A packed programme of events is in store, celebrating the Boyne Valley’s recently launched Greenway, combined with an opportunity to experience the Irish language and culture of Meath’s Gaeltacht Baile Ghib. 

The Boyne Valley to Lakelands Greenway is a 30km walkers' and cyclists' paradise along the route of the old railway line from Navan in Co. Meath to Kingscourt in Co. Cavan.  Visitors to the Greenway will pass through or close to 6 villages along the route and communities along the Greenway are preparing a warm welcome, a cúpla focal and some exciting events for all ages. All events will be through Irish and everyone is welcome, no matter what their level of Irish language. 

The programme was unveiled today Thursday 8th August at a launch at Halla Bhaile Ghib/ Gibbstown Hall near Navan.  One of the flagship events over the weekend is an Outdoor Immersive Theatre piece ‘The Journey’ at Wilkinstown Platform, where the audience can participate. The performance depicts the departure of the supporters from Wilkinstown Platform for the 1949 All Ireland Final between Meath and Cavan. On Saturday morning, there will be a Folctha Fuaime Ceilteach /Celtic Meditative Sound Bath at Park Beo in Wilkinstown by Irish Sound Music artist Fiona Guiheen. This beautiful holistic experience is accompanied by soothing sounds and songs with a Celtic influence.  For families there is Áit Spraoi, Picnic Teidí, and Ceol Beo at Park Beo while at Kilmainhamwood, families can participate in a printing workshop or Toraíocht Taisce /Treasure Hunt at GNR Café. This treasure hunt for kids along the Greenway will feature clues in Irish and relating to Irish culture.

A key feature of the festival is to experience the Greenway.  Visitors will be able to enjoy an event at each village as they make their way from Baile Ghib to Wilkinstown, Castletown, Nobber and Kilmainhamwood.  A great event to help with experiencing both the Irish language and the Greenway is the Bodhrán Biking where you can cycle and learn the bodhrán at intervals. Saturday evening will conclude with a Céilí Mór at the Gaeltacht, Ceol agus Craic in Finns and Colwell’s pubs. A cultural concert at Nobber Heritage Centre on Sunday evening will be followed by a tour of the Centre’s exhibits and will complete the festivities. There will be plenty of traditional Irish food and music to enjoy along the way!

Michele Whelan, Tourism Officer for Boyne Valley said “We are really looking forward to celebrating the Irish language and culture along the new Greenway at the Siamsa Glas Festival. There are several fantastic events due to take place on what is sure to be a busy and exciting weekend for the region. The Irish language and culture is a huge part of the Boyne Valley, especially with Meath having two Gaeltachts which are the only Gaeltachts in Leinster. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone to the Boyne Valley for what will be a memorable weekend.” 

See the full programme of Siamsa Glas Festival.