Excitement aplenty as Fleadh Cheoil launches in Mayo

There was a sense of excitement in Ballina in Friday as the Fleadh Cheoil Mhaigh Eo launched for 2025.

The event, which is viewed by many as a cornerstone of Irish culture, was launched at the Jackie Clarke Collection in Ballina.

As part of the event, there will be a series of competitions held early next month.

On Monday, May 5, there will be dancing competitions held in the Ballina Arts Centre. Five days later, on Saturday, May 10, there will be two days of competitions held across a multitude of disciplines in Saint Mary’s Secondary School.

The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Dara Calleary, was in attendance at the launch, alongside Brendan McGowan, the author of the book ‘Taking the Boat: The Irish in Leeds 1931–81’, and the well-known playwright and poet Tommie Cooke.

Séamus Cawley is the chairman of the Mayo branch of Comhaltas, who are responsible for the organisation of the festival. He shared his excitement about the festival.

“It was a fantastic night, and we look forward to the upcoming Fleadh,” he stated. “Míle buíochas to everyone who has helped so far, and to those who will assist in the coming weeks.”

The Fleadh Cheoir Mhaigh Eo gets underway in earnest on Saturday, April 19, with a concert at Ballina Arts Centre, featuring Pipers Cross Céilí Band, Siobhán O’Donnell, Seoda, Stephen Doherty, David Doocey, Mayo Trad Ensemble, Fergal Ó Murchú, and many more acts.