By Dan Walsh at the opening ceremony of Fleadh 2024 in Wexford
Wexford is set to welcome an estimated 500,000 music lovers and 15,000 musicians to the welcoming South-East over the next 11 days and today (Sunday), President Michael D. Higgins opened the traditional music celebration of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024 in Wexford town from the Wexford Credit Union Gig Rig on Wexford Quay.
The ceremony launched a week-long celebration of Irish music, dance, song, storytelling, and comhrá Gaeilge that will run from August 4th-11th inclusive, organised by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and hosted by the local Wexford Town Fleadh Executive Committee in association with Wexford County Council.
President Higgins and Ms. Sabina Higgins were warmly welcomed by the Fleadh Executive Committee and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, where he gave an address celebrating Wexford Town’s inaugural year hosting the world’s largest traditional music festival. He remarked that Wexford is known globally for its warm welcomes and unforgettable cultural experiences.
“The Fleadh Cheoil holds a special place in the hearts of the Irish people, both at home and abroad. It is such a significant and special celebratory event in Ireland’s cultural calendar, the largest of its kind in the world, dedicated to celebrating our musical traditions, a time when we come together and welcome so many visitors from around the world who have come to celebrate our Irish music, song, dance and language, that vibrant tapestry of traditional Irish culture that has been woven over centuries,” said President Higgins.
Cathaoirleach of the Fleadh Executive Committee, Eddie Taaffe, said; “We’re delighted to welcome Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to Wexford town. A tremendous amount of preparation, diligence and care has gone into creating what is set to be one of the biggest and best Fleadhs ever. We were honoured to host President Michael D. Higgins, who opened the event today at the Gig Rig. We look forward to welcoming over 500,000 visitors to the sunny South East over the next week. We know they will receive a warm welcome and enjoy all our great county has to offer.”
CEO of Fáilte Ireland Paul Kelly told the large attendance; “Fáilte Ireland and Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann have a long history together and we’re so pleased to support this year’s festival in Wexford. Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann has developed a spectacular programme which celebrates our traditional music and culture in new and exciting ways that will give visitors the opportunity to experience the very best of what Wexford and Ireland’s Ancient East have to offer. Festivals are crucial to the tourism sector, and with an expected 500,000 domestic and international visitors this year, Fleadh Cheoil will significantly boost the local economy in the Wexford region.”
Other speakers from the stage included Cllr George Lawlor, Mayor of Wexford, Cllr Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Ms. Attracta Ni Bhrádaigh, Uachtarán Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, An t-Uas. Labhrás Ó Murchú, Ard-Stiúrthóir Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, Mr. Joss O’Connor, Wexford Credit Union and Mr. Eddie Taaffe, Chairman of Fleadh Cheoil 2024 and Chief Executive of Wexford County Council. Mr. Pat Flanagan, Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann was master of ceremonies.
An Ecumenical Blessing was by performed by Bishop Ger Nash, Very Rev. Billy Swan, Administrator, Wexford Parish and The Reverend Canon Nicola Halford, Rector Enniscorthy Union of Parishes.
This year’s theme, ‘A Fleadh for All’, truly embodies the festival’s spirit of inclusivity and diversity. It’s a celebration that warmly welcomes everyone, from seasoned attendees to first-time visitors. The Fleadh will host a significant international audience and feature a diverse lineup of 15,000 musicians, dancers, singers and storytellers from various communities across Ireland, all brought together by their love of traditional Irish music, dance and culture.
With an exciting and varied programme that caters to all tastes, there’s something for everyone at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024. Visitors to the town can experience the Fleadh’s acclaimed music and dance competitions, see performances from international and local acts, attend workshops and lectures, learn about the history, and enjoy all Wexford Town has to offer through guided tours. Wexford Town, nestled in Ireland’s Ancient East, provides more than just a picturesque backdrop for the celebrations. Attendees are encouraged to explore the wider county, with its sprawling coastline, bustling towns, and rich history.
The Irish diaspora stretches to 80 million people worldwide. Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, the largest event of its kind, serves as a melting pot of culture, of people coming together to celebrate traditional music and Irish heritage from across the world.
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is kindly supported by Wexford County Council, Wexford Credit Union and Fáilte Ireland. RTÉ and TG4 will once again act as broadcast and live broadcasting partners, respectively.
For more information and to stay updated on Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024, visit https://fleadhcheoil.ie/
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