CROOM was alive with the craic agus ceol as Fleadh Cheoil Luimnigh came to town over the June Bank Holiday weekend.
The two-day festival brought people together to celebrate shared musical traditions with a packed schedule of performances, workshops, and competitive events.
Saturday kicked off early with an educational pollinator walk through Croom Town Park, beforethe focus shifted to the competitive side of the weekend where musicians travelled to the local secondary school, ColaÃste Chiarán, for official Fleadh competitions.
Back in Croom Town Park, an afternoon of live performances was enjoyed by a large crowd of Croom residents and visitors. Music by the Maigue featured Billy O’Brien, followed by local musical showcases and a singing workshop hosted by Comhluadar Luimnigh. Saturday afternoon drew to a close with a Local Vocals.
Tom Shanahan, one of the festival organisers from Castleconnell, Ahane, Herbertstown Comhaltas and owner of Plunkett’s Pharmacy in Croom, shared his excitement about the turnout, saying: “It was another brilliant turn out to the Fleadh Cheoil Luimnigh and we were delighted to be part of the event.”
Patricia Ryan, CEO of Croom Community Development Association, reflected on the weekend’s significance for the local area, saying: “It was fantastic to have Fleadh Cheoil Luimnigh return to Croom. The market on Sunday showcased just some of the talent in Croom and surrounding areas. Also it was lovely to see the young people competing in their tin whistle competition on the patio in Croom Town Park and all the while the playground was filled with children having ball. We were delighted to welcome so many visitors to Croom and introduce them to Croom Town Park.”