The Hidden Heartlands gears up for Global Rossie Day
With Global Rossie Day just around the corner on September 22, Roscommon County Council has announced a series of exciting community events across the county to mark the celebration.
The celebration is designed to encourage people living in Roscommon to become a tourist within their own county, as well as encouraging Rossies who are based elsewhere in Ireland or abroad to engage with a celebration of their roots and all that makes Roscommon great.
Over the autumn weekend, Roscommon will be brimming with activities, entertainment and captivating experiences which will give people a true sense of Roscommon.
This initiative is part of the Roscommon Bound campaign, which aims to showcase why Roscommon is the perfect destination to choose for a richer life, showcasing key locations where residents and visitors can engage, explore, and enjoy all that Roscommon has to offer.
The programme of events includes the following:
Boyle: A Hub of Cultural and Family-friendly Activities
Boyle, a charming town rich in history and culture, kicks off the festivities on Friday, September 20, with Culture Night at King House, featuring immersive tours in full costume led by Tish Golden.
Art enthusiasts can also visit the Una Bhan gallery to view the Roscommon Artists Display, showcasing Siobhan Cox Costello's 'The Language of Colour' and Sarah Ellen Lundo’s 'Eco Art'.
On Saturday, September 21, activities in Boyle start early with the Lough Key Park Run at 9:30 am, followed by historical walking tours led by local guide Tony Conboy, who will bring the town's rich history to life with insights from the 'Boyle Through the Decades' book.
Families can enjoy a Free Family Picture Scavenger Hunt from 2:00-4:00 pm, a fun and inclusive activity that encourages locals and visitors to discover Boyle’s historical landmarks. Prizes include family passes to the Lough Key Adventure Centre and King House.
Roscommon Town: Connecting Through Culture and Nature
In Roscommon town, Friday (September 20) kicks off with lively music in local pubs as part of Culture Night.
On Saturday, September 21, the day starts with market stalls on the Square, followed by family fun in Mote Park and walking tours, including a castle tower viewing.
The afternoon brings dance and drama performances, community events, and cultural showcases, culminating with a vibrant evening of music and dance in the main square.
Sunday, September 22, offers more walking tours, a Brazilian Festa, and engaging community interviews, all amidst a car-free day celebration.
Castlerea: Celebrating Community and Inclusion
Castlerea offers a unique lineup starting on Friday night with a community music event at the Arts Centre, celebrating the diverse cultures within the community, including performances from Ukrainian, Brazilian, Polish, and Irish artists.
Saturday's events include an inclusive park run, and a town treasure hunt using the Xplore app. The festivities finish off on Sunday with a historic guided walk and digital connections with the diaspora, showcasing the town’s rich history and bringing the community together for Global Rossie Day.
Ballaghaderreen: Art, Wellness, and Nature
Ballaghaderreen hosts a weekend of creative and relaxing activities on September 21 and 22.
Conor O'Connell will lead an outdoor "au plein air" painting session, inviting participants to capture the beauty of the natural surroundings. Justine Purcell will offer yoga and meditation sessions, providing a peaceful retreat.
The Ballaghaderreen Writer's Group will conduct a creative writing session, encouraging literary expression.
At Willowbrook Camping, families can enjoy a fun-filled art and nature event, perfect for kids and adults alike, blending creativity with the great outdoors.
Strokestown: Family, Fun, and Football
Strokestown offers a cultural exploration and community fun from September 20 to 22.
On Friday evening, 'Keeping The Connection' at Strokestown Park House, a unique Culture Night experience, will feature exhibits from Ukrainian artists that connect historical artefacts to moments from the past.
Saturday begins with a park run at 9:30am and continues into the evening with live music by "The Rodeoman" at Compton’s Central Bar at 8:00pm.
Sunday kicks off with a Kids Soccer Blitz and Jersey Day at Strokestown United FC at 11:00am, inviting everyone to wear their favourite international team’s jersey.
The weekend wraps up with a lively traditional music session at Compton’s Central Bar at 8:00pm, celebrating community spirit.
Roscommon has a very strong sense of community, providing ample opportunities for people to connect with others, which plays a pivotal role in the quality of life that people can enjoy.
There is a rich cultural eco-system throughout Roscommon with an array of festivals, creative arts and entertainment, and a host of diverse amenities that lend well to supporting sports and other pastimes.
Historical heritage also plays a significant role in shaping the sense of richness of life in Roscommon, while connectivity can take on multiple meanings in terms of the “Richer Life” that the county can provide.
From high-speed connection to the outside world enabling successful careers on location or remotely, to the connection provided by the neighbourly communities and the connection with nature so easily accessible due to the wealth of outdoor activities available.
For more information on Global Rossie Day, and events taking place in various Roscommon locations, see https://www.roscommonbound.ie/