First event to celebrate Ballina 2023 is a free open-air live music event
The line-up for Ballina 2023’s first live event will feature local favourites folk/trad/pop group Billow Wood, rising star Michael Moloney, popular tenor David Lynn, songstress and budding actress Fionnuala O’Boyle and Ballina’s own drag queen extraordinaire Bradley Brock.
The event, which is part of Culture Night, will also have the first public screening of the new Ballina 2023 promo film in what promises to be a magical evening on the banks of the river Moy.
Due to current government restrictions, to ensure no one is left disappointed a pre-recorded digital event, Ballina 2023: Beginnings – Live, featuring a song from each of the performing artists, will also go live on the Ballina 2023 website and social channels from 6 p.m. on Friday next, September 17.
In addition, to mark National Bike Week, the launch of Ballina 2023 will be a car-free event in collaboration with Ballina’s Green Town initiative. Those attending are encouraged to park in Ballina’s existing car parks and walk or cycle to Tom Ruane Park. A ‘park n ride’ convoy will also leave Batchelor’s Walk car park at 5.30 p.m., led by Rachel Nolan of Rachel’s Irish Adventures.
The convoy will start with a road safety briefing for cyclists, followed by a short circuit around the bridges by bike and then out along the river to the event. The convoy will return to Batchelor’s Walk after the event concludes. In partnership with the Road Safety Authority, Ballina Green Town will be distributing high vis vests to all participants.
Ballina 2023 is funded by Mayo County Council and supported by Ballina Municipal District Council, Ballina Chamber of Commerce, Mayo North and Moy Valley Resources. Event partners include Ballina Arts Centre, Jackie Clarke Collection, Ballina Library, Mayo Volunteer Centre and Ballina’s Green Town initiative.
The Local Live Performance Programming Scheme is funded by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media and administered by Mayo County Council.
The event is free but ticketed (two tickets per booking). Tickets are available here. A Digital Covid Certificate will be required for entrance to the event and you are kindly asked to wear a mask. Gates open at 6 p.m. for a 6.30 p.m. start.