Tourmakeady's Ceol na Locha celebrates 25th anniversary
The 2024 Ceol na Locha festival was officially launched at a function held in Máire Luke's. This year's festival is celebrating 25years and takes place from August 12th to 16th. Comhaltas Dhúiche Sheoigheach and friends provided plenty of musical entertainment during the launch and are pictured with members of the organising committee. Picture: Trish Forde
The 2024 Ceol na Locha festival was officially launched at a function held in Máire Luke's in Tourmakeady last month.
The well-attended launch proved a great success with Comhaltas Dhúiche Sheoigheach and friends providing plenty of musical entertainment during the evening.
This year's festival takes place from August 12th to 16th.
Classes take place each morning of the festival from 10am to 1.30pm in Coláiste Muire. The following instruments are taught during the week - Accordion, Tin Whistle, Fiddle, Harp, Flute, Bodhran, Guitar and Concertina.
Amhranaíocht as Gaeilge also take place, as well as art classes for adults and children and a Óige na Locha camp for the younger children aged five to nine years.
This festival has something for everyone, with sessions taking place every evening in the local pubs, where everyone is welcome to come along and join in the fun. As well as the daily classes, a festival céilí with Matt Cunningham and his band will take place in Máire Luke's. A guided walk to Tourmakeady Waterfall, a Family Fun Day and Barbeque takes place in the Halla carpark in the village.
During the festival week, the organisers will also be launching a book which has a collection of stories from the people who transferred from the West to Gibbstown, Co Meath in 1937/1939.
This year, Ceol na Locha is celebrating 25 years and is delighted that the talented Hernon Family from Carna in Connemara will be on stage in Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh on the first night of the festival. They will be joined by singer Don Stiffe.
Bookings for classes this year are online only at www.ceolnalocha.com. The programme of classes and events can also be viewed online and brochures will also be available at local outlets. Further information from 094-9544295 or email ceolnalocha@gmail.com.
