The Slieve Bloom Ard Eireann Festival is back again this year and takes place the last weekend of July, Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th July. The Slieve Bloom Ard Eireann Festival is an ancient pre-harvest festival which was revived 4 years ago by The Slieve Bloom Association.

Pat Good in the Forge, Ballyfin on the Ard Eireann Bus Trip, 2013 – Photo, Kathleen Culliton

Saturday July 26th, Day 1 of The Slieve Bloom Ard Eireann Festival.

Guided bus tour of the Slieve Bloom Mountains including a walk to Clapook Waterfall.
Led this year by the eminent geologist and expert on the archaeology and natural history of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, Dr John Feehan.

Meet at Mountmellick Development Association car park at 10am and will return at 4pm.
Please bring comfortable footwear and a picnic lunch.
The bus tour costs €10 and booking is essential, please phone Kathleen at 0863852737.

Some of the group at Srahan Scout Centre before setting off on the walk for Ard Eireann Festival in 2013

Sunday July 27th, Day 2 of The Slieve Bloom Ard Eireann Festival.

Guided walk to Arderin the highest point in the Slieve Bloom Mountains reviving an ancient tradition.
Meet at The Poets Cottage in Camross at 1:30pm to make our way to Srahan Scout Centre
This year there are 2 routes available to cater for different abilities.
Appropriate footwear, rain gear, water and snack is advised and a walking stick, if required. Refreshments, entertainment and music provided for all when back at Srahan.
A free, fun-filled day in the fresh air of the beautiful Slieve Bloom mountains.

A weekend not to be missed!

First arrivals at Arderin enjoying music at Ard Eireann Festival 2013 – Photo, Kathleen Culliton