Countdown to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann Drogheda 2018 Begins

The international spotlight is set to shine on Drogheda, County Louth as the countdown to the official launch of Fleadh Cheoil Na hÉireann Drogheda 2018 begins. In a matter of weeks, a full programme of events will be announced by the Fleadh Executive Committee.

• Full programme of events to be announced
• Preparations ahead of schedule
• 300,000 visitors expected to visit Drogheda
• Biggest family festival in the country
• 30% of visitor expected from overseas

In March, Drogheda was officially announced by Comhaltas Ceoltólrí Éireann as the host for the Fleadh in 2018, and within a matter of weeks the Fleadh 2018 Executive Committee was established to organise the mammoth undertaking. Fleadh 2018 Drogheda is expected to attract an audience eight times that of Electric Picnic.

In the intervening months, a number of venues for the various competitions and concerts have been identified. A location for the spectacular dome has also been approved and the services of an event management company and PR company have been agreed.

Meetings with the emergency services and the Gardaí have taken place to discuss requirements for the Fleadh and an agreement on resources has been reached. The Louth Volunteer centre has also played an active part in the planning and will provide crucial resources and manpower throughout the festivities. The Executive Committee has also engaged with their counterparts in Ennis and Sligo who previously hosted the event.

Speaking ahead of the official launch, the Chairperson of the Fleadh Executive Committee Lolo Robinson said “Fleadh Cheoil Na hÉireann 2018 provides us with a golden opportunity to showcase Drogheda and County Louth as a county steeped in history, beauty and culture to a worldwide audience.”

Lolo Robinson commended the Fleadh Executive Committee and Louth County Council for their commitment, hard work and dedication. She paid special tribute to the many voluntary groups and particularly the people of Drogheda for their enthusiasm and offers of help in order to make Fleadh Cheoil Na hÉireann Drogheda 2018 a family festival to remember.