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RTÉ News
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- RTÉ News
Preparations under way for Ablefest 2025 in Co Meath
Preparations are well under way for what is set to be Ireland's first and largest music and arts festival for people with additional needs, which will take place in Co Meath this weekend. The organisers of Ablefest have said the non-profit event aims to highlight the importance of inclusivity and accessibility, and attendees class it as their Electric Picnic. This year's line-up will see the likes of Jake Carter, Johnny Brady, Brian Mullen, Catch 22, Matt Leavy, tribute act Irish Elvis, and Bingo Loco take to the stage at Fairyhouse Racecourse on Saturday. Festival-goers will also be able to enjoy a "myriad of creative fun" at an array of art and activity stations. Special toilets will be provided by AccessoLoo on the day for wheelchair users needing hoists while there will also be staffed sensory pods on site. Co-founded in 2018 by Shay Casserley and Kevin Farrell, who both have children with additional needs, this year's festival is set to be the biggest one yet. It is also the first year that Ablefest will take place at Fairyhouse Racecourse to accommodate a larger number of attendees, and the first year that Meath County Council is partnering with the event. Ablefest has donated thousands of euros to charities in recent years and organisers are now looking into using the proceeds from the event to sponsor respite care for families. Collaborations have also been formed with other festivals such as TradFest in Dublin and the St Patrick's Day Festival in Killarney. Co-founder and festival director, Mr Farrell said that he and Mr Casserley set up the festival as there was nothing like it already established in Ireland. He said: "We are very excited to collaborate with Meath County Council for Ablefest 2025, which is shaping up to be our biggest and best yet. "Ablefest is the first and largest accessible festival in Ireland, where 1.2 million people have a disability, and I am proud to welcome people from all over the country to Fairyhouse for a fantastic event." Meanwhile, Chief Executive of Meath County Council, Kieran Kehoe said: "Meath County Council is delighted to partner with this year's Ablefest event, once again showcasing Meath as an inclusive county for people of all abilities. "The excellent line-up and supportive festival environment will ensure Ablefest 2025 will undoubtedly be a great day out for all on Saturday," Mr Kehoe added. Tickets for Ablefest 2025 are still available to purchase online with organisers stating that all money raised is used to cover the cost of the event itself, or else is donated to charity.
Irish Independent
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
The top ten things to do in Sligo this week, July 16-22: Ballygawley Music Festival, Jazz Festival, Wipeout & more
Ballygawley Music Festival and Sligo Jazz 2025 get underway in the coming days, while South Sligo Summer School continues until this weekend. Check out our top pick of this week's events below. Ballygawley Music Festival Ballygawley Music Festival takes place this weekend from Friday July 18 until Sunday July 20 in Ballygawley and is expected to sell-out. Enjoy music from Johnny Brady, Mike Denver, Claudia Buckley and more. Tickets available from Sligo Jazz 2025 Sligo Jazz Project's annual Summer School and Festival runs from 22-27 July 2025, bringing a team of 33 world-class musicians from all over the world to teach and perform in Sligo. Sligo will become a global hub for music lovers, students, and jazz legends, as it hosts Europe's largest and most inclusive Jazz Summer School alongside its internationally renowned Jazz Festival. See for more South Sligo Summer School South Sligo Summer School continues in Tubbercurry until this Saturday, July 19. Classes and workshops continue, and there will be lots of live music and dancing throughout the remainder of the festival. Wipeout Wipeout Festival is taking place in Strandhill this Saturday July 19 from 1pm. The festival aims to promote new independently minded bands playing original music, giving them the platform to perform at an outdoor festival on the grounds of the National Surf Centre in Strandhill. This free all day music festival features bands from Dublin and Belfast and of course Sligo. Brendan Kelly band Enjoy a night of fantastic live music with the Brendan Kelly Band at Lillie's Cocktail Bar Sligo! on Thursday July 17. Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience a memorable evening of great music. Tickets via eventbrite Aine Gordon Áine Gordon is a singer-songwriter based in Belfast. Her music blends melodic indie folk with narrative-driven lyrics, capturing everyday moments through themes of longing, resilience, and life's uncertainties. See her live at Brees Strandhill on Tuesday, July 22. Tickets via eventbrite. Lunchtime at the Well Lunchtime at the Well continues with a special performance from Jacinta Ní Chonghaile, Aidan Shannon and Enda McGreevy who will be performing at the Hawk's Well on Wednesday July 16 at 1:10pm. These events are free to attend (pay what you can). Rambling House Rambling House takes place at the Coleman Music Centre in Gurteen on Wednesday, July 16 from 8pm. The Rambling House Concerts are cherished events that celebrate Ireland's rich tradition of music, song, and storytelling. ADVERTISEMENT Sligo Stages Rally The FAAC Simply Automatic/Sligo Park Hotel Stages Rally takes place this Sunday, July 20. A full entry of 165 cars plus eight Dacia Sandero crews will leave Parc Fermé at Sligo Retail Park, Carraroe, at 9am on Sunday, with the first car due at the Connolly Cupra finish ramp at the Sligo Park Hotel from 5.30pm. International Chess Day Celebrate international chess day this Sunday, July 20 at Queen Maeve Square from 11am-5pm where there will be workshops, casual games and a mini-tournament. It's free to join.
