Castlebar will be buzzing with excitement on May 21-22 as Féile na Tuaithe takes place in the grounds of the National Museum of Ireland - Country Life, Turlough Park. Now in its seventh year, the free, fun-filled family weekend is regarded as one of the best days out in the west. More than 25,000 people flocked to the festival in 2010 and visitors will not be disappointed with the programme of events this year.
The West of Ireland Beekeepers Federation will be debuting at the festival in addition to the usual line-up of family favourites with demonstrations on the art of blacksmithing, harvest knot making, basket making, woodturning and pottery along with thrilling displays from the West of Ireland Spaniel Club and Eagles Flying. Throughout the two days visitors will be entertained with music and dancing from the Fanzini Brothers, Sean Nós dancers, the Mayo Concert Orchestra and much more.
This year and to celebrate the Year of the Craft there will be an even bigger range of artisan craft producers from all over Ireland with a dedicated tented area where visitors can sample and buy quality food and crafts from Irish producers.
Tony Candon, manager/keeper at the National Museum of Ireland - Country Life, said she is very excited about Féile na Tuatihe 2011.
“Every year the programme of events gets bigger and better. This year will be even more dynamic than previous years as we have focused on the theme of sustainability, which we feel is an important aspect of country life today.
“There will be lots of entertainment and activity and we hope that people will come and join us in celebrating all that is good about traditional country life."
The festival will also present a showcase for sustainable opportunities including horticultural training displays provided by St Coleman's Training Centre, multi award winning C&F Green Energy and the potential of the honey bee with the West of Ireland Beekeepers Federation.
The Mayo Arts Squad will demonstrate how their installations have been made from recycled and sustainable materials, drawing inspiration from the permanent exhibitions in the galleries of the award winning National Museum of Ireland - Country Life
Féile na Tuaithe is a natural extension of the museum's purpose of bringing families together to enjoy quality time and learn about traditions of bygone days.
For more information on Féile na Tuaithe please go to www.museum.ie or find on facebook www.facebook.com/feilenatuaithe
