17 Apr 2023
Irish traditional music showcase as Fleadh Cheoil comes to beautiful Bandon
Cork is the beating heart of traditional Ireland, a rebel county that has retained its Irish authenticity while moving into the 21st century, with a special opportunity on the horizon to visit Cork.
These traditional links will be on display as the Cork County Fleadh Cheoil comes to West Cork town Bandon. As many as 5000 people are expected to descend on the location for a weekend of quality Irish music, showcasing the very best in Cork’s traditional talent.
The first Fleadh Cheoil, meaning ‘Festival of Music’, was first run by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann in 1951. The event was inspired by the idea of supporting and improving Irish traditional music through competition, giving musicians an outlet and social event for their craft.
Irish traditional music has retained a strong following both at home and internationally, with regular use in films, plays and performances bringing modern relevance.
Cork residents and visitors are invited to Bandon to experience the traditional event, with competitions at St Brogan’s College on Saturday and Sunday, April 29th and 30th before moving to Bandon GAA pavilion.
In addition to the musical competition there will be pop up musical performances across the town, with a singing night in O’Mahony’s bar in Newcestown and a ceilí taking place in Newcestown Community Hall. A ceilí is a night of group Irish dancing of reels and jigs at which anyone can join in and learn some Irish steps, in a tradition that can be dated back to at least the 1500’s.
The National Finals of this years competition will return to Mullingar, where the first ever Fleadh Cheoil was held in 1951.
Cork – a county rich in Irish tradition that makes a great place to Live, Work and Visit.
Learn more about visiting this special Irish event at –
Learn more about living in cultural, traditional Cork here –