Whit Jamboree to pack a punch

If you're looking for a hooley over the June bank holiday weekend, something for all the family, you needn't look any further afield than the annual Killinkere Whit Jamboree Festival from June 3 to 6 at the leisure centre. The event has grown so successfully in recent years that it is now a firm favourite in the summer festival calendar for this region and with the Saw Doctors headed for Bailieboro direction, this year's festival is set to be bigger and better than ever before. The old favourites are back promising fun for all the family - field games, music, zorbing, dog show, bonny baby, old folks party, inflatables, amusements and much more. On Friday night there's some sporty, healthy entertainment, with the line-up consisting of football and dramatic make-overs. Killinkere's Senior Team take on local rivals Knockbride. Then, there's the final of Killinkere's Operation Transformation, with all proceeds going to the Attracta Doherty Pink And Gold Foundation to help breast cancer charities and organisations. There will be finger food, drinks and music in the lounge. Saturday night will be a battle to the bitter end for three Killinkere couples, with one following in the footsteps of the future Mr. & Mrs. Colm Smith and taking the title of Mr. & Mrs. Jamboree 2011 sponsored by Lisgrey House. This will be followed by music till late in the lounge. Sunday's main event is a stunt show consisting of BMXers, skateboarders and inline skaters. Check out the Ramp Riders on their own specially constructed ramp (which can be indoor or outdoor, depending on the weather). Sunday's line-up also includes an amazing chainsaw skills team who'll wow the crowd using only a chainsaw and some wood. Lee Burridge, magician, will also enthrall the crowd with his awesome magic tricks and party pieces. The Ulster Breakdancing Championships will also be returning to Jamboree 2011 and a huge show is promised. Killian Rogers, master puppeteer, will be on hand to entertain the crowd and stilt jugglers will delight all those who view their marvellous tricks. The Craggy Island Fun Fair will be returning and with them they will have more new attractions and amusements to entertain adults and children alike. The Fishing Competition will once again take place on Gallon River with refreshments being served afterwards. Also making a debut at Jamboree 2011 on Sunday, June 5, and Monday, June 6, will be the first ever Killinkere farmers market and arts and crafts event. Any traders wishing to participate should contact PJ on 087-2073549. Sunday night the ever-brilliant Saw Doctors return to Killinkere Jamboree and are sure to put on another fantastic show. They are being supported by local up-and-coming band, Shouting At Planes, who are currently promoting their first album, Surrender. Doors will be open from 7pm. Tickets are €25 and are available from outlets including CJ's Cafe, Virginia; Sheanon's Butchers, Bailieboro; Pat Clarke's, Ballyjamesduff; Multisound, Cavan and the website jamboree.ie. Monday brings about the return of the Cavan Boxing Club's exhibition matches and the second annual Pub O'War competition. Come along and support your local pub. There is also an open darts competition taking place, and the Craggy Island Fun Fair and the farmers market and arts and crafts fair will continue. The Old Folks Party will be in the lounge during the day with music by Eddie Owens. Monday evening Virginia Rugby Club will take on the Killinkere C team in a Rugby v GAA match. One half is GAA and one half Rugby. The question is: Which team will come out on top? Throw-in is at 5pm and all proceeds will go to Crumlin Children's Hospital. There will be finger food and drinks and music by The High Stool in the lounge afterwards, and a good night is guaranteed. Highlight The highlight of the weekend's daytime entertainment will be the air show on Sunday, June 6 when one of Europe's top air stunt acts, The Twister Duo, will top the bill with their breathtaking aerobatic shows. The two planes will leave spectators gasping with their execution of synchronised loops and much more. Not only that, Dave Bruton and Eddie Goggins are on hand to entertain.