Castlewellan is ready for week of Ulster Fleadh fun

Castlewellan is ready for week of Ulster Fleadh fun

24 July 2019

CASTLEWELLAN is set to welcome over 25,000 musicians and guests for the 2019 Ulster Fleadh this week. 

The traditional Irish music festival and follows hot on the heels of Castlewellan’s annual agricultural show, which saw 18,000 people descend upon the Mourne town. 

The week long festival of competitions, concerts and ceili dances runs until Sunday and celebrates all that’s good in Irish music, song and dance.

Some of the names on the bill include Zoe Conway, Donal Lunny and Martin O’Connor. 

There will also be the return of the Ulster Fleadh parade followed by a firework display and open-air music all weekend with lots of free entertainment.

Organisers say the event, worth £2.5 million to the town last year, marks the fourth consecutive year for Co Down to host the event, following Bangor’s back-to-back stints in 2016 and 2017.

Last year more than 3,000 competitors from across Ulster took part with more expected this year. 

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council says it is delighted to support the Ulster Fleadh.

“The council believe that as a result of footfall generated through events like this, visitors are more likely to return to the area for sightseeing, embracing our offer of food and drink or attending other events,” a spokesman said. 

“There is a clear economic benefit generated for the district both on the weekend of the event and following it with further repeat visits.”

Paddy Breen, Fleadh chairman, said: “We are hoping to go bigger and better this year as it is the 50th anniversary of our host branch, Newcastle Cohhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann (CCE). 

Last year we welcomed nearly 25,000 visitors to the town over the course of the week’s events. 

“Visitors to the Ulster Fleadh come from all over Ireland and we attract a variety of visitors of all ages - there is something for everyone.

“We have a variety of street entertainment and workshops for younger visitors, while Castlewellan has a fantastic hospitality to meet the needs of visitors who wish to join in sessions throughout the town. 

He added: “We pride ourselves in offering great value as an event, we have numerous free events and entertainment.

“We hope this will encourage visitors to spend their money in our wonderful cafes, shops, bars and restaurants and get a real experience of what Castlewellan has to offer.”

Festival organiser from Ulster CCE, Brendan McAleer, said: “The Ulster Fleadh offers something for everyone, with many of the events happening on the streets and are free to attend, its a great way to enjoy some culture and craic with friends and family.”