4 minute read
Rockchapel Gathering Weekend Delivers Unforgettable Inaugural Event
By SEAN LYONS
The inaugural Rockchapel Gathering Weekend, held from June 7th to June 9th, 2024, has concluded with resounding success, leaving attendees with cherished memories and a deep sense of community spirit. The weekend’s diverse array of activities, music, and entertainment drew large crowds, fulfilling its promise to provide something for everyone.
The festivities began on Friday night, June 7th, with a spectacular concert at Bruach na Carraige. Ella Marie Dwyer, accompanied by Conor Lenihan and members of Freemount Comhaltas set the tone for the weekend with their mesmerizing performances, even a power outage didn’t stop the show!! The evening’s vibrant atmosphere continued into the night with lively pub music sessions at Murphy’s Bar and Paddy Molly’s Bar, where musicians entertained enthusiastic patrons.
Saturday, June 8th, kicked off with a “Community Cuppa” coffee morning at Bruach na Carraige, featuring delightful music by Jim Kiely and Henry Keogh. A huge thank you to all who supplied home baking for the event. The day continued with a Kids Music Session at Paddy Molly’s Bar, providing an interactive and fun experience for the younger attendees. Following this, Eibhlín and Liam Broderick led a Singing Session that captivated audiences with traditional melodies.
The excitement peaked on Saturday evening at the Community Centre with the selection of the Mayor of Rockchapel. The candidates—John Walsh, Ita Geaney, Neily Curtin, and Eileen O Mahony—each brought their unique charm to the sold out event, but it was Ita Geaney who was ultimately crowned Mayor of Rockchapel amid much applause and celebration.
Sunday, June 9th, began with a trad mass at the church, featuring the harmonious voices of the Rockchapel Choir. This was followed by a bustling Craft Fair in the Church yard, showcasing over 20 stalls with local crafts, food trucks, and a biodiversity demonstration. Families enjoyed a variety of activities, including a Tractor Run through the village, face painting, balloon modelling, and live entertainment by Sheila Fitzgerald, creating a vibrant,
family-friendly atmosphere. The weekend’s highlight was the free open-air concert on Sunday evening. Fuinneamh, a five-piece band, enchanted the audience with their mix of traditional music and song, while No Strings Attached kept the crowd dancing late into the night with a mix of modern and classic hits. The final night also saw continued pub music sessions at Murphy’s Bar and Paddy Molly’s Bar, wrapping up the weekend on a high note.
Chairman Patrick Browne expressed his gratitude to all who attended and supported the event. “The Rockchapel Gathering Weekend has truly been a celebration of our community spirit. All the committee are thrilled with the turnout and the joy this event has brought to so many in the community,” he said. The success of the Rockchapel Gathering Weekend has set a strong foundation for future events, ensuring it will become a cherished annual tradition. The committee would like to thank anyone who helped out in anyway and everyone that came to the Rockchapel Gathering Weekend. We look forward to The Rockchapel Gathering Weekend 2025!!!!
