Wexford's Fringe Fleadh initiative tuning up for opening sessions in New Ross

Irish Independent

3 days ago

The Fringe Fleadh, which is an initiative by Wexford County Council, is promised to be a vibrant series across the county, with the New Ross town centre set to come alive to the sound of traditional Irish music from the much-loved Danecastle.
On Saturday, June 7 at 2.30 pm, the live performance in Brennan's Lane, will create a spirited afternoon of music and community celebration. The special outdoor session is the ideal set up which was much anticipated by the District Manager, Alan Fitzhenry, and Deputy Chief Executive of Wexford County Council and Director of Services, Eamonn Hore, as they seen the Brennan's Lane project recently come to fruition. The laneway now boasts a beautiful open space, with a smaller area enclosed with a roof, a mural, benches and greenery which is the newest area in town to host street sessions of live music, trad sessions, and community events, while arts and crafts markets are also in the works.
'Here the New Ross Municipal District, along with the councillors and the staff, we're really excited to see the crowds gather for the Fringe Fleadh in Brennan's Lane," said Mr Fitzhenry, adding that the carefully chosen location 'is a beautiful new public realm space and this event will really showcase the potential of the laneway and all its great uses.'
Seeing the much needed clean-up project of Brennan's Lane fulfilled in time for local musicians to utilise the space throughout the summer goes in hand with the aim of the Fringe Fleadh, which is to showcase local talent and spaces on our doorstep and to embrace the arts in more than just a traditional setting. It was previously reported in the New Ross Standard on April 25, 1991, that 'Brennan's Lane needs a clean-up', however, other reports in the paper in relation to the area dated back to 1898, when a 'Total Abstinence Meeting in New Ross' was held by the Protestant Total Abstinence Society in the hall of the Hill School. The Hill School, which was originally built in 1799, to the rear of Brennan's Lane was known as St. Mary's Terrace, and said to be the birth place of Michael O'Hanrahan, who was a member of the Gaelic League and served in the 1916 Easter Rising.
The pride of both Mr Hore, and Mr Fitzhenry, in the restoration appears timeless, despite the laneway being reopened in April, as they both continue to observe the delight of locals who access the historic area, but in its newly brightened and colourful capacity. At the opening, Mr Hore said the project showcases Wexford County Council's 'dedication to enhancing our communities, fostering pride, and supporting local vitality.'
"The refurbishment of Brennan's Lane has transformed it into a safer, more accessible, and vibrant space for residents, businesses, and visitors alike,' he added.
With the schedule for the Fringe Fleadh quickly taking shape, Mr Fitzhenry said having seen the AIMS Choral Festival utilise the space last week, 'a very large crowd of over 300 people were in the laneway and there was still loads of space, but it was just fantastic to see everyone there enjoying the great weather and we hope that atmosphere continues for the Fringe Fleadh in June.'
Performances will continue to take place each Saturday in June, with Saturday, June 28 expected to filled with an entire day of live entertainment.
The Fringe Fleadh will also take place in other areas across the county, from Seisiún by the Sea in Morriscastle to performances by The Blackwater Céilí Band at St. Martin's Community Centre in Piercestown, and the Enniscorthy Irish Folk and Ballad Festival, the programme is packed with musical highlights. Supported by Comhaltas branches, community groups, and local performers, each event is a celebration of Irish identity, heritage, and community pride delivered in a warm, inclusive, and joyful atmosphere.
Wexford County Council invites locals and visitors alike to be part of this unique summer celebration. Whether you're discovering traditional music for the first time or returning to a beloved tradition, Fringe Fleadh 2025 promises unforgettable moments and the true spirit of the Fleadh.
For full event listings, times, and locations, visit VisitWexford.ie.