Hooley at the Bridge returns

One of Cavan’s most popular summer events is set to return this July as Hooley at the Bridge takes place in Canningstown from Thursday, July 2 to Sunday, July 5.

Now a highlight of the local entertainment calendar, the festival will once again bring together comedy, music and dancing for four days of top-class entertainment.

Festival organiser Adrian Rogers is looking forward to welcoming visitors back for another memorable weekend.

“Hooley at the Bridge started back in 2014 and has gone from strength to strength over the years,” he said.

“Like many events, we lost two years during Covid, but since returning the support has been fantastic. The weekend is as strong as ever and we’re looking forward to seeing familiar faces and welcoming new visitors to Canningstown.”

The festival gets underway on Thursday, July 2, with the hilarious comedy production Mary’s Hopes and Dreams, travelling all the way from Cork. Packed with humour and guaranteed laughs, the show promises a great start to the weekend. Admission is €15 at the door.

Music takes centre stage on Friday, July 3, when One For The Road, one of Monaghan’s most respected live bands, will entertain the crowd. Known for their energetic performances and wide-ranging repertoire, they are sure to have the audience singing and dancing along. Admission is €20 at the door.

On Saturday, July 4, country music fans are in for a real treat. Popular local favourites Bandit will warm up the crowd before Eamonn Jackson and his band take to the stage.

With a lively atmosphere expected and the dance floor sure to be busy, Saturday night promises to be one of the highlights of the festival. Admission is €20 at the door.

The festival concludes on Sunday, July 5, with a fantastic triple bill of entertainment. The afternoon and evening will feature performances from Ben Troy, Niall O’Reilly (NIALLO) and Blessed, who will bring the curtain down on another Hooley at the Bridge weekend in style. Admission is €20 at the door.

As well as a packed entertainment programme, festival-goers can enjoy food and refreshments throughout the weekend. The restaurant will be open from Friday to Sunday, while a brand-new outdoor burger bar will be serving freshly prepared burgers and favourites such as curry chips, providing plenty of options for visitors attending the event.

Organisers are also encouraging those planning to attend to plan their transport arrangements in advance. Local taxi services will be available throughout the weekend, with Mark Benson Taxis operating in the area and available on 087 619 8870.

For those travelling from surrounding towns and villages, McNamee Taxis will be running bus services from the Oldcastle, Ballyjamesduff, Kilnaleck and Virginia areas. Anyone wishing to book a seat or enquire about transport can contact Daniel McNamee on 085-1244312.

Since its beginnings in 2014, Hooley at the Bridge continues to attract audiences from across Cavan and neighbouring counties, making it one of the standout community festivals of the summer.

With something for everyone across the four days, organisers are encouraging people to come along, enjoy the music and comedy, and experience the unique atmosphere that has made Hooley at the Bridge such a success.