Clondalkin Festival goes from strength to strength
By Maurice Garvey
RESIDENTS are looking forward to the next edition of the popular InClondalkin Festival – which takes place from Friday, June 29 to Sunday, July 1.
Now in its eighth year, the festival has gone from strength to strength, and saw a huge turnout last year.
Clondalkin Youth Band at the festival last year
Thyes Kavanagh, Festival Director and Clondalkin Chamber of Commerce, said the festival kicks off on Friday, June 29, with a pop-up Gaeltacht in Quinlans Lounge at 9pm – residents can meet up for a cúpla focal and a bit of craic.
On Saturday, June 30, residents are invited to Clondalkin Library to join the After Dark writers group for an afternoon celebrating local literary talent.
Round Tower Heritage Group tour guides will be giving free talking tours on local historical points of interest – starting at the Round Tower from 2pm to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday.
Clondalkin Garda Station hosts its open day on Saturday, June 30, from 2pm to 5pm, displaying some of the specialist units and members of the Garda Band.
Clondalkin Handcraft and Horticultural Show will exhibit at Newlands Garden Centre on Saturday and at Aras Chrónáin on Sunday.
Anyone interested in growing, sewing, baking, knitting or crochet, can apply to take part on their Facebook page.
Big day out on Sunday
Mr Kavanagh said the “big day out” is Sunday when the village will be pedestrianised.
“The main stage, sponsored by Brian Mc Elroy Funeral Directors, hosts a spectacular array of live local talent, singers, dancers and a martial arts display. Puppeteer Denis Wiggie Coffey will entertain the children. The running order will be available from the stage on Sunday.
“Many local voluntary organisations and services will have information stands including Jigsaw, Clondalkin Toastmasters and The Airport Hopper. Specsavers will be offering free hearing tests and some of our sponsors will be represented on the day, including Ulster Bank and Clondalkin Credit Union.
“This year also sees the return of Paul’s Pet Parties, with his menagerie of interesting and interactive animals. Exciting street performances will have stilt walkers and a procession of historical characters, will appear in the village during the day.”
Organisers thanked all their sponsors and volunteers for their support.
Kavanagh said volunteers can still apply to donate an hour or two, and small local businesses can still donate a spot prize and get a mention on the main stage if they wish.
To get in touch, email inclondalkin [at] gmail [dot] com or phone 083 8446002.
