Latest news with #Lughnasadh
Irish Independent
03-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Lughnasadh is a time of illumination so use midsummer to take stock and give thanks
In Celtic mythology, this date is associated with the god Lugh, a figure of radiance, masterful craftsmanship and generous harvests. It's always fascinating to note the cross-cultural echoes between ancient traditions. While the Celts were venerating Lugh, the Greeks were entering Leo season, which is ruled by the sun and linked to the god Apollo – another symbol of brilliance, artistry and solar power. Both Lugh and Apollo are portrayed as luminous, golden-haired masculine figures, embodiments of solar vitality. They were both known to have skin that radiated light itself. In mythology, everything is symbolic rather than literal. Assigning solar traits to a masculine archetype reflects the active, outward-moving yang energy, just as the moon is often connected to feminine, inward yin energy. In the Northern Hemisphere, this time of year was recognised by ancient cultures as a season of plenty – meant to be celebrated and enjoyed. It's a time to bask in the warmth of the sun, offer gratitude for life's pleasures and recognise the gifts of the season. Considering both Lugh and Apollo's love for music and the arts, this is also a time for artists to showcase their work at festivals and markets. With the symbolism of Lugh and Apollo in mind, we may feel illuminated by this solar light. This can be a time to relish in joy, creativity and connection. It's also a beautiful moment to reflect on how we shine on a personal level, through our talents, offerings and presence in the world. This year's Lughnasadh is accompanied by Mercury Retrograde, which isn't always the case. Mercury Retrograde tends to bring the tempo down and encourage a quieter tone. So while we can still tap into the bliss and bounty of this time, the energy may lean more toward inner reflection and gentle gratitude. Celebrations are certainly welcome, but you might feel drawn to approach social gatherings with a bit more grounded awareness. During Mercury Retrograde, we can sometimes feel more sensitive or reactive, so bringing mindfulness into the moment can help us stay connected and centred. May this Lughnasadh offer you a moment to pause, reflect and recognise how far you've come – and all that is still unfolding.
Irish Independent
01-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
August bank holiday in Monaghan: Five fun-filled attractions to do as Farney County gears up for weekend of entertainment
In keeping with previous years, a comprehensive line up of events and attractions have been pencilled in by community groups and local dotted across its inviting landscape over the course of the next number of days. Here are a flavour of just some of the many eye-catching delights and activities that are in store over the coming days. Follow Independent Monaghan on Facebook Plein Air Workshops in Rossmore Forest Park In what is arguably one of Monaghan's most treasured locations, Rossmore Forest Park will provide the backdrop to an outdoor spectacle for art enthusiasts that has to be seen to be believed. Armagh native and Monaghan resident Lynsey McKernan will lead a three hour workshop on Friday (August 1) entitled 'Lughnasadh'. The session will guide enthusiasts through the unique experience of painting outdoors – immersed in nature and responding to the lights, atmosphere, and shifting elements. Those taking part will be afforded the chance to create a piece that captures not just what you see, but how the moment feels. All materials are provided, and the workshop is free. No experience needed with beginners and all levels welcome. Castleblayney Show The Castleblayney Show on Bank Holiday Monday (August 4) attracts a large crowd from the local, national and even international areas. Agriculture is the show's main focus but this has broadened over the past number of years to include Side Shows, Trade Stands, The All Ireland Baking Championship, an Artisan Food Hall showcasing local produce at its very best, and much, much more. Children's Entertainment is free and includes Face Painting, Hair braiding, science fun and plenty more on the day. The success of Castleblayney Show has ensured its position as one of Monaghan's Major attractions and the program of events incorporates many elements including Cultural, Commercial and Competitive Interests ranging from Cattle, Sheep, Goats, Horses, Poultry, Home Industries, Horticulture, Needlework, Crafts, Photography, Art, Post primary and primary schools. The Show provides hours of opportunity for you to see the latest inventions, product services available in the county and surrounding areas and sample food and refreshments from a wide range of suppliers. Carrickmacross Walking Tour The Walking Tour of Carrickmacross aims to bring alive the vibrant history of the south Monaghan town, including the Famine Times, the two families who owned the town for many years while also charting its time through the War of Independence. Carrickmacross