A 12 member committee has been formed to oversee the Athlone Croí na hÉireann Festival in 2023, it has been confirmed.
Speaking following the festival committee’s AGM, chairperson, John Henson, expressed his delight with the meeting’s outcome, noting that he had been heartened by the fact that members of the public not only contacted him with apologies for not being in a position to attend, but also offered valuable suggestions about possible events and activities.
The theme agreed for next year’s festival is ‘Mná Na hÉireann’, an the firm belief which will celebrate the incredible contribution by women to society, both locally and nationally.
“This forthcoming festival gives us the opportunity to celebrate the women of Ireland and say thank you,” Mr Henson said.
It was decided to continue upon the success of the festival in March of this year and to host a five day event from March 15-19 2023. The festival will conclude with a major parade through the streets of Athlone on Sunday, March 19.
Treasurer of the festival committee, Cllr Frankie Keena, noted his delight with the numbers in attendance at the AGM.
“There is now an open invitation to all those interested in partaking in next year’s festival. The ‘Mná Na hÉireann’ theme is exciting and appropriate and will allow us an opportunity to run various themes in the parade which highlights women’s involvement in sports, work and entertainment,” Cllr Keena stated.
Deirdre Berry, PRO, stated that the ‘Mná Na hÉireann’ theme will add another exciting dimension to the festival and parade.
“We are fortunate to have so many women’s groups in Athlone conducting excellent work and hopefully they will come along and participate in the parade. As the date for our parade falls on Mother’s Day, the committee unanimously agreed to choose the theme ‘Mná Na hÉireann’.
“We are also working on securing a Grand Marshall for the parade and will make an announcement when confirmed,” Ms Berry commented.
It is planned to launch the 2023 Athlone Croi Na hEireann Festival at 7pm on Wednesday, January 4, in The Bounty.
“All are invited to come along where further details of the parade and festival will be made public,” Mr Henson concluded.
