Local Notes: Coillte Come Home Festival a great success
Some of the huge crowd that enjoyed the Mayo v Louth All-Ireland Senior Football Championship semi-final on the big screen during the Coillte Come Home Festival in Kiltimagh.
Last week's Coillte Come Home Festival was a tremendous success, helped in no small part by glorious weather that drew large crowds to enjoy the packed programme of events. Once again, the festival brought the local community together in celebration of music, sport, friendly competition and community spirit.
The popular Busking Competition showcased a wonderful array of musical talent. This year's winner was Dave Try, an Irish solo acoustic musician with Claremorris connections who is now based on the South Shore of Massachusetts. Dave's impressive musical repertoire includes guitar, Irish tin whistle, uilleann pipes, Irish low whistle and trumpet, making for a memorable and entertaining performance that was warmly received by those in attendance.
The festival also featured the ever-popular Coillte Come Home Inter Pub Quiz, which once again attracted teams from pubs across Kiltimagh for an evening of friendly rivalry, plenty of laughs and impressive displays of general knowledge. A regular highlight of the festival programme each year, the quiz continues to enjoy huge support from competitors and spectators alike.
Congratulations were extended to Teach O'Hora, who continued their remarkable dominance by claiming a sixth consecutive Inter Pub Quiz title. Organisers also congratulated all of the teams who took part and thanked everyone involved in organising another highly successful quiz night. After six titles in a row, many will be wondering whether anyone can halt Teach O'Hora's winning streak when the competition returns next year.
Congratulations also go to Liam Lydon, Patrick Gilmartin and Darragh Egan, winners of the 11th Coillte Cup Golf Competition. Liam Lydon joins David Dodgson as only the second player to become a two-time winner of the prestigious competition, adding another notable achievement to the history of the event.
The festival also saw the conclusion of the highly anticipated Coillte Come Home Darts League 2026, with some exciting contests producing two worthy champions. Kitty McGreal’s claimed victory in the Cup competition, while Langan's Bar secured the Shield title.
Congratulations were extended to both winning teams for their excellent performances and well-deserved victories. Organisers also expressed their appreciation to all teams, players, venues, volunteers and supporters who contributed to making this year's league such a success.
The high standard of darts, the spirit of sportsmanship and the strong sense of community shown throughout the competition ensured that the Coillte Come Home Darts League was once again one of the highlights of the festival calendar.
Speaking to the , Ann Moran, Chair of Kiltimagh Tourism Festivals, said the 2026 even was a huge success.
“We had terrific crowds, helped by the weather,” Ann said. “Everything passed off without incident and we are extremely grateful to the people who turned up and the businesses and local sponsors who supported the various events and support all of our festivals. We’d also like to thank Mayo Co Council for their support.
"This year we televised the All-Ireland semi-final live on Main Street and there was a great crowd in attendance, and Mayo won which was all the better. We wish them the best in the final.”
Music lovers in Kiltimagh and across the region are set for a rare treat next month when internationally acclaimed Canadian singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist J.P. Cormier performs at The Folk Café on Friday, August 14th.
The concert will mark Cormier's first-ever visit to Ireland and promises to be a unique opportunity to experience one of Canada's most respected folk, bluegrass and Celtic musicians in an intimate setting.
The award-winning performer, who is based in Nova Scotia, has enjoyed an extraordinary career spanning more than four decades. A child musical prodigy, he began playing guitar at the age of five before going on to perform professionally as a teenager. By the age of 16 he had already recorded his first album and was working on the American bluegrass festival circuit.
His remarkable musicianship led to a career as a session musician in Nashville, where he performed at the Grand Ole Opry alongside some of the biggest names in country and bluegrass music, including Waylon Jennings, Marty Stuart, Bill Monroe and Earl Scruggs. Renowned for his versatility, Cormier has mastered an impressive range of instruments, including guitar, fiddle, banjo, mandolin, piano, cello, upright bass and percussion, earning widespread recognition as one of Canada's finest multi-instrumentalists. Over the course of his career he has won thirteen East Coast Music Awards and a Canadian Folk Music Award, establishing himself as one of the country's leading performers and songwriters.
Despite his international reputation, opportunities to see Cormier perform outside Canada have become increasingly rare. Following a serious road accident, which left him with significant spinal injuries, he greatly reduced his touring schedule and now makes very few overseas appearances.
His visit to Ireland has come about through a chance opportunity while travelling to Belfast to take part in recordings during this year's Fleadh Cheoil. With several free days available following his appearance, he sought out small venues interested in hosting an informal concert. The Folk Café responded immediately and secured one of the available dates, giving local audiences an opportunity that would normally require travelling thousands of miles.
