There will be plenty to entertain in Athlone this weekend, as the Food and Craft Fair takes place this Sunday, July 2, to coincide with the Athlone RNLI River Festival.
The banks of the river Shannon will be transformed into a tented village offering a range of top-class food and craft exhibitors during the weekend.
While this initiative is an independent event it will be run in conjunction with the River Festival, which will kick off on Saturday evening when the IWAI motor cruiser flotilla arrives into town followed by a Guinness, oysters and jazz reception at Sean’s Bar.
The mini food village will be located along the promenade from Athlone Boat Club right up to the back of the castle along the riverfront, where exhibitors will keep people of all ages happy with hot food, confectionery, crêpes, popcorn, candy floss and more. It starts at 12 noon on Sunday and runs through to 7pm.
Local councillor Frankie Keena (FF ), who is a member of the committee, said that it is great to work with Athlone Chamber in delivering this initiative as it brings another dimension to the ambience of the town.
John McGrath, president of Athlone Chamber, said: “Athlone Chamber of Commerce and Industry is delighted to be in a position to support bringing such festivals back to the town, and is very grateful for the assistance of Westmeath County Council’s festival funding to enable this.
“We have a fantastic amenity running through our town and some of Ireland’s most beautiful public spaces on its banks which we aim to make more use of.
“This year marks a new beginning for the enjoyment of Athlone’s public spaces which we hope to expand and continue to improve upon in the future. Westmeath County Council have kindly supported fairs coinciding with two of the largest sporting and river events in Athlone this summer and have greatly assisted in the event organisation also.
“We would encourage all residents and visitors to Athlone to come and join in the festivities along the river on Sunday. Between both events, all age groups are catered for which should ensure a very enjoyable day out for everyone.”
Those interested in taking a stand for the Food and Craft Fair can contact Stuart on (087 ) 3813094.
