6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Electric atmosphere in Kerry town bringing music and arts to the fore
With a jam-packed agenda celebrating all things music and art along with a host of fun vents from sheaf throwing to terrier racing there was literally something for everyone.
Marking 28 years it is now one of the leading Kerry Bank Holiday festivals and it certainly didn't disappoint. While it centres around live bands on the stage each night there is plenty more on and off the streets to ensure that the town was buzzing for the three days.
'The atmosphere in Cahersiveen this weekend has been nothing short of electric,' said CMAF's Marketing and PR Manager Fran Griffin.
'We were blessed with (mostly!) fantastic weather, and the town was alive with reunions, laughter, and energy for all three days.'
'Some of our new additions went down an absolute treat, especially on the music front, including the expanded three day street busking competition, the daytime live stage music showcase of local talent, and DJs in pubs into the early hours.
"The music programme received an overwhelmingly positive response from festivalgoers with evening headliners like Clíona Hagan and Kíla drawing huge crowds, with some saying they travelled from outside the county for the festival.'
'A stand out moment for me personally is the new community art mural on the entrance to town, called Cathair Saidhbhín le Gaeilge agus Fáilte. It brought together people of all ages and artistic backgrounds in a truly collaborative spirit.
The Kerry Cowboy (Séaghan Ó Súilleabháin) led several Irish language events such as walks, nature crafting, kids yoga, and a pop up Gaeltacht to encourage the use of Irish, or cúpla focal, throughout the weekend
The return of the annual Guinness and Oysters tasting event, which followed with a procession up the town from the Killorglin Pipe Band, was another key event that went down a treat.
'Of course, none of it would be possible without our incredible team of volunteers who work quietly behind the scenes, and the generous sponsorship from local businesses of all sizes who continue to believe in what we do and help with vital funding. Cahersiveen Music and Arts Festival is truly an example of a community coming together - and here's to year 29 in August 2026,' said Fran.
