Wren Day tradition to be marked in special way in Mayo

Lá an Dreoilín (Wren Day), an Irish tradition historically celebrated on St Stephen’s Day (December 26), will take place as a family-friendly event in Mayo this year, thanks to local man Martin McFadden.

Earlier this year, Martin came up with the idea to expand the tradition to a family-friendly event in Mayo and also saw it as a great opportunity to raise funds for Western Care Association. Western Care Association (WCA) is dedicated to providing support and services to children, young adults and adults with intellectual disabilities and their families in Co Mayo. WCA provides a range of services including Residential Services, Day Services, Family Support Services and Social and Recreational Activities.

To bring his vision to life, Martin has teamed up with Sheila Moffatt of the Moffatt School of Irish Dancing, who has recruited ten dancers between the ages of 12 and 18. The event will also feature musicians from Mayo Comhaltas to perform alongside the dancers.

Together, they will perform in Newport, Westport and Castlebar on the afternoon of December 26. Performances will begin at 2pm and run through until 6pm. Each performance will last 15 minutes at the following locations and times:

• The Square, Newport at 2pm

• The Octagon, Westport at 2.55pm

• Corrib Oil, Westport, at 3.30pm

• Corrib Oil, Castlebar 4.15pm

Donations can be made to Western Care Association via https://www.idonate.ie/wl/event/LanDreoilnWrenDayFundraiserforWesternCareAssociation 

Martin has fundraised for Western Care Association over the last five years, curating various fundraising events, bringing his total contributions to Western Care Association to an impressive €5,000. On Tuesday of last week Deric O'Hartigan, Presenter of Virgin Media's Ireland AM, broadcast live from Newport to get a sneak peak of what's to come on Wren Day.

Martin McFadden said: “I’m delighted the Moffatt School of Irish Dancing and Mayo Comhaltas have come on board to support my vision. It’s all for a very good cause and I look forward to continuing my support for Western Care Association. These events are for the whole family on Thursday, December 26, and I encourage everyone to come out and support this worth cause. All funds raised go directly to Western Care Association.”

Dr Mary Boyd, CEO of Western Care Association, said: “Martin is a fantastic supporter of Western Care Association and we are so grateful for all he has done for us. We’re very much looking forward to the Wren Day performances which promise to be a wonderful community event and we’re thrilled to bring a little magic back to Mayo. All of the funds raised by our community makes a significant impact, helping us to provide vital services to individuals and families who rely on our support. Be sure to put this event in your diaries.”