Ballyconnell’s beloved summer festival is back, and honestly, it couldn’t come at a better time. Running from Thursday, July 31 to Sunday, August 3, this year’s event promises to deliver that special mix of craic and community spirit that makes our little corner of Cavan something special.
Last year’s festival showed us what this town is made of – even with the heavens opening up, nobody let a bit of rain dampen their spirits. Country stars like Cliona Hagan, The Highstool Prophets, and Ruaile Buaile had the crowds singing along, and the sense of togetherness was something you could almost touch.
This year’s lineup has something for everyone. Thursday kicks off with the pub quiz – and if you know anything about Ballyconnell, you know our locals take their trivia seriously. It’s always a brilliant night out and a perfect way to ease into the weekend.
Friday brings the tea party at our Community Centre – and what a transformation that place has had with its €300,000 makeover. Bring along your homemade treats and catch up with neighbors you might not have seen since the last festival.
Saturday is Traditional Fair Day, and it’s pure magic for the kids. The little ones’ tractor run never fails to bring a smile, and between the pet show, craft stalls, street musicians, and the famous duck race, there’s not a dull moment. The fire station tour is always popular too – our local heroes love showing off their equipment.
Sunday wraps things up beautifully with a free family day in Eugene O’Reilly Park. Paddy Treacy and Jimmy Buckley will send everyone home with music ringing in their ears, and trust me, these lads know how to put on a show.
The evening concerts throughout the weekend feature The Danny Byrne Band alongside Paddy Treacy and Jimmy Buckley – three acts that understand exactly what a festival crowd wants to hear.
None of this happens without the army of volunteers, local businesses, and sponsors who put their shoulders to the wheel year after year. It’s become one of those weekends that really puts Ballyconnell on the map.
Keep an eye on the festival’s social media channels – ticket details and the full schedule are coming soon. Start clearing your calendar now, because this is shaping up to be another weekend that’ll have us all talking until next year’s festival rolls around.
Check out our photo galleries from last year’s festivities to get a taste of what’s in store.
https://ballyconnell.org/the-final-day-of-the-festival-a-night-to-remember/
Ballyconnell’s beloved summer festival is back, and honestly, it couldn’t come at a better time. Running from Thursday, July 31 to Sunday, August 3, this year’s event promises to deliver that special mix of craic and community spirit that makes our little corner of Cavan something special.
