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Irish Independent
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Wexford's Fringe Fleadh initiative tuning up for opening sessions in New Ross
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
Irish Independent
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Fringe Fleadh launched in Weford with a line-up designed to celebrate the richness of Irish identity
This event marked the beginning of a season of Irish music, culture, and community celebration, with Gorey Community School once again playing host to the County Fleadh, taking place from May 16 to 18, for the second consecutive year. At the launch, Leas Cathaoirleach of Gorey Municipal District Cllr Donal Kenny, welcomed all attendees and praised the talent, energy, and dedication of all involved. He spoke of the excitement felt throughout Gorey to once again be home to this important cultural event. Speaking on the 2025 Fringe Fleadh line-up, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Pip Breen, described the festival as an immersive cultural experience designed to celebrate the richness of Irish identity. 'These events don't just entertain – they connect us,' he said. 'They weave a thread between communities, between generations, and between the past and the present. That's what makes the Fringe Fleadh so special here in Wexford. They remind us of who we are and the values we hold dear; creativity, community, heritage, tradition, and heart.' This year's Fleadh Cheoil Loch Garman was organised once again by CCÉ Gorey/Ballygarrett. Chairperson Paula Carroll thanked her hardworking team for their tireless commitment over two consecutive years. She also thanked the members and staff of the Gorey-Kilmuckridge District for their continued support, highlighting the lasting friendships and community spirit fostered through the event. Paula also welcomed Irish international rugby player Aoife Wafer, who spoke about how her early involvement in Irish music remains a part of her life to this day and continues to help her connect with people across the world. Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, Eddie Taaffe, officially launched the Fringe Fleadh programme, which will see cultural events taking place across Wexford throughout the summer in the lead-up to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in August. Mr Taaffe paid tribute to the members of Wexford County Council, the members of the Fleadh Cheoil Executive Committee (FEC) and to the many dedicated volunteers who have played a pivotal role in the success of both this and last year's Fleadh. Chairperson of Comhaltas Loch Garman, Sharon Ní Chuilinn, also addressed the crowd in attendance, praising the commitment and collaboration of volunteers and organisers across the county. Reflecting on last year's success, she shared her enthusiasm for the Fringe Fleadh 2025 programme, which will bring the spirit of Irish music, dance, art, and storytelling to communities across Wexford this summer. Sharon thanked Gorey Community School for supporting Comhaltas with such a fantastic venue which enables us cater for almost 1,000 competitors and their families over the weekend. The event concluded with the Chairperson officially launching Fleadh Cheoil Loch Garman. The evening concluded with a concert by internationally acclaimed traditional Irish band Goitse, warmly welcomed by the local Comhaltas branch CCE Gorey/Ballygarrett. Their performance marked a fitting celebration of the official launch and set the tone for what promises to be an exciting season of culture and community. Full details of the Fringe Fleadh programme are available via QR codes on-site or by visiting
