The Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann committee has officially launched its programme of music events which will run from Sunday, July 31 until Monday, August 8.
The important Irish cultural event is set to be one of the biggest gatherings in the Midlands region in recent memory, with vast numbers descending upon Mullingar to experience and savour the famed week-long celebration of traditional Irish music and culture.
The event is organised by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and will be hosted by the local Fleadh Executive committee with the association of Westmeath County Council.
Hosting Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Mullingar in 2022 is a very special moment for the community as it’s the town where Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann was founded in 1951 – making it a true homecoming for all involved.
The people of Westmeath will welcome both local and international musicians and attendees to the county. Huge visitor numbers are anticipated to events and competitions throughout the week which will be opened by President Michael D Higgins.
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is supported by Fáilte Ireland and Hidden Heartlands who promote the infinite variety of things to do for all ages in the heart of Ireland. With Mullingar being at the centre of this unique location, organisers of the Fleadh are encouraging guests to take in some of the sights while in Westmeath for the celebrations.
Programme Highlights
Martin Hayes and the Common Ground Ensemble, Sharon Shannon, The Bridge Céili Band, Daithí Gormley, Frankie Gavin and Catherine McHugh, Téada, IMAR, Seamus Begley, Sean Keane and Emmett Cahill, Anúna, Kilfenora Céili Band, Damien Mullane, Moxie, Four Winds, Meitheal Orchestra, The Blackwater, Breaking Trad and The Full Set to name but a few.
However, the most important events are the 150 competitions where people from all over the world compete through music, song, dance and Comhrá Gaeilge. For more information about the concerts or to buy tickets visit fleadhcheoil.ie/events The event will feature two ‘Gig Rigs’ in the town, lots of street performances and cultural events in various venues throughout the town including Scoil Éigse, a school that provides workshops, lectures and sessions during the week of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.
The Fleadh Executive committee is calling on the Midlands region public to get involved during the course of the week. With a vast swathe of traditional Irish music enthusiasts coming together, there is a great need for volunteers who can help over the week of the Fleadh. There are various opportunities to lend a hand depending on the time people have to offer.
Additionally, there is a huge need for accommodation for visitors and musicians. This could be a room in a house or a holiday home that is vacant. Those interested in offering a property, a room, or rooms, to visitors can register their accommodation on the fleadhcheoil.ie website. Equally, volunteers can get in touch via the website and by phone at 044 93 38954.
“We are delighted to host this year’s Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Mullingar. It’s been a long two-year wait but we know the people of Mullingar and the surrounding county will pull out all the stops to make this Homecoming something very special.’
“We’re calling on as many locals as possible to get involved – whether it’s playing music, offering accommodation, volunteering or supporting official events. We want the excitement of the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to be felt throughout the town. Being a proud musician and having attended fleadhs since the mid 80’s, I know it’s a brilliant week that everyone can enjoy, so we’d love to see everyone out and about experiencing all the Fleadh has to offer,” Fleadh Executive Committee Chairperson Joe Connaire said.
To find out more about Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, 2022 visit the website fleadhcheoil.ie or phone 044 93 38954 where people can register as volunteers, offer accommodation, or see the programme of events.
