4 minute read
Rockchapel Gathering Weekend 2025 Launches in Style at Murphy’s Bar
The much-anticipated Rockchapel Gathering Weekend 2025 was launched in festive fashion on Saturday night last at Murphy’s Bar, where a large and enthusiastic crowd gathered to kick off the countdown to one of the most exciting weekends in the village calendar.
The evening began with a warm welcome from MC Louise Curtin, who thanked the local community and supporters for turning out in such impressive numbers. A video highlights reel of the 2024 Gathering Weekend brought a wave of fond memories and set the tone for what’s to come.
Councillor Bernard Moynihan, representing the Lord Mayor of Cork, addressed the crowd and spoke passionately about the value of community events in rural areas. He praised the work of the organising committee and stressed the importance of continued support and funding for villages like Rockchapel.
Louise then took a moment to acknowledge the vital financial backing received from the Windmill Association in 2024, without which the Rockchapel Gathering Weekend would not have gotten off the ground. She introduced Chairman Patrick Browne, who echoed her gratitude and praised the committee’s dedication, revealing that over 250 hours of meetings have already taken place to prepare for the upcoming festival.
A major highlight of the night was the introduction of the captains for this year’s eagerly awaited Three Counties Challenge – a vibrant variety show that pits Cork, Kerry, and Limerick against one another in music, dance, and drama. Louise introduced Kerry’s co-captains Sheila Heery and Shelagh O’Connor, Limerick captain Con Herbert, and Cork’s Eily Mai Hickey. Each captain was honoured with a heartwarming video of well wishes, followed by the presentation of their county flags by none other than the Lord Mayor of Rockchapel, Ita Geaney.
The formalities concluded with a heartfelt thanks to Murphy’s Bar for hosting the night and to the many sponsors whose support makes the festival possible. The evening then transitioned into a lively traditional music session that continued late into the night, featuring a blend of Irish music and song that created a truly magical atmosphere.
The Rockchapel Gathering Weekend 2025 will take place from June 6th to 8th, promising a packed programme of entertainment for all ages: Friday, June 6th: The weekend opens with a concert at Bruach na Carraige at 8pm, featuring acclaimed Fermanagh band Tully, with support from Rockchapel’s own McAuliffe Family.
Saturday, June 7th: The everpopular Community Cuppa returns, with music from Jim Kiely and Friends, and magic for the kids.
Afternoon events include a kids’ music session in Murphy’s Bar hosted by John McNulty and a singing session in Paddy Molly’s Bar hosted by Eibhlín and Liam Broderick. The day culminates in the Three Counties Challenge Variety Show in Rockchapel Community Centre.
Sunday, June 8th: Festivities begin with a traditional Trad Mass, followed by a lively Craft Fair on the Church grounds. Family fun abounds with an Animal Roadshow, face painting, art corner, kids’ tractor run, and more. Food and refreshments will be available all day.
The weekend will close with a free outdoor concert, starting with Up in Smoke (3:30–5:30pm), followed by The Rising (6–8pm), and DJ Donal keeping the party going into the night. Pub sessions will also take place nightly, with all musicians welcome to join.
This year’s Rockchapel Gathering promises to be the biggest and most entertaining yet. For updates, visit the official Rockchapel Gathering Weekend website or follow on social media.
