Paddy Breen, Chairperson of Ulster Fleadh Commitee, Roisin Howell Chairperson of Newcastle CCÉ, Eamonn Graham Chairperson of Ulster Council of CCÉ, Roisin Mulgrew, Chairperson of Newry Mourne and Down District Council, along with Newcastle CCÉ musicians Tara McKay, Saoirse Barbour and Anna níNualláin

The Co. Down town of Castlewellan has been announced as the venue for this year’s Ulster Fleadh, which is set to take place from 21 -30 July. The Fleadh will feature music competitions across a range of instruments and ages, as well as a packed schedule of performances and cultural activities, with headline acts to be announced over the coming months.

More than 20,000 visitors are expected to travel to Castlewellan along with the 5000 participants for a showcase of traditional Irish music, song and dance, providing a boast for the local economy, estimated to be worth around £2.5 million.

Speaking at the launch of the fleadh season in Castlewellan, local Comhaltas Chair, Roisin Howell, said: “Castlewellan will be pulling out all the stops to ensure that this year’s event is bigger and better than ever, and we will be working with local businesses and the Council to ensure the benefits will be felt across Co. Down.

“We want to make the Fleadh truly inclusive, and events will include a cross-community day to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the province, which is embodied through the CEOL Project, made up of young members of the Newcastle Comhaltas branch, the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association and the Music Service for Pipes and Drums.”

Director of Comhaltas in Ulster, Brendan McAleer said: “The Ulster Fleadh celebrates all that is good about culture, and is an opportunity to showcase the talent both of our traditional musicians, which is something we are renowned for around the world.

“Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann is delighted to see the Ulster Fleadh return to Castlewellan, and we want to build on the success of last year’s fleadh in Bangor to make the event truly world class.

 “The Ulster Fleadh offers something for everyone, and with many of the events free to attend, it’s a great way to enjoy some culture and craic, and maybe even inspire a few people to dust down a forgotten instrument!”

President of Comhaltas, Ann Finnegan said, “I am delighted the Ulster Fleadh is returning to Castlewellan, following its successful history in the town in 1997, 1998, 2008, 2009 and 2010. We know this one will be the best yet.”

Full details of all events can be found at www.ulsterfleadh.com or on Ulster Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann Facebook page.