WE WANT MORE!
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2018 proves outstanding success for the region
THE 2018 Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann has just ended – but the population of Drogheda just can’t wait for 2019, with preparations already under way for next year. Last week’s eight-day spectacular proved an outstanding success with overall figures for the week likely to top the 500,000 mark. Reports put Saturday’s attendance at between 180,000 and 200,000 people. Council staff, who kept the streets immaculate for the week, volunteers, gardaí and other services have all been praised for their efforts. Mayor Frank Godfrey has praised everyone who made the event such a success for the town. ‘It was incredible for the town and the county,’ he stated.
THOSE behind organising the 2018 Fleadh Cheoil warned the public that it would be big - but it was still a shock to the system.
Last Saturday evening, in particular, was incredible with reports suggesting that between 180,000 and 200,000 people came to the town alone on the day.
But from the first day, last Sunday week, numbers were up on previous years and with the road infrastructure, thousands upon thousands descended in the days after that - amidst reports of Drogheda possibly getting the Fleadh for three years - but that might be a story for another day.
Highlights abounded for everyone - but maybe last Sunday evening summed it up.
As the crowds gathered to mark the final hours of the event, young children gathered at the gig rig on Bolton Square and danced their hearts out.
For many, it would be their first taste of Irish music, but that’s the legacy the organisers want left by all of this, a rebirth of Irish music, song and dance in the greater Drogheda area.
Come next year, some things will change, others will continue, discussions will take place and the plan for ‘Year 2’ completed.
But as the town settles back into some kind of normality this week, there is a great sense of pride back on the streets of the town.
A population embraced the spirit of the Fleadh and it was everything it promised to be.
The hard work was done and the rewards reaped.
Roll on 2019!