Brought to you by Discover Ireland
OK, so we know it’s fantastic because this mega festival has managed to remain a part of Ireland’s summer scene for 68 years!
The Fleadh Cheoil is undoubtedly the very best way to celebrate all things great about traditional Irish music, dancing, culture and singing.
In its 69th year, the festival is taking place in Drogheda from August 10 to August 18 and every piece of the town will be devoted to dazzling sessions, captivating céilís and lots of craic.
Sure what better reason could there be to take a break in this gorgeous spot within Ireland’s Ancient East? Here’s what to get up to.
It’s Host to Fab Concerts
Music lovers, there’s an endless choice of gigs. Damien Dempsey is to headline the opening night concert at the Fleadh Concert Dome, while Sárán, Tadhg Mulligan, Téada and Seamus Begley are all part of the lineup.
How about catching Zoe Conway and John McIntyre at the same spot along with support from the wonderful RTÉ Concert Orchestra on August 13? Definitely worth your while.
There’s a huge range of venues also including St. Peter’s Church (where Eleanor McEvoy and Damien Butcher are in concert, August 11) and the Augustinian Church which will see trad legends Martin Hayes and Steve Cooney play on August 12.
On August 14, there’s the chance to see Cherish the Ladies (the highly acclaimed Irish American ensemble) showcase their latest album — Heart of the Home.
It’s a Festival for ALL
The Fleadh Cheoil has something that appeals to everyone, making it very family-friendly indeed. With a huge range of céilí dances, trad music sessions and Sean-nós singing competitions — you’ll be spoiled for choice.
The festival also puts a major emphasis on the next generation of musical talent, and rightly so. Many of today’s brightest stars have cut their teeth at the Fleadh. So if you’ve a grá for Gaeilge, this place during Fleadh week will be superb.
And let’s not forget the FOOD. Between delicious street food and Drogheda’s impressive range of dining options, everyone will be in their element. Try to get a table at the Eastern Seaboard restaurant. A glowing Irish Times review quipped that it’s ‘a Drogheda restaurant so good, even Dundalk people like it’.
Also, there’s an extensive list of accommodation options on the Fleadh website but if you can nab yourself a room at the luxury four-star D Hotel in the heart of Drogheda, you’ll be at the centre of all the excitement.
Explore the Wee County
Even though it’s Ireland’s smallest, or ‘wee’ county, Louth still provides us with so much to see.
For a start, the distinctive Millmount Fort has stunning views over the town, and a tour will have you learning lots about its remarkable history, dating back to Cromwellian times.
St. Peter’s Church is a big attraction. There’s a remarkable national shrine dedicated to the head of St. Oliver Plunkett — a former Archbishop of Armagh — and trust us, if you haven’t heard it yet, the story behind all this is quite something.
If you’re keen to make your county Louth trip extra special, head to Carlingford.
It’s the quaint, yet lively medieval town and it’s one of Louth’s most popular destinations. It’s around a 30-minute drive from Dundalk too and it boasts a beautiful view of Carlingford Lough.
You can check out the best watersport activities in Ireland’s Ancient East too! The area’s sheltered waters make it the perfect place to give kayaking or stand-up paddling a go, even if it’s your first time.
To recoup after your activities, there’s a huge choice of restaurants and pubs to help you make a proper evening of it. If you’re looking for some place to really help mark the occasion, consider booking a night or two at the elegant Ghan House. It’s just a short walk from the town centre.
Now… sign us up!
Brought to you by Discover Ireland
A festival makes your break, so click on the image below to discover even more things to do that’ll make your break in Ireland something really special. Go to our festival hub here on Her to see more of what’s happening too!
