22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Meath Macra prepares for its 38th Blue Jean Festival in Athboy
The three-day event in Meath will run from Friday, May 30 to June 1, featuring live music, family entertainment, and the coronation of the 2025 Blue Jean Country Queen.
The festival is set to welcome over 21 young women from across Ireland and abroad to compete for the title of Blue Jean Country Queen – a competition that celebrates community involvement, and rural heritage.
Reflecting on her year as Queen, 2024 titleholder Alannah Finnegan said: 'It's hard to express in just a few words what it has meant to me being crowned the 2024 Blue Jean Country Queen. The Blue Jean Country Queen has truly given me friends and memories for life that I'm so exceptionally grateful for. I've had a fantastic year of holding the title, and I've really enjoyed all the opportunities that have come from it.
Ms Finnegan advised the 2025 Queens to 'Let your personality shine bright, embrace all the wonderful moments, and make some unforgettable memories and friendships.'
Organised by Meath Macra na Feirme, the event is now in its 38th year and is volunteer-led, with strong backing from local businesses, clubs, and civic groups.
Macra na Feirme is a voluntary rural youth organisation for 17-35-year-olds. It's key activities include agriculture, sport, travel, public speaking, performing arts and community involvement.
Festival Chair Paul Gill said: 'The people of Athboy really love this festival, and we are delighted to work closely with the Athboy Community Committee, whose passion and expertise set it apart.'
Councillor David Gilroy praised the festival as 'an integral part of summer' for showcasing rural youth empowerment.
'Macra has provided a platform and an outlet for young people for generations and the Blue Jean Festival is just one manifestation of that.'
Local musicians Rhythm and Sticks, The Fógues, and festival favourite Simon Casey will be among the weekend's headliners.
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What to Expect
Friday, May 30: Opening Ceremony at The Darnley Lodge Hotel followed by a pub crawl through Athboy's main streets.
Saturday, May 31: A packed day including a Family Fun Day and BBQ, karaoke at Flood's Bar, and contestant interviews in St. James' Hall which is open to the public.
Sunday, June 1: The 'Lark in the Park' takes over Fair Green with music, a pet farm, toy tractor run, and children's games. The Gala Banquet and crowning ceremony will wrap up the weekend
