CULTURE Inishbiggle Festival on this weekend

Inishbiggle Festival on this weekend


The two-day Inishbiggle Festival takes place this Saturday and Sunday, August 13 and 14. Now nearing its 25th anniversary, the festival promotes the Irish culture through music, song, dance and sport, as well as the beauty of the island and the surrounding areas.
A marquee on the site of the national school will feature a bar, music, song and dance for the duration of the festival. An additional tent will also serve food, refreshments and sweets.
The Bullsmouth Fishing Competition will kick off proceedings at 11am. Entrants can register at 10.30am on the day or in advance by contacting Chris Henry on 086 84441000. Later that day, at 1pm, Jim Henry of SlΡinte Tours Ireland will host a guided tour of the island. Participants should meet at the national school at 12.45pm.
Yawl racing has figured for a good number of years now, and this year’s race, which takes place at 6pm and is being run in conjunction with the Achill Yawl Sailing Festival, will be dedicated to the memory of the late Michael John O’Malley. Michael was a native of Inishbiggle, who served the island as a postman and ferryman for many years. He was also a passionate contributor to the success of the festival.
Tug o’ War Sunday sees the continuing battle between Inishbiggle and Ballycroy resume, with additional teams coming along and competing on the day. There will also be sports competitions for children on both days, and a children’s treasure hunt on the Sunday.
Last but not least will be Sunday’s Best Dressed Lady Competition – the weather will play an important role but as usual come rain or shine it will be keenly contested. The festival will close on Sunday evening following the draw for the winners of the Inishbiggle Lines competition.

Ferries will operate between the island and the mainland throughout both days from Bullsmouth, Dooniver, Achill and Doran’s Point Pier, Ballycroy.