Festival by the Lakes proposed for Ballybay in May 2027
A Festival by the Lakes could be on the cards for Ballybay, as it is the only town in Co Monaghan without a dedicated festival.
The idea was floated by the executive team at a recent meeting of Ballybay-Clones Municipal District (MD).
Matthew Lambe, District Co-ordinator, told elected members that the executive is examining the feasibility of organising a Ballybay Festival by the Lakes, scheduled for May 2027. The assessment will consider operational logistics, financial considerations and infrastructure required to pull off the event successfully.
His report outlined: 'The proposed one-day festival would celebrate Ballybay's unique lakeside setting and community spirit through a programme of live music, local heritage and storytelling, family activities, artisan food offerings, guided lake experiences and community participation events. The festival aims to strengthen local pride, foster community connection and enhance Ballybay's appeal as a visitor destination centred on Lough Major.'
The proposal also seeks to complement the emerging Dromore Blueway by promoting themes of water, nature, responsible recreation and environmental awareness. Guided walks, limited-capacity lake-based activities, wetland interpretation and discussion sessions would support and enhance the Blueway's outdoor and ecological offering.
MD Director of Services Nial O'Connor commented: “There is an existing fund, but hosting the Ulster Final is an expensive operation. There will be a cost to developing something more tangible, we'll come back to you on it. The Town Team needs us to help them for the first couple of years. It is very much focused on a cross-community celebration around the blueway. These things don't come cheap as you know.”
Cathaoirleach Richard Truell (FG) observed: “If you're going to have one in Clones, you have to have one in Ballybay.”
Cllr Seán Gilliland observed: “The Town Team was trying to get something going over a number of years.
“We should support the Festival of the Lakes and see if water sports providers would like to provide water-based activities on the blueway. Castle Saunderson might help.”
He also suggested an angling competition might generate some interest. Music and culture would also form a big part of the event, he said.
The Fine Gael representative added: “July and August were swamped with festivals and it had an impact. Dates are absolutely crucial.”
Mr O'Connor acknowledged the point and said the event would be a very family-orientated afternoon and evening that would be alcohol-free.
He reiterated that nothing was “firmed up yet” but pledged to keep elected reps informed.