Exciting weekend of events at Celtic Fringe Festival
The Celtic Fringe Festival promises plenty of ceremony, culture and fun alongside the morning lectures of the Armada Conference this weekend, including an appearance by a Spanish navy vessel.
The OPV Arnomendi is currently docked in Killybegs (Sligo has no deep water port) and will carry out a naval salute off Streedagh on Sunday.
On Saturday morning there will be a guided 5 hour hike by High Hopes Hiking of Benbulben 9:30am – 2:30pm.
On Saturday afternoon, there will be a Bus Tour of the De Cúellar Route through the Dartry Mountains 2:30pm – 6:00pm, starting from the car park at Streedagh Beach, guided by GADA Chairperson Eddie O’Gorman.
Another free guided De Cúellar Trail - takes place on Satuday at 3:00pm – 5:30pm from Streedagh Beach to Staid Abbey, led by Streedagh locals Dr. Prannie Rhatigan, Councillor Marie Casserly and Declan Bruen.
On Saturday evening there will be a Gala Reception, Dinner & Entertainment at the Clayton Hotel with musical interludes by renowned Sligo musicians Michael Rooney and June McCormack
On Sunday there will be a barbecue and entertainment at the pop-up Spanish Quarter Main Street, Grange from 12:00pm – 6:00pm with stalls and market.
Free events the De Cuéllar Drama,Salsa Dance Tuition, Traditional Musical Instruments Workshop with Kerrie Herrity and Acoustic Music by local artists.
The main beach event commemorating the Armada takes place at the Armada Monument at Streedagh Beach on Sunday at 1:30pm – 4:00pm
It will start with a visit to Streedagh Strand wreck site, preceded by a parade from the Armada monument, and including a wreath laying event, Crosses of the Fallen, a commemoration at Streedagh Strand, Stones & Sand, a children’s competition, Naval salute and ceremony at sea by Spanish Navy OPV Arnomendi. Schedule of Events: 13:30-14:30 Walk from Grange to Armada Monument
14:30-14:45 Ceremony & wreath laying at Armada monument
14:45-15:15 Parade & pageantry to shore
15:15-16:00Sand & Stones - children’s beach event
15:15-16:00 Sail by and salute by OPV Arnomendi
The day will conclude with some theatre at the Spanish Quarter at 2pm – 4pm by the Armada Players.