Enfield Macra's Jennifer is Meath's Blue Jean entrant

Athboy to host festival this coming bank holiday weekend

Jennifer Hannon is representing Meath at the 2025 Blue Jean Country Queen Festival, running from Friday 30th May to Monday 2nd June, organised by Meath Macra na Feirme and the Athboy community, and sponsored by Le Chéile Credit Union.

Jennifer (25), an art and Special Needs teacher and member of Enfield Macra, grew up on a dairy farm and brings creativity and compassion to her work. Her hobbies include arts and crafts, volunteering with Barretstown Camp and Rainbows Ireland, and spending time with animals. She previously taught in northern Sweden for a year.

Twenty-one contestants, including a Queen from New Zealand, will arrive in Athboy on Friday for a weekend of free family fun days, BBQs, karaoke, and evening entertainment.

Jennifer and her fellow contestants will begin their journey on Friday with team-building exercises at Causey Farm, followed by meeting their host families. The festival officially launches that evening with a tour of Athboy's hostelries.

Saturday, starts early with private judge interviews. In the afternoon, the Queens attend Le Chéile Credit Union’s Family Fun Day and BBQ, followed by karaoke at Flood's Bar. That evening, Jennifer will participate in a public interview with iRadio DJ and Athboy local Conor Woods at St James’ Hall before celebrating with The Fógues and DJ Conor Woods at The Darnley Lodge Hotel.

Sunday begins with the Queens leading a Heroes vs Villains-themed fancy dress football match to kick off the Lark in the Park at Fair Green. This free family event features live music, food stalls, children’s entertainment, and a Toy Tractor Run (prize: a John Deere Gator sponsored by Meath Farm Machinery Ltd).

That evening, the Queens change into formal wear for the Gala Banquet at Athboy Convent Community Centre. After the banquet, they return to The Darnley Lodge Hotel in jeans for the crowning of the 2025 Blue Jean Country Queen, followed by dancing to Simon Casey and DJ Conor Woods.

While the weekend prioritises fun, the winner receives a tiara, golden sash, and perpetual cup from 2024 Queen Alannah Finnegan (Cavan), plus €1,000 from Le Chéile Credit Union. Second place earns €500 (Turmec Recycling) and third €300 (Farrelly Tree Service Ltd.).

Tickets and details: www.bluejeancountryqueen.com or follow Blue Jean Country Queen Festival on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.