Old Mayo tradition being revived for Christmas

THE Waits, one of Castlebar's oldest traditions dating back over 150 years, is to be revived for one night only.

It will take place in the town centre on Friday night, December 20, at 8 p.m. and will pass through Rush Street, Main Street and a section of Ellison Street.

It is being conducted by Stephen Guthrie and accordanist Michael Corcoran with all proceeds are in aid of Mayo Roscommon Hospice.

Families from around the town will fondly recall the tradition which died away a number of year ago in which the sound of ‘Silent Night’ on the accordion slowly passed houses as their family names were being called out in the dead of night.

This tradition was special for younger members of households as it was so associated with Christmas.

In times gone by parents would wake up children at 2 a.m. to hear the sounds of 'The Waits' breaking the silence of the night with warm greetings which included with the words: “On a cold and frosty morning.”

Stephen Guthrie, Dessie Dunne, Joe Geraghty, Paddy Clarke, Pakie Forde, a Mr. McCormack, and not forgetting Paddy Gannon, who did it for one year, are all names associated with this great unique piece of Castlebar history.

People who remember those legendary times are encouraged to join the crowds that will come out on the evening.

It will start at Moran’s pub on Rush Street at 8 p.m. and proceed The Irish House at Ellison Street for a musical finale with the Castlebar Concert Band.

So gather your children and grandchildren and come and be part of that 150-year-old tradition once again.