Martina Mc Grath, a native of Clarenbridge and an NUIG science student has been selected as the 2009 Clarenbridge Oyster Festival Queen. A keen sportsperson, Martina plays camogie for Clarenbridge and is the daughter of Billy and Marion McGrath of Moyvilla.
She will be the face of the festival which is now in its 55th year and is very much part of local heritage — this year all indications are that this will be the most inventive year to date.
With the theme of the weekend being focused primarily on the major benefits of community involvement, this year has again seen the generosity and continued support of the local and regional business communities.
The key sponsors of the 2009 festival are Guinness, Londis Kilcolgan, Paddy Burkes, Failte Ireland and the Galway Advertiser.
The festival commences on Friday September 11 with the traditional Big Band Night with Mike Denver in the festival marquee.
The 2009 Classic Oyster Gala Celebration, the main Saturday event running from 4.30pm to 12.30am includes a spectacular entertainment line up featuring: Da Dearga, The Whiskey River Band, The Keaney Dance Act, oyster eating and sean nos dancing competitions and finishing off the eight hour extravaganza with the most unique Beatles tribute band, The Classic Beatles.
In between the music, entertainment and celebrations sample and savour the native Clarenbridge oysters. Throughout the day there will be unlimited access to a varied menu which includes seafood chowder, selection of breads, salads, seafood buffet, a savoury hot plate and tea and coffee. Admission for this event is by pre purchased tickets only.
The Clarenbridge Oyster Gala Celebration is noted for its style, fashion, and glamour. Year on year patrons and guests exceed all expectations in the fashion stakes. As a result the Best Dressed Lady Competition at the Saturday event has become one of the social highlights of the year! The 2009 Clarenbridge Oyster Festival organisers are delighted to announce Galway Now as the 2009 sponsors of the Best Dressed Lady Competition.
The prize this year will include a weekend hotel break to include an ultimate pamper package weekend and many more surprises to be revealed later so dress to impress or introduce your own sense of style to this unique occasion!.
This year’s host will be Daithi O Se, TG4 weatherman and winning judge of this year’s All Ireland Talent Show.
According to Anne Forde, festival chairperson, tickets this year are priced at an unbelievable €75, however numbers are strictly limited so early booking is essential.
To complete the festivities, the Sunday Jamboree will be run in partnership with the Alan Kerins African Projects. Children from the local schools community will have the opportunity to display their art interpretation for this year’s theme of “The Global Village”. This day will include a children’s disco followed by music from Jive Buddies.
With fancy dress and art competitions, celebrity guests and a celebrity oyster opening competition this day will not disappoint. To cater for all a full carvery lunch offering a wide selection of freshly prepared food and a children’s menu will also be available on the day.
Each year more than 5,000 attend the festival over the weekend and indications are that this year will be no exception! Pre- booked tables are already sold out. so early booking is essential to avoid disappointment.
Full details of this year’s festival programme of events are available on www.clarenbridge.com Ticket Line: 091 796766.
