Connacht Fleadh 2025 underway in Ballinasloe
Pictured at the launch of the Connacht Fleadh underway in Ballinasloe are Comhaltas President, Attracta Brady, with members of the organising committee. Absent from the photo are Fionnuala Maxwell and Anthony Kavanagh. Pic: Anthony Dolan Photo Credit Anthony Dolan
The official launch of the Connacht Fleadh 2025 took place in Gullane’s Hotel, Ballinasloe, marking the beginning of a vibrant week celebrating Irish traditional culture. Local councillors, musicians, community groups, and Comhaltas members gathered in high spirits for what promises to be a memorable festival.
Attracta Brady, President of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, commended the Ballinasloe community for embracing the event with energy and heart. “The people of Ballinasloe have created a complete circle of support. You’ve stepped up with leadership, energy and a positive attitude – a true reflection of what Comhaltas is all about,” she said.
Michael Cusack, Chairperson of Connacht Comhaltas, highlighted the extensive community engagement. “From GAA clubs and choirs to schools and cultural communities, the people of Ballinasloe have embraced the Fleadh and made it their own.”
Over the course of eight days, running until July 6th more than 40 events will take place throughout the town, creating a Community Fleadh for All alongside the official competitions.
Highlights of the Community Fleadh include a Céilí Mór on Saturday, July 5th with the Pipers Cross Céilí Band (previous All-Ireland Champions) at 9 p.m. in the Shearwater Hotel. The Connacht Fleadh competitions will take place over three days — Friday, July 4th, Saturday, July 5th, and Sunday, July 6th — with over 1,000 competitors from across the province hoping to qualify for the All-Ireland Fleadh in Wexford later this summer.
Comhaltas organisers extended their deepest thanks to the many supporters of this year’s Fleadh.
