4 minute read
Donoughmore Carnival: A Weekend of Fun and Festivities
The community of Donoughmore recently celebrated its annual carnival from Friday, July 19th to Sunday, July 21st. With a variety of activities and entertainment, this year’s carnival proved to be a weekend full of fun for all ages. Amusements from Clonroosk events were popular across the entire weekend. The festivities kicked off early on Wednesday with a progressive 45 card game and an indoor soccer blitz for 9 to 13 year olds, setting the stage for the excitement to come.
The carnival officially began on Friday with a series of engaging activities. Participants in the car treasure hunt tested their navigation skills and solved clues in an adventure around the locality. Giant board games and skittles were enjoyed by all ages while the wellie throwing competition saw entrants showcasing their throwing skills with much enthusiasm. The Teddy Daly memorial soccer match brought a sense of excitement and competition. The night concluded with bingo where a jackpot of €300 was up for grabs.
Saturday continued the carnival’s momentum with a sensory hour in the afternoon which was followed by an array of sporting events. The basketball tournament saw various teams competing in a display of athleticism and teamwork. Simultaneously, 60 girls played football in the Lily Martha Murphy memorial blitz. Donoughmore took on Mourneabbey in a friendly and spirited Mothers & Others match. The Paint & Sip proved popular with participants unleashing their inner artists while enjoying a few beverages, adding a creative flair to the festivities.
Sunday was packed with family-friendly activities and entertainment. Throughout the day, the Boathouse Bouy tea-tent offered a relaxing spot to enjoy a cup of tea and a sweet treat, while the craft and wellness tent highlighted the creativity of local people and services to promote physical and mental well-being. The sensory room was a welcome addition as a peaceful retreat from
the excitement of the day. The kids’ fancy dress competition saw children showcase their wonderful costumes. Tug of war was pulled in memory of Seán Honohan and kept spectators and competitors highly entertained. Strength and precision were tested in the sheaf tossing and penalty shootout events, while the parent and toddler activities provided fun and engagement for the youngest attendees. The milk churn races and spin the wheel game added excitement for all ages. A highlight for many was meeting Dottie & Dora’s adorable goats. Egg throwing and Macra sideshows were as popular as ever. The All-Ireland final had to feature as part of the day with supporters gathering in the community centre to watch the match. This was followed by the St John Forde Match which entertained spectators with great competition. The evening was capped off with live music by The Landlubbers, pizza from Ya Wanna Piotsa This? and the carnival raffle draw.
