Galway takes first step towards hosting Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann for first time in 75 years
A feasibility study on what it would take for Galway to host the country’s biggest celebration of Irish music will soon be carried out.
During a Galway County Council meeting, Cllr David Collins sought the chamber’s support for Galway to host a future Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.
The Fleadh is a nationwide celebration of Irish music and culture that takes place every year in a different town or village across the country and always draws thousands of visitors and musicians.
Galway County Council Chief Executive Liam Conneally committed to conduct a feasibility study, saying that it would be of “equal benefit” to both Galway City and County Council to host the Fleadh.
Fionn and Hegarty from Co .Clare playing at the annual Fleadh Cheoil. © Mark Condren
“There is a lot of behind the scenes to undertake a project like that,” Mr Conneally told councillors. “It’s a significant piece of work from an infrastructure and financial preparation point of view.”
In August, Cllr Collins and Galway City Cllr Shane Forde introduced the idea of bringing the Fleadh back to Galway for the first time in 75 years.
In 1955, Loughrea hosted the Fleadh in a “hugely successful cultural event” which marked the fifth ever national festival.
Now, councillors hope on seeing the musical celebration on home soil by 2030.
“Galway is synonymous with Irish culture, music and the arts. We have a proud tradition of traditional music, a thriving cultural scene and a city and county that know how to welcome visitors,” Cllr Forde said.