WHILE autumn mists might signal a slow-down after summer activity, no one is hibernating in Ballyhoura country for the first weekend in October.
The unique blend of the Ballyhoura Walking Festival and the Joyce Brothers Music Festival provides something for everyone from October 2 to 5.
Celebrating its 29th year, the Ballyhoura Walking Festival is Ireland’s longest-running walking festival, offering a diverse programme that caters to all abilities.
For the fifth year, the Walking Festival joins forces with the Joyce Brothers Music Festival, celebrating the legacy of PW and Robert Dwyer Joyce, natives of Glenosheen, whose collections of Irish music, songs, and stories are still treasured today.
Adventurers can take on the Sunrise to Sunset Ballyhoura Challenge, the Half Marathon Hillwalk, the Dawn Chorus Sunrise Walk, or explore the fascinating biodiversity of the Griston Bog Bug Safari with local environmentalist Albert Nolan.
Families will adore the gentle Alpaca walking and farm activities, where younger participants can get hands-on with friendly animals.
The musical heartbeat of the weekend begins with a Gala Opening Night in the Old Chapel Rooms.
Amongst the great performers at this year’s festival are Matt Molloy (The Bothy Band, The Chieftains), John Carty, and John Faulkner.
The festival’s unique Walk to the Joyce Homestead connects music, history, and place, ending with tunes at the very home where the brothers’ story began.
Adding a burst of flavour to Saturday’s festivities, Kilfinane Community Council will host an Intercultural Food Fair on Saturday October4.
Full details at visitballyhoura.com/events/ballyhoura-walking-festival.