The concert is expected to attract folk, bluegrass and acoustic music enthusiasts from across the west of Ireland. Attendance will be limited to around 40 people, creating an intimate atmosphere where audiences will experience Cormier's musicianship at close quarters.
Among his best-known compositions is ‘Hometown Battlefield’, a moving song inspired by military veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder. Written following his own experiences visiting Afghanistan, the song resonated with audiences around the world and attracted millions of online views, introducing his music to an even wider international audience.
The performance forms part of an increasingly varied programme of live music at The Folk Café, which has established itself as a welcoming venue for traditional, folk and acoustic performers. Just days before Cormier's appearance, the café will also welcome English folk duo Fly Yeti Fly, who return following a highly successful performance earlier this summer.
Organisers say their aim is to bring high-quality musicians to Kiltimagh while keeping concerts affordable and accessible. Both performances will begin at 8pm, with admission priced at €10.
With J.P. Cormier rarely touring outside Canada, his appearance at The Folk Café is expected to be a memorable occasion for local audiences and an opportunity to hear one of North America's most accomplished folk and bluegrass musicians in one of the most intimate venues on his Irish visit.
The literary talent of Kiltimagh and the surrounding area was celebrated in style as a capacity crowd gathered in Kiltimagh Museum for the launch of the first-ever ‘Kiltimagh Writers Review’, with so many people attending that many were left standing outside the venue in the brilliant sunshine.
The launch, held as part of this year's Coillte Come Home Festival, highlighted the growing strength of creative writing in the area and marked an important milestone for the local writing group, whose members have spent the past eighteen months meeting regularly to develop their work.
Published by Sinead McClure of The Calendar Road Press, the anthology is a collection of poetry, short stories, memoirs and reflective prose showcasing the imagination, creativity and diverse voices of local writers. The project was supported by Mayo County Library, Kiltimagh Library and Mayo County Council Arts Office.
Speaking to the at the launch, poet and contributor Terry McDonagh described the anthology as the culmination of a year and a half of writing sessions in Kiltimagh Library. He explained that the publication reflects the wide variety of work produced by the group, including poetry, short stories, memoirs and mini-sagas, providing a snapshot of the creative journey undertaken since the group was established.
Terry said fourteen writers ultimately contributed to the publication, although a larger number had been involved in the writing group. He explained that contributors selected what they felt were their strongest pieces for inclusion, creating what he described as an excellent balance of prose and poetry. He also confirmed that the anthology is available through Amazon and will also be stocked in bookshops throughout Mayo.
The publication brings together the work of fourteen contributors, each offering a distinctive literary voice. The writers featured are Terry McDonagh, Chris Glavey, Marian Prendergast, Bernadette Carroll, Déaglán de Priondargás, Tim Robinson, Michael Scanlon, Breda Freeley, Patti McNicholas, Monica Browne, Máire Ní Ruairc, Breda McCarthy, Mary Fallon and Joy Phibbs Bermingham. Together, their work reflects a rich diversity of experience, imagination and connection to place, creating an anthology that celebrates both individual creativity and the strength of a shared literary tradition.
Publisher Sinead McClure, founder of the South Sligo-based Calendar Road Press, outlined the process of bringing the anthology from manuscript to finished publication.
“Terry McDonagh initially approached me about publishing the collection,” Ms McClure told the . “I went about the extensive editing, typesetting and proofreading process after that, before the final version was approved by the group.”
Ms McClure said the project took approximately four months to complete and involved numerous revisions to ensure the finished book met the group's expectations. She praised the organisation of the material, especially the work of Bernadette Carroll in preparing the manuscript for publication.
“The book has been published using Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing system, allowing copies to be printed on demand while also enabling the writers' group to order author copies for local sales,” she said.
Ms McClure confirmed that support from Mayo County Council and the library service had played an important role in helping bring the project to life.
“The anthology features cover artwork by renowned artist Sally McKenna and includes an introduction from recently retired Kiltimagh librarian Bridie Wimsey,” she said. “The collection offers something for every reader and reflects the belief that everyone has a story worth telling.”
The launch reflected that sentiment. Throughout the evening, contributors read extracts from their work while family, friends and members of the public gathered to celebrate the event.
The book is a significant addition to Kiltimagh's growing cultural and literary capital. Judging by the remarkable attendance and the enthusiasm shown on the afternoon, the group has made an impressive debut, providing a lasting showcase of the talent, imagination and storytelling that continues to flourish in the community.
There was another enjoyable evening at the weekly 25 Card Drive, with a great turnout and plenty of closely contested games throughout the night.
First prize went to Alo Langan and Manus Kilcoyne, who finished on top after a strong performance. Joint second place was shared by Philip Moore and Jack Pidgeon and the pairing of Francis McNicholas and Tom Walsh, with both teams ending the night level on points.
