Athlone festivals “can get even bigger and better”

"Bigger and better" - that is the aim of the Féile na Sionainne and River Festival committees as they look towards the 2026 editions of their respective festivals.

Both festivals helped create a celebratory atmosphere in Athlone during the August bank holiday weekend, as their line-ups of family focused activities and events attracted large numbers into the town.

This week, Féile na Sionainne chairperson, Jim Mulkerrins and River Festival chairperson, Padraig Hegarty, hailed the "great success" of both events.

Knowing what to expect during the festival was pivotal to the success of Féile na Sionainne, its chairperson said.

"Hosting a launch night in advance of Féile na Sionainne certainly made more people aware of the events taking place during the bank holiday weekend," said Jim.

The array of traditional Irish music and dance resonated on the streets of Athlone.

Jim said all events were well-attended, in particular the busking competition which allowed the next generation of musicians to showcase their talents.

"We had 12 entries in the busking competition this year with participants ranging in age from 6-18. The talent on display was superb with all competitors receiving recognition for their efforts," Jim said.

This being the third year of Féile na Sionainne, Jim believes that a "seed has now been sewn" amongst the local public which can only lead to a more successful event in the future.

Jim paid tribute to his fellow committee members and volunteers "without whom Féile na Sionainne would not have been possible".

"From a logistics perspective and planning a programme schedule which appeals to all, there is so much involved. They have worked tirelessly and selflessly for the cause and I am grateful for all their time and efforts," he said.

Similarly, River Festival chairperson, Padraig Hegarty, reflected on a bank holiday weekend which he said brought "great buy-in" from the public.

"I have already received numerous texts from community groups and the local businesses who want to be involved in next year's festival, such is a the positivity surrounding the weekend's events," Padraig said.

Padraig stated that the River Festival has vast potential, and the feedback received from the public has given him great cause for optimism.

"Starting with the Mythical Ireland street parade on Friday night, the festival just proved a huge success.

We had eight zones of activity dotted throughout the town and the Viking village, which was doubled in size, proved hugely popular," Padraig said.

Padraig expressed his thanks to the Family Resource Centre and Carmel Duffy, Manager of Athlone Arts and Tourism, who played "massive roles" in the success of the festival. He also gave a word of gratitude to the festival's main sponsor, ‘Viking Mike’ McDonnell.