Maritime Festival reveals Drogheda line-up

Taking place in Drogheda Port on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th June, the Irish Maritime Festival celebrates maritime history and heritage alongside brilliant musical performers, delicious food and lots of family friendly fun.

Festival Director Mary T Daly explains: “We’ve worked really hard to create a fabulous fun festival for visitors of all ages. You’ll have a blast as you explore the visiting tall ships, especially the amazing Russian Frigate Shtandart which is an exact replica of the man-of-war built by Peter the Great in 1703. Check out 21 fabulous live music acts on the Ballast Quay stage, enjoy magic, music and entertainment on King Neptune’s Kids stage. Have a good dig in The Sand Shanty or take a spin in the teacups in Finn MacCool’s Fairground.”

“Last year the Vikings returned to Drogheda. Well in 2017 we’re having a Norman invasion of the Port. Watch out for exciting sword fights and learn about life in Norman times” explains Festival Producer Elaine Fitzsimon.

She continues “Food is going to be a huge part of the 2017 Festival. Hosted by the Boyne Valley Food Series, “A Taste of Ireland’s Ancient East” will showcase all the delicious produce, food and craft brews that the region has to offer. Celebrity chef Tara Walker will head up a busy schedule of cookery demos and there will tastings galore and lovely treats to buy and take home.”

Local artists and maritime painter Ryan Mutter will showcase their artistic talents in Lir’s World of Art.

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Drogheda Port’s Captain Martin Donnelly continues: “We’ve a new programme of activity on the water this year. In addition to the six beautiful ships look up to see the Peter Pan Aerial Show performed from the mast of the tall ship “The Shtandart”. Meet the dedicated crew of the Irish Coastguard and Boyne Fishermans Rescue and learn about all they do. Watch out for the elegant yachts racing into the Port as they complete the Howth-Drogheda Yacht Challenge. Cheer on the brave swimmers as they take on the might of the river in the Boyne Swim on Saturday at lunchtime. Weather permitting, we’ve also got some more surprises on the river so it promises to be a great weekend both on and off the water.”

Music will be a huge part of the 2017 festival. 21 different live music acts will grace the Ballast Quay Stage hosted by Gerry Hodgers of The Purple Sessions in Boyle’s of Slane. Kick back in The Boyne Living Room by Sarsfieds with a local craft beer and enjoy their daytime and evening gigs. The Droichead Arts Centre, in conjunction with Drogheda Port, will host two fabulous “Stowaway Sessions” on the Earl of Pembroke on Friday and Saturday night. Tickets will go on sale next week and are very strictly limited.

Mary T Daly continues: “We conducted a detailed survey of 2016 festival visitors. Based on their feedback, we’ve focussed on delivering a fun-filled experience at excellent value. Children under 12 attend the festival free of charge, 12-18 year olds pay €3, adults  €10 and students, senior citizens, disabled/carer guests, €5. Once on-site all kids activities (except the fairground), music, food and ships activities are free of charge. Hours of fun and activity for all ages at Ireland’s largest maritime event.”
The Irish Maritime Festival is sponsored by Virgin Media, Aura, Flogas, Glanbia, Fáilte Ireland and Ireland’s Ancient East.