As autumn arrives, Westmeath is buzzing with festivals that celebrate Irish culture, music, and community. The Viking River Festival Athlone and the Lakeland Sessions Festival are just the start. Our guide to autumn 2024 invites you to experience a world full of magic and joy.
So, what makes these festivals stand out? Why should you visit Westmeath this autumn? Let us show you the hidden treasures and key events that promise unforgettable memories and a deeper love for Irish heritage.
Key Takeaways
- Westmeath, Ireland, is hosting a diverse range of autumn festivals in 2024, showcasing the best of Irish culture, music, and community spirit.
- The guide covers popular events like the Viking River Festival Athlone and the Lakeland Sessions Festival, as well as lesser-known gems.
- Visitors can expect to immerse themselves in a world of enchantment and delight, with a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of Irish heritage.
- The festivals offer a wide range of activities, from music and dance to food and crafts, catering to various interests and age groups.
- Attending these festivals is an excellent opportunity to discover the unique charm and vibrant community of Westmeath during the autumn season.
Introduction to Autumn Festivals in Westmeath
Westmeath is known for its autumn festivals that celebrate its culture, art, and community. These events are perfect for both locals and visitors. They offer a mix of music, art, food, and activities for families. You can enjoy traditional Irish music and dance or explore arts and crafts.
The Viking River Festival in Athlone and Féile na Sionnaine are just the start. Music lovers can enjoy the Lakeland Sessions Festival. Foodies can try the local cuisine at various festivals. The HER Outdoors Week and August Craft Month add to the cultural scene, showing off talents in art and the outdoors.
Westmeath also has many cultural events, like The Valley of The Squinting Windows and ABBA Forever at the Mullingar Arts Centre. Fans of music and comedy will enjoy shows by Jarlath Regan and the Taylor Fever Tour. Families can dive into the magical world of Alice In Wonderland.
The autumn festival season in Westmeath is a celebration of its lively spirit. It invites everyone to join in with cultural events, music, art, and community activities. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these events will make a lasting impression on you.
Festivals in Westmeath autumn 2024
Westmeath’s autumn is full of exciting festivals. They celebrate the area’s rich culture. Events like the Viking River Festival Athlone, Féile na Sionnaine Athlone, and the Lakeland Sessions Festival are highlights. They let visitors enjoy Irish music, dance, and arts in the beautiful Westmeath countryside.
Viking River Festival Athlone
The Viking River Festival Athlone is perfect for history lovers. It offers thrilling Viking reenactments, authentic crafts, and delicious food. Plus, there’s live music and dance. The festival takes place by the river, adding to the Viking theme.
Féile na Sionnaine Athlone
Féile na Sionnaine Athlone is all about Irish traditions. You can enjoy sean-nós singing, céilí dances, and Irish folk music. There are also stalls selling unique crafts and local produce.
Lakeland Sessions Festival
The Lakeland Sessions Festival celebrates Westmeath’s music. It features a mix of classical, folk, and rock music. The setting by the lake makes it a great place for music lovers.
These festivals are a great way to see Westmeath’s culture. Whether you like history, music, or traditional arts, there’s something for everyone in autumn.
HER Outdoors Week Westmeath Events
We’re excited to share HER Outdoors Week, a celebration of women in outdoor activities in Westmeath. This event in the Midlands will have a mix of outdoor events for families. It aims to inspire and empower women to enjoy the outdoors.
There will be thrilling hikes and peaceful kayaking on Lough Ree for all ages and skills. We’ve also planned outdoor yoga sessions. These will let people connect with nature and find peace in Westmeath’s beautiful landscapes.
Event | Description | Date |
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Kayaking on Lough Ree | Explore the serene waters of Lough Ree and discover the hidden gems of Westmeath’s waterways. | August 12th, 2024 |
Guided Hike in Mullaghmeen Forest | Immerse yourself in the lush greenery of Mullaghmeen Forest and enjoy the breathtaking views. | August 14th, 2024 |
Outdoor Yoga at Belvedere House | Rejuvenate your mind and body with a rejuvenating yoga session amidst the stunning grounds of Belvedere House. | August 16th, 2024 |
These family-friendly festivals are a great way to connect with nature and explore Westmeath’s beauty. They also offer a chance to meet others who share your interests. Join us for HER Outdoors Week in Westmeath to celebrate adventure and women’s empowerment.
August Craft Month in Westmeath
In August, Westmeath celebrates its arts and crafts with a vibrant month-long event. Visitors can see a wide range of exhibitions. They feature the amazing work of local artists, from traditional Irish textiles to modern ceramics. There are also workshops and demonstrations where you can learn new skills from the artists themselves.
