16-07-2025
- Business
- Irish Independent
Wexford's iconic Fleadh Harp to make permanent return ahead of the 2025 Festival
Just one of the highlights last year, was the installation of the iconic Fleadh Cheoil Harp, a majestic oak structure combining craftsmanship excellence and engineering innovation and not only will the monument return, but on a permanent basis.
Wexford TD George Lawlor was so taken by the craftsmanship, that discussions were commenced about giving it a permanent place on Wexford's quayfront. In October, Deputy Lawlor said, ''We are going to work on a permanent installation of the harp. Discussions are ongoing and we've already met with Buí Bolg on it.'
Last week, Fleadh Cheoil Executive Committee members including Deputy Lawlor and Wexford County Council CEO Eddie Taaffe visited the workshop of Bui Bolg, Wexford's own expert prop makers who made last year's harp with the support of Wexford Credit Union, to get a sneak peak.
Work began in January 2025 for Bui Bolg's dedicated team led by Artistic Director Colm Lowney. The structure has been expertly carved, from oak sourced from McMahon's in Waterford with the help of local master carpenter Jim Grant.
After processing the oak, the painstaking work of shaping and finishing the harp commenced. The harp which features a robust steel structure will be anchored into a solid concrete base and will receive multiple coatings of yacht varnish and epoxy resin, to ensure it can withstand the year-round elements of Wexford's weather.
Bui Bolg's Sales Director Mark Carey said: 'This has been one of the most interesting, stressful, and exciting projects we've undertaken.
'We've had fantastic support from Wexford County Council, and it's been a fantastic team effort with about 10 people directly involved. We're so proud to contribute something that will stand as a lasting symbol of Wexford's creativity and community spirit.'
The oak harp will be officially unveiled as part of the celebrations for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 and is expected to draw locals and visitors alike to admire this new addition to the Wexford waterfront.