The Last 10 prize went to John Clancy and Pius Forde, while Michael Carney and Michael Costello claimed the spot prize. Raffle winners on the night were Tom Walsh, Pius Forde, Richard Carney and Liam Moran.
Parishioners are reminded that the annual cemetery Masses will take place later this month. Killedan Cemetery Mass will be celebrated on Friday, July 24th at 7.30pm, while Kilkinure Cemetery Mass will take place on Friday, July 31st, also at 7.30pm.
The parish has announced a new webcam address. From July 16th, the existing Church Services TV link will be replaced by the new address: churchtv.ie/Kiltimagh. The webcam will also continue to be available through the Kiltimagh Parish website.
A new diocesan online address has also been introduced. The website achonryelphin.ie now combines the Dioceses of Achonry and Elphin into one online platform. Those wishing to access the Kiltimagh parish page directly can do so through achonryelphin.ie/Kiltimagh.
A pilgrimage to Medjugorje will take place from October 14th to 21st. Limited seats are available from Knock, and anyone seeking further information is asked to contact 086-2151338.
Holy Face Devotions continue every Tuesday in the Church of the Holy Family, Kiltimagh, from 6.40pm to 7.20pm.
The parish choir is currently seeking new members, both junior and senior, with a particular appeal for more male voices. Anyone interested in joining is encouraged to contact any member of the choir.
The Parish Office is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 11am and from 2.30pm to 5.30pm. For further information, contact Francy on 094-9253607 or by email at swinfordparish@gmail.com.
Kiltimagh Pickleball Club is encouraging new members and anyone interested in trying a new sport to come along and discover the fast-growing game of pickleball.
Pickleball is suitable for all ages and abilities, and combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, making it easy to learn while providing plenty of fun and exercise. Playing the sport can improve cardiovascular fitness, hand-eye coordination, balance and agility, while also offering a great opportunity to meet new people and enjoy regular social interaction in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
The club holds regular sessions in Aughamore Centre on Saturdays from 10.30am to 12 noon and on Mondays from 7pm to 8.30pm. Whether you are a complete beginner or have played before, everyone is welcome to come along and give it a try. Anyone interested in finding out more or joining the club can text or call 089-4841267 for further information.
Patricia Keenan was the winner of the Kiltimagh Knock United Soccer Club 50/50 draw last week, taking home €426. The club congratulated Patricia on the win and thanked everyone who continues to support the weekly fundraiser.
Ann King from Greyfield was the winner of Kiltimagh GAA Club’s weekly 50/50 draw last week, taking home €1,002.
The club congratulated Ann on her success and expressed sincere thanks to everyone who continues to support the weekly fundraiser. Funds raised through the draw help provide underage coaching, maintain club facilities and support ongoing development projects.
Tickets remain available online and through local shops and pubs.
A strong field of 23 players competed in Round 6 of the Summer Poker League at Teach O’Hora on Wednesday night last, playing for a prize pool of €805.
Following a heads-up deal, Douglas Wicks went on to defeat Andy Quinn to claim his first victory of the current league. Michael Higgins finished third, while Enda Ruane took fourth place. The remaining finalists were Alan Sheridan (5th), John Reynolds (6th), Nigel Maughan (7th), Dylan Coleman (8th) and Kieran McGee (9th).
Pat Boyle continues to lead the league standings on 133 points, with Michael Higgins moving into second place on 116. John Borza is close behind on 115 points, while Gerry Groarke has climbed to 112. The remainder of the current top twelve is Michael Sheridan (106), John Reynolds (102), Majella Gilmartin (92), Paul Walsh (90), Nigel Maughan (83), Enda Ruane (80), Derry O’Sullivan (78) and Alan Sheridan (73).
The Summer League runs over fifteen weeks, with a €50 entry fee each round that includes a rebuy or add-on. €5 from every entry and rebuy contributes to the league final prize pool, with the balance paid out on the night. At the conclusion of the league, the top twelve players in the standings, together with two qualifiers, will contest the Grand Final for a prize pool of approximately €3,500.
With capacity continuing to be reached each week, organisers have confirmed that no new players will be admitted for the remainder of the current league.
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Bohola
Mass will be celebrated in St Joseph’s Cemetery, Bohola on Saturday, August 1st at 6pm and in Straide Cemetery on Sunday, August 2nd at 11am.
Bohola Cemetery Committee seeks new members. If you are willing to volunteer, please contact John O’Brien, TJ Byrne or Peter Gallagher. Our thanks to the current committee who continue to do great work but more help would be appreciated.
Congraultions to Catriona O'Gorman who won a jackpot of €702 in the Moy Davitts 50/50 draw on Saturday, July 11th. A huge thank you to everyone who supported the draw, it is greatly appreciated. Tickets are available in the usual retail outlets and by playing on the club app (Moy Davitts GAA).
