Over 1,000 Competitors Set to Take Part in Celebrations of Music, Song and Dance

The official launch of the Connacht Fleadh 2025 took place on Thursday evening, 19th June, in Gullanes Hotel, Ballinasloe, marking the beginning of a vibrant week celebrating Irish traditional culture. Local councillors, musicians, community groups, and Comhaltas members gathered in high spirits for what promises to be a memorable festival.
Attracta Brady, President of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, commended the Ballinasloe community for embracing the event with energy and heart:
“The people of Ballinasloe have created a complete circle of support. You’ve stepped up with leadership, energy and a positive attitude – a true reflection of what Comhaltas is all about.”
Michael Cusack, Chairperson of Connacht Comhaltas, highlighted the extensive community engagement:
“From GAA clubs and choirs to schools and cultural communities, the people of Ballinasloe have embraced the Fleadh and made it their own.”
Over the course of eight days, more than 40 events will take place throughout the town, creating a Community Fleadh for All alongside the official competitions.
Highlights of the Community Fleadh include:
• Céilí Mór on Saturday night, 5th July, with the Pipers Cross Céilí Band (previous All-Ireland Champions) at 9pm in the Shearwater Hotel
• A Step Dancing Workshop with acclaimed dancer Noel Devery
• Traditional Singing Sessions, music performances, and late-night sessions across the town
• Family-friendly activities such as a Vintage Car Display, historical walks, and kayaking on the River Suck
• A busking competition, best window Display, GAA and soccer matches, camogie, tennis tasters, and much more
The Connacht Fleadh competitions will take place over three days — Friday 4th, Saturday 5th, and Sunday 6th July — with over 1,000 competitors from across the province hoping to qualify for the All-Ireland Fleadh in Wexford later this summer.
Comhaltas organisers extended their deepest thanks to the many supporters of this year’s Fleadh:
• Ard Scoil Mhuire, for generously hosting the competitions
• Galway County Council, for their ongoing support
• Ballinasloe Credit Union, the main sponsor of the Fleadh
• Galway Rural Development, for their generous sponsorship and support
• The many local businesses and organisations for their contributions
• The local Comhaltas branches and Connacht Comhaltas Board, for their dedicated efforts
• And a very special thank you to the musicians and performers who brought such heart and energy to the Fleadh launch evening
The Fleadh is organised entirely by volunteers under the guidance of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, reflecting a true spirit of community, culture, and collaboration.
Volunteers Still Needed!
Help is still needed to support the Community Fleadh events throughout the week and especially at the weekend. Anyone willing to lend a hand is warmly encouraged to email info@connachtcomhaltas.ie.
A full schedule of events can be viewed at www.connachtfleadh.ie. With a packed and inclusive programme, Ballinasloe is ready to welcome visitors from across Ireland to the Connacht Fleadh 2025 — a celebration of music, heritage, and community.