can call upon many famous residents, including Daniel McGovern and Patrick Kavanagh with plaques dedicated to their work being seen as part of the tour. Other cultural items of interest are Carrickmacross Lace and the Harry Clarke stained glass windows in local Churches. The tour takes approximately one hour with participants being asked to wear comfortable walking shoes. Due to the inclement Irish weather, organisers have also advised members of the public to bring an umbrella and a rain jacket. There is no charge to take part in the tour and no booking is required, however numbers will be restricted due to health and safety reasons. On that basis, a designated meeting point to the front of the Shirley Arms Hotel at 11am has been pencilled in. If you have a large group and would like to organise a private tour, please contact the Chamber of Commerce Secretary at the email info@ (Please note: There will be a fee for private tours.) Pay a visit to Castleblayney Outdoor Activity Centre Castleblayney Outdoor Adventure Centre is located in the beautiful surroundings of Muckno Lake and wooded parklands. The Centre is ideally located to suit the many water sports and outdoor activities programmes on offer. A facility that has become a haven for children in the throes of their summer holidays, a wide variety of camps offering everything from kayaking, climbing and shelter building have become a firm and keenly awaited fixture on the local landscape. Sample the delights of Gr8 Entertainment There are few, if any, better ways to keep the kids occupied over the bank holiday than to pay a visit to Castleblayney's GR8 Entertainment. Established in 2010 to provide a new way of entertainment for people in the North East, this thrill-seeking entertainment complex, caters for all ages from one-year-old upwards. What's more, GR8 Entertainment have been catering for School Tours for over 15 years, taking in nearly 100,000 children through its doors since first opening. Put simply, GR8 Entertainment boasts the best 10 Pin bowling xxperience in the North East. Its 10,000 sq ft soft-play area is equipped with a three tier climbing frame, slides, ball polls and toddler play area. Factor in golf simulators, gaming areas, arcades and much, much more, you could do a lot worse than to mark your bank holiday card for a visit to Monaghan's premier entertainment complex.
The Herald Scotland
25-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Kathryn Joseph on why she finds it 'weird to be headlining'
Artistically, at least. The City of Discovery has had more than its fair share of negative press recently, between the impact of its university's financial distress, and some sobering stats around the levels of deprivation endured by some of its residents. It's in stark contrast to the cultural flourish the place has enjoyed. This month, it welcomes back one of its favourite sons, with Brian Cox stepping out on stage in the National Theatre of Scotland's satire Make It Happen, about the 2008 financial collapse and Fred Goodwin's role in it. Meanwhile, across the river at Newport-on-Tay, a new boutique festival is enjoying its second year. Lughnasadh Festival is hosted by Forgan Arts Centre, staged in its grounds, one of four such events connected to the clicking-through of the seasons. Lughnasadh marks the beginning of the harvest period, and the female-led crop yielded this year is very healthy, with Sacred Paws, Free Love, Lacuna and Becky Sikasa, among the other names on the day-long bill. Joseph is the headline act, but in typically self-deprecating style, wonders why. 'They've booked everyone I love to play with,' she says, laughing. 'So they have very good taste. I've been looking forward to seeing everyone else on the bill. I find it weird to be headlining, I don't feel like I deserve to be doing that, but I'm very excited to. 'Everyone else is better than me, the noises that they make and the humans that they are. I still can't believe I get to do this job.' Joseph's modesty is in contrast with her calibre. A Scottish Album of the Year Award winner in 2015, she's since gone on to enjoy enduring high regard as one of the country's leading indie acts. Her fifth LP We Were Made Prey was released at the end of May, winning plaudits and an ongoing European tour slot with Mogwai, whose Rock Action Records label she's on. It is, she says, somewhat proudly, disgusting. She says: 'This record has a lot of blood and references to things that I think other people find disgusting but that I think are lovely. So disgusting is a word I use a lot to describe myself. I always find it funny that I put people in a situation where I am talking about things that make them feel uncomfortable. 'My 14 year old daughter is now aware of the words and she's also horrified and thinks I'm writing porn, basically. I'm getting a row from my own kid now, so I'm feeling bad about that." The album fuses her distinctive vocals – distinctive in raw content, as much as in unique tortured style – with the atmospheric washes of electro-composer Lomond Campbell's sonic footering. Since working together on an album of remixes last year, the pair have become a twin presence on stage. And he's got her standing up. Joseph says: 'I feel easier about it now because I'm playing with Lomond, and I'm able to enjoy it more rather than thinking about what I'm doing. 