New festival to celebrate the 1798 Rebellion in Mayo county town

A major festival celebrating the 1798 Rebellion in Castlebar will take place in the county town from Friday to Sunday, August 25 to 27 next.

The three-day event is being run as a partnership between Castlebar Lions Club, Mayo County Council and other local groups.

Local pharmacist Ronan Moran told The Connaught Telegraph it is an opportunity to showcase Castlebar as an historical centre at the heart of the 1798 rebellion (see video).

It is also an opportunity to invite people who have moved further afield to come home and reconnect with family, friends and the town.

The Castlebar 1798-2023 Festival proposed schedule of events

Friday, August 25

2 p.m.: Launch of 1798 Diorama and historical video in Mayo County Library

7 p.m.: Parade with Town Band/Defence forces The March of the Pikemen with locals dressed as traditional pikemen and given pikes with some French re-enactors’

7.30 p.m. Gathering on the Mall.

The raising of the Tricolour at John Moore’s grave and official launch of festival.

8 p.m.: Exhibition of Letters of Madam Fraser in Christ Church.

9.30 p.m.: The Humbert Banquet and live music and events in pubs

Saturday, August 26

10 a.m. to 6 p.m.: 1798 Historical walking tours with local guides on the hour

Fun day at the Mall

Living history, pet farm, face painting, food fair, outdoor concert, Mock court case

Exhibitions and talks on the Mall, Christ Church, Library

8 p.m.: Daniel O’Donnell TF Royal Theatre

Live music and events in pubs

Sunday, August 27

11 a.m.: Wreath laying ceremony by French and Irish delegation at Frenchhill

12.30 p.m.: Wreath laying ceremony by government delegate Grave of John Moore with Irish Defence Forces colour party.

2 to 7.30 p.m.: Outdoor concert on Mall featuring the best of Irish acts

8 p.m.: Tumbling Paddies TF Royal Theatre and Live music and events in pubs

10.45 p.m. Massive fireworks display launching from barracks to end festival.