Irish Independent
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
June bank holiday in Monaghan: Five stand-out things to do this weekend
Though the Farney County might not immediately spring to mind, a growing number of families have discovered that Monaghan offers a complete change of scenery and pace, as well as a surprising amount to see and do for all the family. Here is a flavour of just some of those attractions ahead of what is expected to be a Bank Holiday weekend to savour. First established in 2001, this free of charge and for all ages event is without doubt one of the most eagerly awaited spectacles on the local calendar. Heading up its impressive itinerary is a wide and diverse offering of live music, featuring a whole host of leading lights from the world of country music. At the top of that list is none other than Antrim singing sensation Johnny Brady with The Wolfe Tones and Tina Turner tribute band, Proud Mary. No fewer than 11 other acts, offering a wide and eclectic range of music to cater for all tastes have similarly been added by event organisers. For the younger generation, face painting and a perennially popular funfair has also been included alongside the availability of a magician. A spokesperson on behalf of the event's organising committee said this year's festivities promised to be among its most memorable in recent memory. 'As always, we would like to invite you to come and enjoy this free, for-all-ages, event. Each year, the June Bank Holiday, is a special occasion for the people of Carrickmacross and indeed the committee, both past and present, as there is always something for all tastes and everyone is catered for,' said the spokesperson. 'A hard-working group of local volunteers have offered their time and efforts, along with the support of Monaghan County Council and businesses in the area, into making this one of Ireland's most popular family festivals. 'An event like this is a huge task and, as always, the work behind the scenes is never underestimated by the Committee or indeed, the people of Carrickmacross. All volunteers are working hard to make this year's festival even bigger and better than before for everyone who comes to visit.' It all kicks off from May 30 to June 2. Take in a visit to a local a local market Monaghan Town Farmer's Market is a hive of activity each and every Friday and this coming bank holiday promises to be no different as a raft of local produce will be on offer for members of the public. From delectable meats and veg as well to sumptuous cakes and pickles, you name it Monaghan have it as proceedings get off the ground from 10am until 2pm. If you can't make it to Monaghan, make sure to take in a visit to Glaslough as its monthly outdoor market returns, with a range of food, crafts and variety stalls to peruse at your leisure in the heart of the village. It all takes place from 10am to 4pm on Saturday afternoon. Musical masterclass set for Monaghan's Garage Theatre This Saturday, The Garage Theatre will be the place to be as it rolls out the red carpet for Footloose – The Musical. In what is a classic tale of teenage rebellion and repression, this must see artistical spectacular features a delightful combination of dance choreography and realistic and touching performances. Those interested in attending can book by logging onto the Garage Theatre's website. Social Dancing at Sliabh Beagh Hotel A new month and a new opportunity to get your dancing shoes out for an afternoon to savour at the Sliabh Beagh Hotel. This idyllic venue offers Failte Ireland approved accommodation and delicious dining options on-site - a place where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of life. For further details and music line-up visit the Sliabh Beagh Hotel Facebook page or contact the hotel directly on (047) 89014. Follow Independent Monaghan on Facebook Sample the delights of Lough Muckno Leisure Park There are hidden gems and then there are hidden gems that instantly make you sit up and take notice. Castleblayney's Lough Muckno Leisure Park undoubtedly fits into the latter category in that it of can offer something to suit all ages. Here you will find some of Monaghan's best buggy friendly walks, a fabulous adventure playpark (suitable for ages 2-12), picnic areas and coffee truck, as well as a wide range of kids activities including sailing, kayaking and tree-climbing, courtesy of Castleblayney Outdoor Adventure Centre.
