Belcarra to host flagship European cultural celebration

BELCARRA will celebrate its connections with Europe on Saturday, August 22, when the village hosts the Belcarra European Cultural Celebration - A Festival of Shared Heritage, one of just six flagship cultural events in County Mayo included in the EU Presidency Cultural Programme.

Taking place from 3 to 5 p.m., the event will bring the community together for an afternoon celebrating Belcarra’s heritage, its European connections and the experiences of local people who have made their homes across Europe.

The celebration will begin at 3 p.m. with an ecumenical service in St. Anne’s Church, followed by a group photograph on the church steps. Those attending will then make their way to Belcarra Community Centre.

The official programme includes an opening address by Councillor John Caulfield, cathaoirleach, Mayo County Council, followed by the National Anthem and keynote contributions from the French Consulate, Catherine Ganges, and Dr. Michael O’Connor.

Irish music and dance will also feature prominently in the afternoon, with a performance by a Kilkenny dancing troupe accompanied by Kilkenny musicians, celebrating Ireland’s own cultural traditions as part of the wider European event.

A particularly special element will be a series of video recordings from people from Belcarra now living abroad, alongside contributions from Europeans who have made the local area their home. Through their stories, the videos will explore what it means to live, work and build connections across Europe, while maintaining a strong sense of home and community.

The event is part of Cultúr 2026 - Sharing Ireland’s Culture, celebrating culture, creativity, heritage and Ireland’s connections with Europe during Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

The afternoon will conclude with an opportunity for people to come together for photographs, food and refreshments, providing time to meet, chat and celebrate the occasion as a community.

The celebration will take place across St. Anne’s Church, Belcarra Community Centre and the wider village area, highlighting both the community and heritage at the heart of Belcarra.

Organisers are encouraging people from Belcarra and the surrounding areas to come along and be part of what promises to be a very special afternoon for the village.

Admission is free and everyone is welcome.