Local Notes: Writers group, Scrabble, Tea & Chat
The Ballagh U-8s, with some familiar faces in the management, with their new footballs donated by the Roddys and the Duignans.
Ballaghaderreen was buzzing again on Sunday night as locals celebrated a remarkable weekend of sporting success. The Rossies’ clean sweep of titles in 2026 had spirits high across the town, while Ballaghaderreen FC senior ladies added to the celebrations with a sensational Connacht Shield victory. The ladies secured the title with an impressive 2-0 win over Ballisodare United, sparking great pride among supporters and marking another memorable achievement for local sport . Local defenders stalwart Ava Hanley was over the moon with the win and paid tribute to the resilience of the team.
Roscommon SPCA will be holding its annual fundraising street collection in Ballaghaderreen on May 15th & 16th. Roscommon SPCA is run by a team of dedicated volunteers with all money donated going directly towards animal welfare in the county.
Scrabble every Thursday from 5-7 p.m. at Ballaghaderreen Library.

Crafty Notions is group for any type of needle work. The group meets every Friday at 10.30 a.m. at Ballaghaderreen Library.
Ballaghaderreen GAA’s 50/50 draw was held on Sunday, May 10th in Fiddler’s Elbow. The winner of the jackpot of €635 was Pat Murphy, Kilfree; selling agents, Newsround. Next draw is on Sunday, May 17th at Creaton’s Bar, New Street.
A writers’ group meets every second Friday at 11 a.m. at Ballaghaderreen Library. The next dates ate May 15th and 29th. New members welcome.

The Coaching & Creativity for Wellbeing Connect Café takes place on May 13th from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Ballaghaderreen Library. Take a pause. Reflect. Reconnect with what matters. The Coaching & Creativity for Wellbeing Connect Cafe offers a supportive space to explore your wellbeing using simple, practical coaching tools. It’s an opportunity to rediscover a long-forgotten, ignored, or quietly desired goal — and begin shaping a path towards it. Guided by the Rose Model, you’ll reflect on your purpose, build optimism, strengthen self-understanding, and explore what empowers you. No experience needed. Phone 09066 32537 for further details or e-mail ballaghaderreenlibrary@roscommoncoco.ie
Call into Ballaghaderreen Library for a cuppa and chat for Hello How Are You day on May 15th from 2.30 p.m. to 4 p.m.. This events is aimed at encouraging all to connect with those around us and engaging in open conversations about mental health. No booking required. Phone 09066 32537 for further details of e-mail: ballaghaderreenlibrary@roscommoncoco.ie
Every Wednesday 10am – 1pm Join Ballaghaderreen Library staff every Wednesday morning for the month of May for Bealtaine. Learn about the library’s online resources and discover new ways to explore library services. You can find out about: BorrowBox (eAudio, eBooks, eNewspapers & eMagazines), Universal Class (free online courses), Transparent Language (learn from over 100 languages), Who else writes like...? (a reader's guide to fiction authors), Blinkist (get the key ideas from top books, podcasts and experts in 15 minutes).
Take time to slow down and unwind with Mindful Colouring for Adults as part of Bealtaine at Ballaghaderreen Library this May. Enjoy a relaxed session of gentle creativity, conversation and calm. All materials provided—just bring yourself. Available in Ballaghaderreen Library every day for the month of May.
Monasteraden Community Enhancement CLG will host a Lip Sync Wrap Party in O’Dowd’s Lounge on Friday, May 16th at 8.30 p.m.. The event will celebrate all of the performers who took part in the recent Lip Sync fundraiser, with music and entertainment on the night from DJ Rowdy Dowdy. Organisers are encouraging the local community to come along, enjoy the celebrations and dance the night away in what promises to be a fun and lively evening.
Ballaghaderreen GAA has announced that its popular Summer Camp will return from Monday, August 10th to Friday, August 14th. Following the success of previous camps, organisers are looking forward to welcoming children back for another fun-filled week featuring games, sport, activities and the chance to make new friends. The camp will cater for all interests and abilities, with more booking details expected to be announced shortly.
Ballaghaderreen Film Club will hold a new monthly gathering for adults on Monday, May 18th, from 7.30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Shambles. Each month, a member will curate and select films to watch and discuss, with tea, films and chat all part of the evening. New members are welcome. To attend or get involved, contact James on 087 0940335 or Creative Places Ballaghaderreen on 086 8372921.
The Ballaghaderreen FC 50/50 club draw took place on Tuesday, May 5th with a jackpot prize of €275 won by James Neilan, Castlebar. The winning ticket was sold by Clarke’s Bar. The next draw will take place on Tuesday, May 12th, at the Community Park. Organisers thank everyone for their continued support. Tickets remain available in outlets throughout the town and online at Clubforce.com, while annual tickets can also be purchased for €90.

