Once a staple of the rugby calendar for more than eight decades, the famous fixture at the Athletic Field drew generations of supporters before it came to an end in 1986.
Now, the occasion returns in a new form, blending heritage with community spirit — and carrying added significance following the devastating clubhouse fire that struck the club late last year.
Kick-off is set for 2pm, with the match also serving as an opportunity for the wider rugby community to rally behind Penarth in the wake of that loss.
The invitational side, named ‘Y Barbariad Cymreig’, has been carefully assembled to reflect both the traditions of the Barbarian FC and the modern Welsh game.
While drawn largely from the community ranks, it will also feature a number of well-known former internationals, including Andy Powell, Bradley Davies and Allan Bateman.
Adding further pedigree, current Cardiff and Wales hooker Evan Lloyd will take on coaching duties with the forwards.
And Wales’ former world-leading referee Nigel Owens has agreed to take charge.
The fixture has deep roots in Welsh rugby folklore. Known affectionately as “Donkey Island,” Penarth was traditionally the starting point for the Barbarians’ Easter tour, which would then take in Cardiff, Swansea and Newport over a packed holiday schedule.
Crowds regularly flocked to the ground, with one notable encounter in 1907 attracting 10,000 spectators, complete with pre-match entertainment from the Cardiff City Band.
Over the years, Penarth produced some memorable performances against their illustrious visitors.
They famously kept the Barbarians scoreless in both 1906 and 1912, while one of the standout clashes came in 1976 when a Phil Bennett-led Barbarians side were beaten 36-30 in a thrilling contest.
The Seasiders’ final victory in the fixture arrived in their centenary year in 1980, a fitting moment before the long-standing tradition came to a close six years later.
Now, more than a century after that first meeting, the anniversary clash has been shaped with careful consideration of Penarth’s current standing in the Welsh game.
The occasion will also carry a strong emotional undertone following the fire that destroyed the club’s clubhouse in December — an incident that prompted widespread support from across the rugby world.
The day’s events will extend beyond the main fixture, beginning with a Penarth Youth clash against a Welsh Academicals Under-18 side at midday.
Off the field, the sense of occasion will continue, with former Wales international Allan Martin — who featured in the final Barbarians match at Penarth — presenting shirts before kick-off, while Tom Shanklin will act as compere.
Celebrations will conclude with a dinner at the Penarth Conservative Club, where Adam Jones will appear as guest speaker.
For Penarth, the match is more than a nostalgic nod to the past — it is a chance to honour their history, unite the rugby community and look forward with renewed purpose after a challenging period.
