

The construction of Wrexham’s first tramway began. Once completed, it would be horse-drawn – a major advancement in local transport at the time.

A Saucy Affair

Wrexham Sauce was an early type of relish or condiment originally known as

Noke's Wrexham Sauce created and sold by a pharmacist, J.F Edisbury.

It was showcased at the Wrexham Art Treasures Exhibition.

When you look at everything (and this is just a snapshot) of what took place in 1876, it’s easy to see why it’s being called Wrexham’s Year of Wonder. The 150th anniversary in 2026 will be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate these incredible milestones in a year full of spectacular events with some replicating the events that took place during that year.

It will share, showcase and highlight Wrexham’s rich heritage with residents and visitors alike while incorporating Wrexham's cultural and modern society.

We can’t wait to welcome everyone to celebrate this remarkable year. Follow the Carnival of Words and 1876 Wrexham channels for updates.