The Athlone Croi na hEireann Festival committee will host its AGM in The Bounty tonight (Thursday, September 21 ), at 8pm.
Chairman of the committee, John Henson, afforded his appreciation to the hard working volunteers for delivering an excellent five day festival in March which culminated with a well attended St Patrick’s Day parade through Athlone.
“While the weather was really wet on parade day, the feedback from the public who came out in large numbers to enjoy this festival was so welcoming and positive,” Mr Henson stated.
John has been instrumental over the years in attracting large numbers of Americans from Providence, Rhode Island, and other US States to Athlone for the Festival activities and discussions are now at an advanced stage to invite US natives to Athlone once again in 2024.
“In extending a warm welcome to all who would have an interest in developing our Festival in 2024, I am of the opinion that new faces and new ideas are vital for its continued success. We are now looking for members of the public to come along to our AGM, to get involved on sub committees, to help with fundraising and to decide on dates for the 2024 festival and parade,” Mr Henson added.
Committee treasurer, Cllr Frankie Keena, thanked all the local businesses and Westmeath County Council for their generous sponsorship which made the festival in March a major success.
“This financial support is very much appreciated as without it there would be no festival and parade. We were also so grateful to TUS for hosting a number of events.
“The Athlone Croi Na hEireann Festival is now well established as a major spring event in our calendar year. This is important for Athlone as it further strives to host a number of top quality festivals each year that will attract visitors to the town.
“These festivals, apart from providing great enjoyment to the public, will also provide a much needed economic boost to local businesses,” Cllr Keena concluded.
