Laois Festival of the Mountain scales new heights
Enjoying the Festival of the Mountain at Rosenallis were Pamela, Jack and Jess Dolley with Annette Dunne and Polloy Pocket Photo: Denis Byrne
THE famous Festival of the Mountain in Rosenallis reached the peak of success this year, welcoming the biggest-ever crowd in the event’s 63-year history.
More than 2,000 people thronged the newly-extended festival field beneath the magnificent Slieve Blooms, the largest number since it all began in 1962. Glorious sunshine brought families from near and far to enjoy a wonderful afternoon’s entertainment, with visitors from across Ireland, the UK and even the USA.
Daniel McDonald of the festival committee said: ‘It has been a massive success. The sun shone all day long and the atmosphere was electric. Our new site extension proved very useful, as it could accommodate all the parking even if it did all fill up.’
Beautiful Charlene Duff was crowned Queen of the Mountain, while the hugely popular Timahoe Male Choir and The Red Ember Belly Dancers dazzled the crowds – though in very different ways!
Other great entertainers included the New Light Duo band, Portarlington Comhaltas and the inimitable Rock On Paddy.
The festival featured a poignant tribute to the late Seán Wisely, who sadly passed away last March. His trusty tractor was displayed with a familiar photograph of Seán, who was a dedicated member of Rosenallis Development Association and Rosenallis Vintage Club, serving as an honorary president.
Festival organisers said: ‘For decades, Seán made a significant contribution to our organisations, providing sponsorship year after year, attending all our meetings and offering his time and support in so many ways. His commitment and generosity played a vital role in the success of our festival and his loss has been felt deeply by us all.’
All the favourite annual events were there, from the infamous Tug of War to the dog show, children's GAA matches and hotly contested competitions ranging from Glamorous Granny to King of the Mountain, as well as archery, vintage vehicles, amusements, dancing and a huge array of stalls and food outlets.
The committee thanked everyone who made the festival such a record-breaking success, which made all the months of hard work and effort richly worthwhile.
