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Newry is on a high for this year's culture and communities festival Iúr Cinn Fleadh - which starts today Thursday 22 August.
Some of the 80 or so events are almost fully booked already, so festivalgoers are encouraged to book now before every ticket goes.
Although most activities are free, some have limited spaces, so punters still need to make sure they sign up for their favourite event.
There are still a couple of places left on sailings for the highly popular Trad Cruise - a tall ship which takes festivalgoers along the Newry Canal to the sound of Irish music.
Tickets have been selling well for the first Iúr Cinn Fleadh gig by folk legends Altan - so people need to book their seats as soon as they can for the 25 August concert.
Joining Altan at Newry Town Hall is esteemed local musician Piaras Ó Lorcáin. This will be a magical night, hosted by Narrow Water Events in conjunction with Iúr Cinn Fleadh.
Another first Fleadh appearance is Belfast singer-songwriter Anthony Toner – who presents his superbly crafted tunes in an acoustic show at St John Bosco Social Club on 23 August.
Local legend Lianne McCooey will introduce you to some of the best Irish comics at an evening of laughter with Panic Station Comedy at Newry Market on 24 August.
Countless cyclists will reclaim the roads at Bikes And Beats On The Streets on 25 August at 2pm from the entrance to the Carlingford Lough Greenway at Albert Basin. Irish rapper and DJ Cú Chulainn will set the beat and lead the chants through Newry.
The Downeys join forces with ‘the girl with the harp’ Niamh Noade for an afternoon of music at Newry Methodist Church on 25 August at 4pm. Andy Rogers and Fra Sands will present an evening of ‘Ethno-Celt’ sounds at St Mary’s Church on 26 August at 8pm.
Other attractions include – Poetry And Pancakes at Newry Library, tenx9 storytelling at St John Bosco Social Club, Yew Tree Ukes on the Brian Boru, Newry City Runners 5k at WIN Business Park, and for children – an African drum workshop at Newry Baptist Centre and Barnacle Bill’s Crafty Adventure at The Quays. Food Tour, Ghost Walk and Carlingford flotilla all add up to a summer spectacular!
Iúr Cinn Fleadh is kindly supported by Newry BID, the National Lottery Community Fund, Community Foundation NI and Narrow Water Promotions. The fleadh are also grateful to all the local businesses who are involved and support the festival with special thanks to Buttercrane Shopping Centre, Nan Rices, The Railway Bar and the Canal Court Hotel.
Pick up your copy of the official Event Guide at outlets throughout the district. Find out more at www.iurcinnfleadh.com
