23-05-2025
Range of events for 'The Leitrim Gathering' to take place
An extensive programme of cultural, heritage, literary, food, recreational, music and dance events will take place in communities across Leitrim this weekend as part of 'The Leitrim Gathering'.
The initiative which aims to celebrate place, connection, and heritage with Leitrim people at home and around the world was officially launched in Carrick-on Shannon last night.
Leitrim County Council CEO Joseph Gilhooly said the gathering has received significant support from community groups.
Mr Gilhooly said he was "encouraging Leitrim people everywhere to be part of the celebrations either by attending an event or sharing in the fun via social media".
The launch of the Leitrim Gathering heard that the local authority hopes to engage with its diaspora to act as ambassadors around the globe for their native county.
Chairperson of the Leitrim Gathering Steering Group Cllr Enda Stenson told the launch of the impact immigration had on his own family. He spoke of the diaspora's connection with the county.
Carole Coleman, a member of the steering group, spoke of the importance of remembering those who have left the county in the past for a myriad of reasons and how they supported many people who remained at home.
Leitrim County Council is undertaking a survey seeking to establish where the county's diaspora resides across the globe. The Leitrim Gathering coincides with the UK Bank Holiday weekend.
Over the coming days, the county will host a diverse range of activities and events including Sessions at the Shannon, Leitrim Cycling Festival, Mohill Old Fair Day, Taste Leitrim, Kayaking on Lough Rynn, Leitrim Jamboree, Leitrim Women Through Time Exhibition and Genealogy workshops.
Census 2022 showed that the population of Leitrim was about 35,000 people - an increase of 10% from April 2016.
