Damp fails to deter crowds from the Ballyheigue Pattern
“I COULD travel the county and country and not find what we have in Ballyheigue on that weekend” – the words of local Tom Lawlor perhaps best describe the unbroken tradition that is the famous Pattern Day celebration in the town.
2018 saw the annual festival gather all members of the community with friends from far and wide for an event that has blossomed into a massive celebration of both the town’s historic roots and the community that still holds them dear.
“I couldn’t even exaggerate it – the amount of people that gather each year just gets bigger and bigger,” Tom Lawlor, PRO of the Thresher Committee said.
“We have the wonderful Mass at Our Lady’s Well each year to celebrate Our Lady’s birthday and then continue the devotion at the Grotto, but it has come so far from just being that. It is just unbelievable what it has evolved into.”
Tom explained that a few years ago, the committee involved saw the need to build on the tradition of the Pattern Day on September 8, and that’s exactly what they did.
“It has been made into the festival that we know it by a committee that are community-focused and in tune with its members. That’s why it became the Thresher revival.
“The street stalls are what really make it. You see the children buying toys, and everyone enjoying each other’s company and celebrating people’s produce and it has become a great family event. That’s really important to us.”
The night before the Thresher saw those who left the town in the 50’s presented with special medallions.
“It is so important to remember where this festival comes from and the people who made it. In the 1940s, there was little happening in the town. Rory O’Connor used to come and hold dances for the locals, that was the big event.”
“Out of 34 of the surviving members of those who left, 30 came to be presented with their medallion and appreciated. It meant so much to them, and those who accepted the appreciation on their behalf – family members, friends or neighbours. It was very special.”
The celebrations continued on Sunday with the crowds enjoying traditional food from the 40s and 50s.
“We have wonderful sponsors who made this festival possible again. On behalf of the committee, a massive thank you to everyone who helped with the festival in any way.”
“It’s always amazing to me how many people are so willing to take part and participate as well as attending.”
“It’s an event that’s alive and well and continues to grow, but never losing its tradition,” Tom added.