Bernice Harrisonon alternatives to movies and the mall
Fleadh Cheoil 2009
Tullamore, in Co Offaly, will be one great big music venue this weekend as Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann builds to a head. The streets will be pedestrianised, which makes things a whole lot easier for people (especially families with buggies) to enjoy the impromptu sessions breaking out on every corner and outside bars and cafes.
It’s the third year in a row it’s been held in Offaly, so the organisers must feel the atmosphere and scale of the midlands town is just right for the cultural celebration. Last year more than 200,000 people attended the various events, both formal and informal, that make up the fleadh.
Don’t miss the Gig Rigs at O’Connor Square and Market Square. Throughout today and tomorrow a series of acts will take to the stages from 2pm to 11pm.
More than 130 competitions take place during the fleadh, with participants coming from all over the world. The venues are dotted around the town. Buy a wristband at the fleadh office in St Mary’s Youth Centre and you can sit in and see how the musicians and dancers fare.
Pick up your lunch today in the Presbyterian Church, where a food and craft fair will be taking place from 11am until 5pm.
What would a music festival be without camping? There are three campsites for fleadh-goers: at Charleville Estate; Scoil Éigse (near Offaly County Council’s offices); and a motorhomes and family campsite on Tullamore Harriers’ athletics grounds.
www.fleadh2009.com