Arts and Crafts Exhibitions
August Craft Month lets us dive into the world of local arts and crafts. Across Westmeath, there are many exhibitions that highlight the talents of local artisans. For example, the Royal Hibernian Academy of Arts (RHA) Annual Exhibition is in its 194th year. It’s Ireland’s biggest and longest-running open exhibition.
Another event is the Meitheal exhibition “Land to the Hand,” celebrating Irish Galway Wool. It featured 32 participants with their textiles, knitwear, and more, all made with Irish wool. The farmers brought in 5,000 kg of wool, earning €2.50 per kilogram.
Workshops and Demonstrations
August Craft Month also has workshops and demonstrations. You can learn from the experts in various crafts. From traditional Irish textiles to modern ceramics, there’s something for everyone.
The Feltmakers Ireland group was part of the Meitheal exhibition. Artists like Astrid Tomrop-Hofmann and Juliane Gorman shared their feltmaking skills through workshops and demos.
Whether you’re an arts and crafts expert or just starting out, August Craft Month in Westmeath is an inspiring experience. It’s a chance to see the creative scene up close and learn from the best.
Cultural Events in Westmeath
Westmeath’s cultural scene is full of life, showing off the area’s deep history and artistic skills. The Valley of The Squinting Windows and ABBA Forever at Mullingar Arts Centre are two standout events. They highlight the region’s vibrant culture.
The Valley of The Squinting Windows
Experience rural Ireland with The Valley of The Squinting Windows. This play takes you back in time. It shows the social life and quirky charm of a small town, giving a peek into Westmeath’s cultural roots.
ABBA Forever at Mullingar Arts Centre
Music lovers, get ready for ABBA Forever at the Mullingar Arts Centre. This show is a fun tribute to the famous Swedish band. It brings back the energy and songs that have won hearts over the years, celebrating ABBA’s music in Westmeath’s cultural scene.
These events show the wide range of culture in Westmeath. They appeal to different tastes and highlight the area’s artistic talent. Whether you like stories or music, Westmeath’s cultural events will surely impress you.
Music and Comedy Festivals
Westmeath’s autumn is full of music and comedy festivals. Two big events at the Dean Crowe Theatre in Athlone are highlights this season.
Jarlath Regan ‘Yer Man’ at The Dean Crowe Theatre
Irish comedian Jarlath Regan is bringing his hit show ‘Yer Man’ to Athlone. Fans love his clever jokes and funny observations. His show is a must-see for those into comedy festivals Westmeath.
Taylor Fever Tour at the Dean Crowe Theatre
The Taylor Fever Tour is also coming to the Dean Crowe Theatre. It’s all about celebrating Taylor Swift’s music. Fans of all ages will enjoy singing and dancing to her hits. This event makes music festivals Westmeath even more exciting.
“Westmeath’s autumn calendar is a vibrant showcase of diverse music and comedy festivals.”
Family-Friendly Autumn Festivals
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, Westmeath’s autumn festivals are full of fun for families. A top event is the magical Alice In Wonderland at the Mullingar Arts Centre. It brings Lewis Carroll’s classic tale to life for everyone.
This show is perfect for both kids and adults. It has amazing performances, beautiful visuals, and all the favourite characters. Families can dive into Wonderland, making memories and enjoying Westmeath’s culture.
There’s more than just Alice In Wonderland at Westmeath’s festivals. You’ll find outdoor adventures, craft workshops, music, and comedy. These events are great for families to spend time together and try new things.
If you want to show your kids live theatre or just have a fun day out, Westmeath’s festivals are ideal. So, bring your curiosity and sense of wonder. Let’s explore the magic of autumn together!
Local Community Festivals in Westmeath
Westmeath’s autumn festivals are a treat for visitors and celebrate the area’s strong community spirit. They bring people together, showing off the talents and traditions that make Westmeath special. With music, dance, food, and crafts, these festivals give a real taste of Westmeath’s culture.
The Boyle Arts Festival (BAF) 2024 is set for 18th to 27th July. It will feature four live concerts at St. Joseph’s Hall. Highlights include Mack Fleetwood on 19th July and Stockton’s Wing on 20th July. Paul Brady and Eddi Reader with Alan Kelly Gang will also perform, closing the festival on 27th July.
The Sessions will kick off with a free gig at The Patrick’s Well on 18th July. The Regulars will play at the Royal Courtyard on 20th July, and Dave Byrne at Daly’s Lounge on 22nd July.
The festival office at An Ríoga will be open from 11th to 27th July, ready to help visitors and locals. Westmeath Community Development (WCD) supports these events through the LEADER Rural Development programme. This ensures Westmeath’s cultural calendar stays vibrant.