'Standing at a keyboard when I'm performing feels like a completely different experience. It definitely feels easier to sing.' The album was recorded in Black Bay Studio on the Isle of Lewis, and is, Joseph says, the album she's most proud of. 'I'm addicted to listening to it, just because of how it sounds,' she says. 'Listening to your own stuff is really strange but it's because of the noises Lomond has made on the record, every noise he made was perfect.' Lyrically, it's a challenging listen. 'The songs are really dark,' she says. 'But we had a hysterical laugh most of time we were making it.' Lugnasadh marks a return to the coast where she found shelter at the height of the pandemic, having switched Glasgow for Broughty Ferry as covid made tenement living in the country's biggest city a challenge. 'That was my experience of lockdown,' she says. 'I was worried we'd never get to live anywhere again, so I went to live by the sea. It was very easy, it felt like where I was supposed to be at the time. I absolutely loved it. I love that bit of coastline and everyone I know who lives there, so I'm really excited to play a festival there.' Afterwards, like the aforementioned Cox, she's on the bill at the Edinburgh International Festival, before heading back on the road with the supersonic sounds of Mogwai, to rattle eardrums across the Baltic countries. And she's learned tour bus etiquette from her earlier sojourn with Stuart Braithwaite and his band. 'I knew you're not allowed to do a poo on a tour bus, but you can't even put toilet roll down there either,' she said, semi-incredulous. 'I actually ended up getting really attached to sleeping in my little bunk. But one night as I was climbing into bed I accidentally pressed something on my phone and Don't You Forget About Me by Simple Minds started blaring out. It was my first time on a tour bus. I learned a few things.' Mogwai would have a cheek to complain about the noise. 'The boys are great,' she says. 'People who like Mogwai are great human beings and I'm reaping the benefit of that. I feel really happy and comfortable, and I want to enjoy it while it lasts.' Lugnasadh Arts Festival, 2 Aug, Edinburgh International Festival, Up Late at the Hub, 9 August. We Were Made Prey is available from Rock Action Records,
The Herald Scotland
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Head along to the Lughnasadh Music and Art Festival
Head to Forgan Arts Centre for an afternoon and evening of live music and family friendly art activities in the centre's lush grounds. Following the success of last year's festival, Lughnasadh returns with an even bigger line-up featuring Scottish Album of the Year Award winners Kathryn Joseph and Sacred Paws; Mercury Prize nominee BBC Introducing Scottish Act of the Year Becky Sikasa and many others. Kathryn Joseph (Image: Kathryn Joseph) The Garden 1-30 August. Entry free. Stills, 23 Cockburn Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1BP. Artist Sian Davey and her son Luke spent three years transforming her garden into an immersive wildflower haven during which time their garden wall became a community space for shared stories. Inviting others in, they managed to capture moments of reflection, love and connection which lead to the birth of The Garden - a place for heartbreak, joy and everything in between. Coburg House Summer Open Studios 1-3 August. Entry free. Coburg House Art Studios, 15 Coburg Street, Edinburgh, EH6 6ET. This summer Coburg House [[Art]] Studios marks a major milestone - 20 years since it opened its doors to the public for its renowned biannual Open Studios events. Coburg House is home to over 70 artists, designers and makers and across its four floors of working studios, visitors can discover a thriving hub of creativity that has become one of Scotland's leading artist collectives. Andy Goldsworthy - Fifty Years 26 July-2 November. Entry free. Scottish National Gallery, The Mound, Edinburgh, EH2 2EL. Taking over the upper and lower galleries in the Royal Scottish Academy building for the summer is Andy Goldsworthy's Fifty Years exhibition. There's over 200 works such as photographs, sculptures and expansive installations as well as several major new works that have been created onsite specifically for this exhibition. Into the Wild 26-27 July. Entry free. Leith Makers, 105 Leith Walk, Edinburgh, EH6 8NP. Featuring work from three Edinburgh-based artists, this exhibition explores the natural, mystical and dark aspects of the world around us. Dani's work explores the relationships animals have with their natural environment while Dee's work imagines creatures tasked with curating natural spaces and keeping their inhabitants happy and healthy. Jim on the other hand is influenced by the darker, more feral parts of nature. Switch Track 26 July-9 August. Entry free. Reid