Dancing at the crossroads at Laharn Cross
COMELY MAIDENS and eligible bachelors from North Cork will be hoping to 'strike it lucky' over the summer with the return of the popular open air ‘oldtime' dancing series to Laharn Cross.
An important and historic old Irish tradition, open air dancing was once a major attraction for rural communities. In recent years it has been resurrected in the Mallow area thanks to the community in Lombardstown and their regular Sunday night dances at Laharn Cross.
Situated at the foot of the Baelic Mountains, the large timber stage at the Cross has hosted many live bands including Peter Lane & Blackwater Sound, The Lee Sound, Liam O'Sullivan and Southern Pride.
Waltzes, quicksteps, foxtrots, not to mention polkas, shoe the donkey and the Siege of Ennis, are the order of the evening for the hundreds of enthusiastic dancers who gather for two hours of summer Sunday fun each week.
The summer 2014 programme will kick off next Sunday with music by Lee Sound, with The Mario Sound, Dermot & Irene Ring, Liam O'Sullivan and Southern Pride also set to play the Cross during the month of June.
The chair of Laharn Community Action, John Paul O'Shea, said Laharn had become a household name for dancers across Munster.
“The tradition of dancing at the crossroads is alive and well here at Laharn Cross and it is marvellous to see both young and old taking part.
“We are celebrating 17 years in existence this year and are looking forward to a great summer of entertainment,” said Mr O'Shea.
“Everyone is invited; the fun is free, though we do ask people to contribute a few euros in the donation boxes which go towards the cost of the live bands,” he added.