Festival | Date | Venue | Performers |
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Boyle Arts Festival (BAF) 2024 | July 18 – July 27 | St. Joseph’s Hall |
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The Sessions | July 18 | The Patrick’s Well | Free gig |
The Regulars | July 20 | Royal Courtyard | Free gig |
Dave Byrne | July 22 | Daly’s Lounge | Performance |
Westmeath hosts many festivals and events every year, like the Ballymore Country Music Festival and Winterfest. The Athlone Agricultural Show and Fleadh Cheoil are also popular. A new Festival and Event Training Programme for Community Groups is starting in February and March 2023. Led by Approved Productions, it will teach important skills for planning and running successful events in 2024.
Harvest Celebrations and Food Festivals
Autumn in Westmeath is full of life, showing off its harvest with many festivals. These events range from farm-to-table dinners to artisanal food markets. They celebrate Westmeath’s rich farming history. It’s a great chance to taste the best local food, meet passionate producers, and learn about the area’s culinary traditions.
The Lughnasadh festival is a big event, happening on August 7th from 1pm to 4pm at the Hill of Uisneach in Rathnew, County Westmeath. For £22.50, you get to join in with community events, competitions, and celebrate the Celtic god Lugh. He’s the god of arts, crafts, and skills.
The Hill of Uisneach is a special place, standing tall at 596ft above sea level. It’s been important to people for over five thousand years, from the early days to the medieval times. This makes it the perfect spot for the Lughnasadh festival, where you can feel the land’s connection to the harvest.
Westmeath isn’t just about the Lughnasadh festival. It’s full of food festivals and harvest celebrations in autumn. These events, big and small, let you dive into Ireland’s food traditions and farming heritage.
“The Lughnasadh festival at the Hill of Uisneach is a true celebration of the land, its bounty, and the enduring spirit of the Irish people.”
Irish Music and Dance Festivals
Westmeath’s autumn is filled with festivals celebrating Irish music and dance. These events let visitors see skilled musicians and dancers. They also offer the chance to join in the fun at lively ceilís and workshops.
The Your Roots Are Showing festival in Louth is set for January 17th to 21st. It will feature over 100 live performances for fans of Irish folk music. In February, the Belfast TradFest in Belfast will have concerts, workshops, talks, and parties over a weekend. It will showcase the best in traditional Irish arts.
The Greenfields Festival in Kildare is coming from May 3rd to 5th. It will include artists like The Whistling Donkeys, Sharon Shannon, The Fureys, and Aslan. The Forbidden Fruit Festival in Dublin, happening from June 1st to 3rd, will be at the Irish Museum of Modern Art grounds. It will feature international acts like Nelly Furtado, Groove Armada, and Freddie Gibbs.
These festivals celebrate Irish culture and keep Westmeath’s heritage alive for future generations. They let visitors experience the lively music and dance of Ireland’s traditions.
Festival | Dates | Location | Highlights |
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Your Roots Are Showing | January 17th – 21st | Louth | 100+ live performances for Irish folk music enthusiasts |
Belfast TradFest | February 23rd – 25th | Belfast | Concerts, workshops, talks, and parties |
Greenfields Festival | May 3rd – 5th | Kildare | Featuring The Whistling Donkeys, Sharon Shannon, The Fureys, and Aslan |
Forbidden Fruit Festival | June 1st – 3rd | Dublin | Nelly Furtado, Groove Armada, and Freddie Gibbs |
“These festivals not only honour the enduring legacy of Irish cultural expression but also ensure that the rich heritage of Westmeath endures for generations to come.”
Arts and Crafts Shows in Westmeath
Westmeath’s autumn festivals bring the arts and crafts community to life. They offer exhibitions and demonstrations that highlight local artisans’ skills. Visitors can explore a world of handcrafted items, from textiles to ceramics.
Exhibitions and Demonstrations
These shows let visitors learn from the artisans themselves. They share their skills and passion in workshops and discussions. It’s a chance to see the variety in Westmeath’s arts scene and appreciate its cultural heritage.
Event | Location | Date | Key Highlights |
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Westmeath Arts and Crafts Fair | Mullingar | October 5-6, 2024 |
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Athlone Craft and Design Fair | Athlone | November 2-3, 2024 |
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At Westmeath’s arts and crafts shows, visitors can dive into the region’s creative culture. They’ll find unique items and learn from local artisans. These events are a must-see during the autumn festival season.
Conclusion
Westmeath’s autumn festivals in 2024 are set to be unforgettable. They offer a mix of cultural events, music, food, and activities for families. You can enjoy traditional Irish music, arts, and delicious food at these festivals in Westmeath autumn 2024.
The Viking River Festival in Athlone and the Féile na Sionnaine celebrations are just the start. The Westmeath events 2024 will entertain people of all ages. You’ll also find HER Outdoors Week, August Craft Month, and many cultural events, music, and comedy shows.
Come celebrate the best of Westmeath this autumn with us. Dive into the area’s traditions, creativity, and community spirit. Make memories at these unique festivals in Westmeath autumn 2024.