Delight as Drogheda secure the AllIreland Fleadh for a second year
IN a matter of weeks, Drogheda will announce a full programme featuring some of the top Irish and International artists set to perform at this year’s Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. The news comes as Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann awarded Drogheda the honour of hosting the Fleadh in 2019 for the second consecutive year.
Chairperson of the Fleadh Executive Committee Lolo Robinson said, ” Today’s decision is an endorsement of our hard work to date and a vote of confidence in the people of Drogheda and County Louth, who are committed to delivering a world-class event and a memorable visitor experience this summer.
“Securing Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann for a second consecutive year will afford us the opportunity to continue to build on what will be a hugely successful event this summer and establish Drogheda as a must-visit destination along Ireland’s Ancient East.”
Attracting more than 400,000 attendees, Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is the world’s largest celebration of Irish music, language, song and dance.
Welcoming the news, the Chief Executive of Louth County Council Joan Martin said, ” We are absolutely delighted that Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann will return to Drogheda in 2019. County Louth already has a long established and extensive arts, heritage and cultural programme and the Fleadh will further cement this, whilst enhancing our flourishing ‘Creative Ireland Programme’.
“Today’s announcement will have significant economic benefits for Drogheda and County Louth as a whole. This year’s event will shine a spotlight on County Louth and the surrounding region, which will afford us a unique opportunity to capitalise on a national and international audience. It has been estimated that up to €40m will flow into County Louth as a result of the festival, with the long-term benefits to include increased awareness of Drogheda and County Louth as a tourist destination and forging strong community ties.”
This August marks the first time in many years that the Fleadh will be held on the east coast and Drogheda is perfectly positioned to capitalise on the population numbers in both Dublin and Belfast. The town’s strategic location just off the M1 and its first class public transport links makes it the perfect location for visitors to travel to with ease.
For further information on this year’s Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann visit www. fleadhcheoil.ie .