Stunning Graiguenamanagh has been basking in the sunshine and is now preparing for an entire month of festivals as the count-down begins to four major events which will appeal to all ages, all interests, to locals and visitors alike.
The town’s natural and built heritage will be showcased during the four major festivals which start out with the Graiguenamanagh Regatta from August 3-5; the Music Festival from August 11-12; the Walking Festival August 18 -19 and wrapping up with the Town of Books Festival from August 24 to 26.
Festivals committee spokesperson, Mag Whelan, said: “The town that nearly drowned in flash flooding is back again, and we’re looking forward to a record-breaking August. The fabulous spell of good weather has really benefitted Graiguenamanagh with thousands flocking here in recent weeks to enjoy swimming and other water pursuits, walks, cycles, fishing and so much more.
“Our new outdoor pursuit hub at the meeting of the Duiske and Barrow rivers is a major boost to the town and will really help us to become the outdoor pursuits capital of Ireland.
“The purpose-built, centre is an incubation hub for outdoor activities and social enterprises and is a further boost to the town. We’re hoping it will be busy right throughout the year and know it will be a tremendous boost to the established outdoor pursuits firms who are already operating in this region.
“The new hub will also further enhance Graiguenamanagh’s proud reputation as a leading community which supports healthy living, healthy lifestyles, wellbeing, activities and an infectious sense of adventure and fun among all ages, all levels of participation. It has also just been granted a license to host civil registrations.”
The four festivals start out with the Annual Graiguenamanagh River Regatta. It has been run since 1886 and attracts water sport lovers who participate in races plus and admire the skill of others, enjoy the fun and support everyone taking part. Sunday, August 5, is the major competition day and will feature high and low diving competitions, Cot Races and a wide selection of Swimming Races open to all and all age groups. Cash prizes and trophies are on offer for the rowing events.
The Music Fest the following weekend will see lots of fun and musical events at the Hub and in various pubs throughout the town whilst the Walking Festival will feature a series of walks around the area
The month ends with the ever popular and growing Town of Books Festival a weekend-long event.., which is supported by Kilkenny County Council, Failte Ireland and Creative Ireland This year, over 30 independent booksellers will be in attendance and visiting authors include Patricia Gibney and Helena Duggan events to look forward to are an exploration of the life, times and works of Kavanagh, a major food and craft fair, local history tour and so much more. ..
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