Castlebar's new 1798 Festival starts with 'March of the Pikemen'
The Castlebar 1798 Festival of Music and History gets underway this evening and it continues until Sunday.
It starts with a colourful parade, billed as the 'March of the Pikemen', and will proceed at 7 p.m. from Thomas Street to the Mall.
The parade will feature the Castlebar Concert Band and local participants dressed as traditional pikemen and armed with pikes, accompanied by French re-enactors.
This lively spectacle promises to transport attendees back to a pivotal moment in history.
At the heart of the festival is a celebration of Castlebar's rich history and its pivotal role in the 1798 rebellion.
This event serves as an excellent opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in the town's captivating past and learn about its historical significance.
With an engaging line-up of activities and events, the festival aims to provide both education and entertainment, making it an ideal outing for families and history enthusiasts alike.
"We are excited to present the Castlebar 1798 Festival of Music and History," said Ronan Moran, president of the Castlebar Lions Club.
"This event is a wonderful chance for families to come together, explore the town's heritage, and enjoy quality time while having fun."
The festival's schedule is designed to cater to a wide range of interests.
The event continue throughout the weekend, offering a variety of entertainment options.
Visitors can expect musical performances, cultural displays, and interactive history exhibitions.
The festival culminates on August 27 with a spectacular closing ceremony at 10.30 p.m., featuring a mesmerizing fireworks display launched from the historic Military Barracks in Castlebar.
This grand finale is set to leave attendees with unforgettable memories and a sense of unity within the community.
The Castlebar 1798 Festival of Music and History also extends an invitation to those who have moved away from the town to return and reconnect with their roots.
It offers a unique chance to rediscover the warmth of family, renew friendships, and rediscover the charm of the town that was once home.
Mark your calendar for the Castlebar 1798 Festival of Music and History, where history, music, and community converge in a celebration of Castlebar's past, present, and future.
For more information and updates, visit here.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
DAY ONE, AUGUST 25
Parade at 7 p.m. with Castlebar Concert Band/Defence Forces. The March of the Pikemen with locals dressed as traditional pikemen and given pikes with some French re-enactors.
Gather at the Mall at 7:30 p.m. for raising of the Tricolour at John Moore’s grave and official launch of the festival
Talk and Exhibition, entitled The 1798 Mayo Letters of Jane Fraser, at Christ Church at 8 p.m.
The Humbert Banquet and live music and events in the local pubs
DAY TWO, AUGUST 26
Daytime Events from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
1. 1798 Historical Walking tours with local guides on the hour.
2. Fun day at the Mall in Castlebar with living history, a pet farm, face painting, food fair, an outdoor concert and a mock court case.
3. Talks on the Mall, in Christ Church and in the Library.
Daniel O’Donnell plays the TF Royal Theatre at 8 p.m. Plus, live music and events in the local pubs.
DAY THREE, AUGUST 27
Wreath laying ceremony (part one) by French and Irish delegation at Frenchhill at 11 a.m. Wreath Ceremony (part two) by government delegate at the grave of John Moore with Irish Defence Forces colour party at 12.30 p.m.
An outdoor concert on the Mall featuring the best of Irish acts from 2 to 7.30 p.m.
The Tumbling Paddies perform at the TF Royal Theatre at 8 p.m. Plus, live music and events in the local pubs.
Closing Ceremony: A massive fireworks display, launching from the Military Barracks in Castlebar at 10.30 p.m., will bring the event to a colourful end.