Mayo town prepares to celebrate Argentina Day
Foxford will proudly celebrate Argentina Day on Saturday, June 20, marking the 249th anniversary of the birth of Admiral William Brown, the Foxford-born founder of the Argentine Navy and one of the most revered figures in Argentine history.
The annual commemorative event will bring together the local community, visitors, representatives of the Argentine Embassy, supporters of the Admiral Brown Society and friends from across Ireland and Argentina to honour the remarkable life and legacy of one of Mayo's most internationally celebrated sons.
Born in Foxford on June 22, 1777, Admiral William Brown emigrated from Ireland as a child and went on to become the founder of the Argentine Navy. Reverently known in Argentina as the "Father of the Navy" and often referred to as the "Father of the Seas," Brown remains one of the country's most respected national heroes.
This year's event carries special significance as it marks the beginning of the countdown to 2027, when Foxford, Mayo and Argentina will celebrate the 250th anniversary of Admiral Brown's birth with a programme of major commemorative events and international collaborations.
Margaret Reilly, Chairperson of the Admiral Brown Society, said:
"Each year we gather to honour Admiral Brown's remarkable achievements and the enduring friendship between Ireland and Argentina. The 2026 celebrations are particularly important as we look ahead to 2027 and the 250th anniversary of Brown's birth. We look forward to welcoming visitors from near and far as we continue to strengthen the special bonds between our two countries."
This year's celebrations will welcome Her Excellency Ana Cachaza, Argentine Ambassador to Ireland, and Her Excellency Olive Hempenstall, Irish Ambassador to Argentina. Visitors can also enjoy Argentine tango dancers, performances with local dancer Gina Laffey, cultural activities in the Admiral Brown Hall, and the famous blue-and-white football atmosphere that has made Foxford's support for Argentina known around the world.
Argentine-themed tractors, representatives of the Irish Naval Service, and content creator Juanjo Marco, whose coverage is attracting significant online engagement, are also expected to be part of the day's events.
This Saturday’s commemorations will begin with prayers at Craggagh Cemetery at 11.15 a.m., followed by Mass at St. Michael's Church, Foxford at 12 noon.
A wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the Admiral Brown monument on Church Road at 1 p.m., honouring the memory and achievements of Foxford's most famous son. Participants will then be invited to walk the Admiral Brown Trail to the River Moy Promenade at 1.30 p.m. before concluding with a reception in the Admiral Brown Hall at 3 p.m. All events are open to the public and everyone is warmly invited to attend.
The Admiral Brown Society is currently working with partners in Ireland and Argentina to develop an extensive programme of events to mark the 250th anniversary of Admiral Brown's birth in 2027.
Plans include commemorative events in Foxford and Argentina, international cultural exchanges and the strengthening of long-established links between Mayo and Argentina. Discussions are also underway regarding the return of the Argentine Naval Training Ship ARA Libertad to Ireland and the possibility of official delegations travelling between both countries as part of the anniversary celebrations.
The last major delegation from Mayo travelled to Argentina in 2007, and organisers hope the upcoming anniversary will provide an opportunity to further enhance the historic relationship between the two nations.
Mairéad Melody Carr, Manager of Mayo North Tourism, welcomed the continued efforts of the Admiral Brown Society:
"Admiral Brown's story is one of Mayo's greatest international connections. The work being undertaken by the Admiral Brown Society not only preserves an important part of our shared heritage but also creates meaningful cultural and tourism links between Ireland and Argentina. The forthcoming 250th anniversary presents a unique opportunity to showcase Foxford and Mayo on an international stage."
The Admiral Brown Society, supported by Mayo County Council, extends a warm invitation to everyone to attend Argentina Day 2026 and join in celebrating a remarkable Mayo man whose legacy continues to unite communities across the Atlantic.
For further information and updates on the 2026 celebrations and the forthcoming 250th anniversary programme, visit the Admiral William Brown Society website here.