The annual Tullamore Irish Music Festival over Easter celebrates all things Irish, namely the Irish, the near-Irish, the stereotypically Irish and the not-really Irish.
Tullamore residents were not content to see their community lose members, services and to a certain extent, heart. They decided that by working together to produce a festival, would not only give them focus but would attract people to their town.
This year’s festival celebrates the best of two cultures. John Williamson will be flying the Australian flag on Saturday afternoon, the Barley Shakes and Blackwater Irish Band will add some Irish flavour. Maria Forde, who has the voice of an angel, will do a show in the Tullamore Catholic Church on Good Friday.
Apart from great music, the festival also offers Irish Food, Irish dancing, and a shearing demonstration. The main day is Saturday, 31st March with constant entertainment from 10am to 8pm starting with a street parade. Other activities include an art exhibition, farm tours, the Good Friday concert, self-guided car tours, an ecumenical service and a Hooley on Easter Sunday.
Tickets are $60 for the entire weekend; free for kids under 18 for a weekend of family fun with a big dose of Irish.