Beloved Wexford festival set to mark a decade of ceol, craic and community spirit

Irish Independent

3 days ago

Every year since then, the best of local talent has descended on Leo's native Lady's Island in a true display of community spirit with music, dancing, drama and much more. No doubt, the councillor of almost five decades would be very proud of the festival that now bears his name.
Leo was somewhat of a musical legend himself A renowned All-Ireland lilting and mouthorgan champion, he also performed all over the world with the Carne Mummers, including for the Queen in the Royal Albert Hall.
The festival is a fitting tribute to the man and his family are delighted to see its enduring appeal for the community of south Wexford, who turn out in force each year.
This year's milestone festival kicks off on Saturday, August 2, with a variety concert in Our Lady's Island Community at 8 p.m. As part of the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉirean fringe festival and with funding from Wexford County Council, the festival is also delighted to welcome All-Ireland Senior Céilí Band Champions The Bearthla Ó Flatharta Céilí Band as the headline act on the night.
Also performing will be the local Lagoon Junior Choir, Danescastle Music Group and Nick & Marty Kinsella. There will also be guaranteed hilarity with the beloved Ballycogley Players performing a few comedy sketches on the night. Tickets are priced at €12 for adults and €6 for children and are available on the door.
The festival continues apace on Sunday with a whole host of events, culminating in a family fun day in the afternoon. A 6k fun run will take place from 12 noon, with registration getting underway from 11 a.m.
The ever-popular tractor and vintage run returns and will leave Lady's Island at 1 p.m. at the same time as live music kicks off with the legendary Theresa & The Stars topping the bill from 2 p.m. There'll also be all manner of kids entertainment and the hotly contested sheep race.
"We are really looking forward to hosting this weekend and welcoming those traveling from near and far,' Festival Committee Chairman Brian Breslin said. 'The programme this year is really excellent, and it certainly has fun for all the family.
"The Leo Carthy weekend, over the last 10 years has supported the work of many charities within the region and this year the proceeds will go towards the Irish Heart Foundation, Wexford Hope Centre other local organisations, so we look forward to the support of as many as possible."
To check out full details log onto The Leo Carthy Weekend on Facebook or contact any of the committee.
The committee would like to thank all those that partake and contribute to make the festival such a success and acknowledge with thanks to support of Wexford County Council & Fáilte Ireland.