The County Down town of Castlewellan prepares to host this year's Ulster Fleadh set to take place from the 23rd – 30th July. 25,000 visitors are expected to flock to the event to enjoy some of the best musical talents that the province has to offer.
The Fleadh features music competitions and concerts across a wide range of instruments and ages, with a packed schedule of performances and cultural activities as well as legendary traditional music headline acts.
Building on the success of last year's Ulster Fleadh in the seaside town of Bangor, over 200 Comhaltas Ceoltoirà Eireann volunteers have been working hard to put together another stellar line up of activities and concerts generating an estimated £2.25 million for the local economy.
With around 6000 competitors of all ages involved, the Ulster Fleadh is a unique family friendly experience offering something for everyone, bringing the community together tocelebrate music, song, dance and language.
Nestled in the majestic Mourne Mountains and home to sprawling forest parks, blue flag beaches and award winning golf courses, Castlewellan is the perfect location to host the annual Fleadh Cheoil, which means 'Feast of Music'
The packed programme of events includes guided tours of historical sites, cross community concerts highlighting the shared nature of Ulster's cultural heritage and sessions based around the historic peace maze.
Castlewellan's local Comhaltas Branch chair, Roisin Howell, said it was a fantastic opportunity for the town: "Castlewellan will be pulling out all the stops to ensure that this year's event is bigger and better than ever, and we will be working with local businesses and the council to ensure the benefits will be felt across County Down."
The Ulster Fleadh experience offers visitors the chance to listen to some of the finest exponents of Irish music from across the world free of charge, playing alongside their musical contemporaries in relaxed street and pub sessions.
Brendan McAleer, Director of Ulster Comhaltas, added: "The Ulster Fleadh celebrates all that's good about culture, and is an opportunity to showcase the talent of our traditional musicians, which is something we are renowned for worldwide.
"The Ulster Fleadh offers something for everyone, and with many of the events free to attend, it's a great way to enjoy some culture and craic, and maybe even inspire a few people to dust down a forgotten instrument."
The Ulster Fleadh is a truly singular experience where you can reconnect with friends and family by relaxing in a laid-back pub session or feel the energy of the feverous street music. Come along and experience an unforgettable week of pure Irish culture, music and family fun.
Go to ulsterfleadh.com for detailed information on the weeks run of events, competition timetables and more.
Ulster Fleadh Coming To Castlewellan
Date: 18/07/2018
