Rolling on the River
Belturbet River Fest takes place Saturday, August 16.
“Belturbet has so much going for it,” says Caroline McGovern, a member of the organising committee behind the upcoming Belturbet River Fest (Saturday, August 16).
Set against the stunning backdrop of the River Erne the inaugural event promises a truly unforgettable day of wellness, family fun, and shared community.
Holistic Start
Beginning with a wellness morning on the scenic Turbet Island, it sets the tone with a 5km run or walk. Open to all fitness levels, this early morning event is a great way to get the blood flowing and spirits lifted.
From 10am to 1pm, the Wellness Morning continues with outdoor classes designed to nourish both body and mind.
The line-up includes Pilates with Tara Henderson at 10am (€10), followed by Yoga with Sharon Brennan at 11am (€10), and finally, Soundbath and Breathwork with Maria McIntyre at 12pm (€15).
Attendees can book individual sessions or enjoy the full trio for a discounted price of €30, with booking details available on the Discover Belturbet Facebook page. Organisers hope the event provides a vibrant reflection of what Belturbet represents best.
“It’s a lovely space and it’s lovely just to be outdoors,” says Tara, highlighting how fitness and wellness trends have evolved massively in recent years, shifting from late-night socials to more mindful, health-focused experiences.
“It’s what people want these days. It’s all about gym and coffee with friends,” regards Tara, sharing that attendees can grab a tasty a pre or post-workout treat and coffee from ÁMC - Áine & Martin’s Creations, who’ll be serving refreshments on the island from their café pod throughout the morning.
Tara meanwhile credits the willingness of local practitioners to get involved.
“People’s habits have changed. They want to be up and out early, doing stuff, and feeling good. What better way to do that than be surrounded by nature and next to the river?” she asks.
'Buzz' Returns
Caroline McGovern praises the energy of the newly formed town committee, noting the River Fest is only the first step in attempts to breathe new life into the town, with locals and visitors alike invited to attend for a jam-packed day of outdoor entertainment.
“There used to be such a buzz about the town with festivals and music,” she recalls. “This is about bringing some of that back. Belturbet has so much going for it.”
The heart of the day, quite literally, is the River Erne. One of the standout events is the much-anticipated Duck Race, starting at 2pm from the Old Railway Bridge and following the river down to Kilconny Bridge.
Ducks are available for purchase for €5 each, either in advance or on the day.
Afternoon Adventures
Following the Duck Race, the festivities continue just downstream at Morrissey Park, where from 2pm, families can enjoy an array of outdoor activities from rock climbing, outdoor games, and face painting, to balloon modelling, ice cream, and food trucks. Water lovers meanwhile can hop aboard river cruises, try their hand at stand-up paddle boarding, go kayaking, or even paddle in Canadian canoes.
“Even just being around water is therapeutic,” suggests Caroline. “It’s about giving people a taste of the fun to be had from kayaking and paddle boarding - it’s a chance to get kids off their tablets and out making memories.”
The afternoon also offers plenty of opportunities to relax too, with live music, food vendors, and more. Organisers are even encouraging families to bring a picnic and chill out by the banks of the Erne for the day.
“We’re so lucky to have this town with a river running right through it but it’s not used it enough. Tourists use it, but locally not so much,” adds Caroline. “So this will be a great way of introducing people, or in a lot of cases, reintroducing people to an important part of Belturbet.”
Night of Jazz
As the sun sets on what organisers hope will be a fantastic day, the celebrations continue with a Jazz Night at Belturbet Golf Club starting from 8pm featuring the acclaimed Daire O’Reilly of Cavan Big Band fame, together with line-up of talented guest musicians.
This will be followed later by dancing with DJ Terry Smith and Nathalie McCaul promises it will be a “lively night” and not to be missed.
Dress-up is optional, and finger food is provided. All proceeds supporting Discover Belturbet and GAA Health and Wellbeing with tickets €25 and available from Belturbet Pharmacy on Bridge Street or directly from Nathalie at 086 304 5186.
Community Reconnected
Behind the scenes, the dedicated Town Team - made up of long-time locals and new residents - has poured passion and purpose into the festival’s creation. Former councillor and artist Peggy Gray is optimistic for the future and says the enthusiasm imbued is something that bodes well for the town of Belturbet.
“We want to get the heart of the town beating again and show people what we have here. The festival is a big part of that.”
Una O’Connor, who moved to Belturbet nine years ago, now serves on the town team herself.
“It’s a wonderful place to live,” says Una proudly. “It has so much going for it.”