Paddy Drac set to be Grand Marshall at Tallafest 2017 this june

By Mary Dennehy

THE community of Tallaght gathered last Friday to officially launch Tallafest 2017, with the help of Paddy Drac, a few local chickens and two rabbits.

The diversity of the area was evident in The Station at Molloy’s for the energetic launch, with saw community groups, sports clubs, local businesses, politicians, a few Tallaght celebrities and residents of all ages gather to launch the festival – which celebrates all that is great about Tallaght past, present and future.

Now in its fourth year, Tallafest is organised by the Tallaght Community Council (TCC), with the support of an army of volunteers and local business.

This year the festival will be returning to Main Street, Tallaght, and the grounds of St Mary’s Priory and St Maelruain’s Church on June 24 – with a busy programme of activities that covers everything from local heritage to sports, fun games to arts and crafts and farm yard animals to face painting, food and live music.

This year for the first time, a PopUp Gaeltacht will also be pitching tent at Tallafest.

Speaking with The Echo after the launch, TCC chair Gerry Stockil said: “We had a great launch on Friday and are expecting another successful Tallafest this year.

“The festival has been growing every year and we expect this year to be even bigger, with lots of the favourite activities back and some new ones.”

He added: “The whole thinking behind Tallafest is to encourage people to take pride in their area, which is one of the best communities in Ireland.

“It also brings people together for a day of fun while showcasing our beautiful village and the amazing clubs, groups and services that are located here in Tallaght.”

At the launch, which was attended by County Mayor Guss O’ Connell and Tallaght Person of the Year Simon Sweeney, it was revealed that Paddy Drac, aka Paddy Finlay, will be this year’s festival grand marshal.

For further information on the free festival visit the Tallaght Community Council Facebook page or Tallafest Facebook page.