Great programme of events again this year
IRELAND’S oldest festival, the Wicklow Regatta, is now in its 140th year and returns with all the old favourites such as Wicklow’s Got Talent, golly fishing, pet show, fancy dress, raft race, historical walks and much, much more
The Singing Pubs competition is already underway having started on Saturday in the Brass Fox, followed by Sunday in Whistlers. The competition continues at the Bridge Tavern on Wednesday, July 25; Doyle’s on Saturday, July 28; The Woodpecker on Sunday, July 29; Wicklow Golf Club on Tuesday, July 31; Ta Se’s on Wednesday, August 1 and Fitzpatrick’s on Thursday, August 2.
The Regatta Queen Ball takes place in the Grand Hotel on Friday, July 27, with RTE news presenter Eileen Whelan the MC for the night. A night of glamour, glitz and fun is guaranteed. The judges will be Sharon Hennessy, co-owner of the Ms Ireland franchise and Kristina Leddy, one of Ireland’s top models. As well as crowning this year’s Regatta Queen, this year’s Ball will also see the introduction of a ‘Strictly Regatta’ dace competition in aid of Tiglin. The couple who receive the most votes will be the winners and each vote will represent a donation to Tiglin.
The Secret Garden Music Festival takes place in the Abbey Grounds in conjunction with Wicklow Regatta on Sunday, August 5, and features a winning combination of music, art, workshops and food.
A spectacular fireworks display will illumi- nate the night sky above the Black Castle and the festival will draw to a close on the August bank-holiday Monday with the annual Wicklow Rowing Club Regatta which will feature ten different clubs.
Other events not to be missed are 10 Pin Bowling, relay races, Kids’ treasure hunt, Wicklow’s got Talent, an historic walk by John Finlay, a ‘Walking Through Ulysses’ performance, a Yoga and Mindfulness afternoon, sound therapy by Harry Parkinson, golly fishing, The Maguires traditional open air music performance, a family day, comedy night, open tennis tournament, a fun run, gymnastics and swimming race.