Gallery, Glasgow School of Art, 164 Renfrew Street, G3 6RQ. Victoria Morton – Switch Track (Image: Victoria Morton) The period between 1995 to 2025 represents 30 years of painting since artist Victoria Morton graduated from The Glasgow School of Art, with this exhibition featuring a selection of works from that spell. It carefully draws upon sketchbook materials, paintings and mixed media works from different points in time. There's painting, sculptural assemblages, photography and sound work which covers the variety of Morton's practice. Shifting Surfaces 28 July-11 October. Entry free. Dovecot Studios, 10 Infirmary Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1LT. Immerse yourself in the inspirations and collaborations between Victoria Crowe and Dovecot Studios and mark a major milestone in the career of one of Scotland's most distinguished contemporary artists. Journey through a rich relationship of texture and textiles while overlooking Dovecot's studio where these masterpieces were created. Millais In Perthshire 26 July-30 April 2027. Entry free. Perth Art Gallery, 78 George Street, Perth, PH1 5LB. New for 2025, this exhibition is a private collection of rarely seen artworks and personal belongings of prominent Victorian artist John Everett Millais and his Perth-born wife Euphemia 'Effie' Chalmers Gray. As part of a long-term loan from the artist's great grandson, this display explores the profound connections between Millais and Perthshire, a landscape that inspired several of his most celebrated works. We are the Witches, We are, Hear 1-30 August. Entry free. The House of Smalls, 103 Henderson Row, Stockbridge, EH3 5BB. Discover textile artwork from 70 female artists who aim to use their craft to challenge, disturb and disrupt. Running throughout the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the exhibition explores the concept of the witch as female divinity, female ferocity and female transgression. Eden 26 July-11 August. Entry free. The Briggait, 141 Bridgegate, Glasgow, G1 5HZ. Rooted in the language of nature, Michelle Campbell's work uses the natural world as a source and platform to navigate and express her own experience of the world. The exhibition charts the meeting points between mind and matter, feeling and form, chaos and clarity and invites viewers to enter not only into the natural imagery but into a way of seeing, and sensing that is fluid, raw and vivid.
The National
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Female artists to headline ‘eclectic' festival offering
The second year of the event at Newport-on-Tay follows gigs from James Yorkston, Hamish Hawk and Pictish Trail, thanks to the efforts of local music collective Big Rock Records, a group of music aficionados celebrating Scottish independent music talent. The line up for this year's Lughnasadh is headlined by Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) award-winner Kathryn Joseph (below), along with fellow SAY award-winners Sacred Paws, Mercury Prize nominee and Heavy Music award finalists Dead Pony. Also appearing are Becky Sikasa, who was BBC Introducing Scottish Act of the Year 2025, Connor Liam Byrne and the Bad Kissers, with art activities curated by artist Ruby Pester. The family-friendly festival will take place in August in the gardens and grounds of Forgan Arts Centre which was bought by Community Asset Transfer in 2022. It is one of four festivals Forgan Arts Centre hosts annually to celebrate nature and the turning of the Celtic wheel. Alongside the line-up of some of Scotland's best musicians, there will be food and drinks from top Scottish independent producers. Kathryn Joseph said she couldn't wait to be back in a part of the country that she loves very much. READ MORE: Pro-Palestine activists protest against Israel at Eurovision opening ceremony 'I'm very happy and excited to be part of Lughnasadh Music and Arts festival in Newport-on-Tay and very happy to get to play our new record live with Lomond Campbell,' she said. Big Rock Records member Chris Mugan added: 'With so many fond memories from last year's joyous event, we're thrilled our Forgan pals have invited us back for more. We've worked hard to pull together a line-up that's even stronger, more eclectic and diverse. There's something for everyone and everyone's welcome.' Last year's inaugural Lughnasadh Festival was programmed in response to a request for more live music events at Forgan Arts Centre. The positive reception to the 2024 festival enabled the organisation expand the festival to welcome audiences from across Scotland to see some of the best homegrown new music around in a beautiful setting. Interim director at Forgan Arts Centre Teri Laing said: 'Lughnasadh is becoming a much-loved community event, and the centre, grounds and woodland are the ideal backdrop for soaking up some sounds and celebrating the end of summer.' Lughnasadh Festival, which will take place on August 2, is supported by North East Fife Area Committee. Forgan Arts Centre is supported by Northwood Charitable Trust, the North East Fife Area Committee and Fife Council.
