Blue Jean Country Queens to sparkle over bank holiday

Simon Casey and The Fógues will headline the 2025 Blue Jean Country Queen Festival in Athboy from May 30 to June 2.

Organised by Meath Macra na Feirme in collaboration with the local community, the festival features music, family entertainment, and the coronation of the 2025 Blue Jean Country Queen.

Twenty-one contestants will compete for a €1,000 prize sponsored by Le Chéile Credit Union, a trophy, and a golden sash.

The festival will launch officially on May 30 at the Darnley Lodge Hotel, followed by a sponsored pub crawl. On Saturday May 31, there will be a BBQ and Fun Day from 2pm and karaoke from 3pm at Floods Bar.

That evening, there will be entertainment by iRadio’s Conor Woods in St James’s Hall, which will be followed by a performance by The Fógues and a DJ set from Conor Woods in The Darnley Lodge Hotel.

On Sunday June 1, there will be a competition featuring the Queens in a heroes vs villains fancy dress football match at 12.30pm. There will be a family fun day following this, at Fair Green with live music, children’s activities and a mini tractor run.

That evening’s gala banquet, sponsored by Houlihan Engineering, at Athboy Convent Community Centre, precedes the midnight crowning of the 2025 Queen at the Darnley Lodge Hotel, after which the new queen will dance the night away to Simon Casey, followed by DJ Conor Woods.

Reflecting on her year as Queen, 2024 titleholder Alannah Finnegan said: “The Blue Jean Country Queen has truly given me friends and memories for life that I’m so exceptionally grateful for.

“I’ve had a fantastic year of holding the title, and I’ve really enjoyed all the opportunities that have come from it. This year encouraged me to welcome leadership positions, and I accepted the role of club Chairperson for 3Province Macra.”

Advising this year’s participants, Alannah said: “Let your personality shine bright, embrace all the wonderful moments, and make some unforgettable memories and friendships.”

Festival Chair Paul Gill stated: “The people of Athboy really love this festival, and we are delighted to work closely with the Athboy Community Committee, whose passion and expertise set it apart. We are grateful for a 10-year-long relationship with main sponsor Le Chéile Credit Union and welcome Turmec and Farrelly Tree Services as returning sponsors. Finally, we thank David and Hazel Sheridan of The Darnley Lodge Hotel for the use of the hotel, Athboy.”