Irish Independent
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Tubbercurry Music Festival is launched as Sligo's summer events calendar heats up
Sligo Champion Tubbercurry will be alive with the sound of music this August as a festival takes place in the town. The official launch of the highly anticipated Tubbercurry Music Festival took place on Thursday evening, May 29, at the heart of the town at Murphy's Hotel. The event marked the beginning of what promises to be one of the biggest weekends of music and community celebration in South Sligo for some time. Local business owners, community groups, musicians, and supporters gathered in the hotel's function room for the official unveiling of this year's festival line-up. Paul Murphy, proprietor of Murphy's Hotel and organiser of the festival, thanked everyone for their ongoing support and highlighting the festival's importance to the local community. 'It's no secret that Tubbercurry has always had music in its soul. From trad sessions in the pubs and the world-famous South Sligo Summer School, the wonderful artists who have come to the Old Fair Day through the years, to the musicians and singers among us and living locally—we've always known how to celebrate music. 'I'm delighted and very proud to officially launch the Tubbercurry Music Festival 2025.' A short promotional video followed, giving guests a first look at the line-up, which includes headliners Highstool Prophets, Johnny Brady, Paul Kelly & Band, support acts Seamie O'Dowd, David James and Band and Jason McCahill. Stunning visuals of the local Sligo landscape, paired with live performance clips, added an emotive touch to the launch, capturing the essence of what makes this rural festival so unique. The event also encouraged attendees to become ambassadors for the festival by sharing content across their social media platforms to help spread the word. The Tubbercurry Music Festival will run from August 29–31, featuring live performances, entertainment, local food and more.
Irish Independent
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Sligo's summer events calendar just got hotter as Tubbercurry Music Festival is launched
Sligo Champion Today at 07:37 Tubbercurry will be alive with the sound of music this August as a festival takes place in the town. The official launch of the highly anticipated Tubbercurry Music Festival took place on Thursday evening, May 29, at the heart of the town at Murphy's Hotel. The event marked the beginning of what promises to be one of the biggest weekends of music and community celebration in South Sligo for some time. Local business owners, community groups, musicians, and supporters gathered in the hotel's function room for the official unveiling of this year's festival line-up. Paul Murphy, proprietor of Murphy's Hotel and organiser of the festival, thanked everyone for their ongoing support and highlighting the festival's importance to the local community. 'It's no secret that Tubbercurry has always had music in its soul. From trad sessions in the pubs and the world-famous South Sligo Summer School, the wonderful artists who have come to the Old Fair Day through the years, to the musicians and singers among us and living locally—we've always known how to celebrate music. 'I'm delighted and very proud to officially launch the Tubbercurry Music Festival 2025.' A short promotional video followed, giving guests a first look at the line-up, which includes headliners Highstool Prophets, Johnny Brady, Paul Kelly & Band, support acts Seamie O'Dowd, David James and Band and Jason McCahill. Stunning visuals of the local Sligo landscape, paired with live performance clips, added an emotive touch to the launch, capturing the essence of what makes this rural festival so unique. The event also encouraged attendees to become ambassadors for the festival by sharing content across their social media platforms to help spread the word. The Tubbercurry Music Festival will run from August 29–31, featuring live performances, entertainment, local food and more.
