On August 23rd, approximately 750 people are expected to descend on Castlebar for the ‘Mise Éire festival’.
Originally planned for Drumshanbo, the event was cancelled there following community concerns and a petition signed by 563 artists, including Christy Moore, Charlie McGettigan, Kneecap, Frances Black, Mossie Martin, Fontaines D.C., Mike Scott of The Waterboys, Edwina Guckian, The Mary Wallopers, Chris O’Dowd, Brian Kennedy, John McCartin, and Eleanor Shanley.

The festival, which features a range of speakers, is now scheduled to take place at the Ivy Tower Hotel (formerly The Welcome Inn). Some residents have expressed concerns about how the event might affect Castlebar’s proud reputation as a welcoming place for tourists, business investors, shoppers and those who call it home. Organisers describe this as a "family friendly event" but increased security reflects a cautious approach to ensuring safety on the part of the hotel.

Promotional material for the ‘Mise Éire festival’ refers to a ‘Secret Location, Outside Castlebar” ’and speaks of a ‘common vision’ and ‘like-minded friends’. Some locals say this unusual level of secrecy has left them uncertain about the nature of the event and its potential impact on the town.

Those who share these concerns are encouraged to contact their local representatives, the Ivy Tower, or express their views online. A petition is available below for those wishing to register their opposition.

Castlebar is widely regarded as a vibrant, welcoming, and diverse town—a place where people come to work, rest, and enjoy life. The undersigned state their view that the Mise Éire festival should not be held in our community.