The Mari Lwyd (Y Fari Lwyd) is an old tradition in parts of Wales that involves a group of people dressed in colourful costumes, including one dressed as a horse with a horse's skull, going from house to house and pub to pub. At each place they sing several verses which are answered by those inside with challenges and insults in rhyme, a battle of wits known as a pwnco. At the end of the battle, which can be as long as the creativity of the two parties holds out, the Mari party enters with another song.

This tradition is still practised in Llangynwyd, near Maesteg, and has been revived by members of the Llantrisant Folk Club.

Mari Lwyd carol
Wel dyma ni'n dwad Gyfeillion diniwad I ofyn am gennod i ganu

Os na chawn ni gennad Rhowch wybod ar ganiad Pa fodd mae'r 'madawiad, nos heno

'Does genni ddim cinio Nac arian iw gwario I wneud i chwi roeso, nos heno

Mari Lwyd carol
Here we come Dear friends To ask permissions to sing

If we don't have permission, Let us know in song How we should go away tonight

I have no dinner Or money to spend To give you welcome tonight

Bangor Community Choir Hear a recording of this song (arranged Pauline Down)