The clouds parted and the rain gave way to beautiful sunshine as Taoiseach Simon Harris arrived at the Night and Day festival on the shores of Lough Key yesterday evening to briefly let his hair down after another week in the political cauldron. As kayakers enjoyed the water and boats came and went from the pretty onsite marina, the leader of the country was greeted by the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, senior members of Coilte and barista Margaret Leyden, who gifted him a ‘delicious’ latte. The Taoiseach joined thousands of festival goers who were treated this weekend to an impressive music lineup in the majestic surroundings of Lough Key Forest Park.
Some also watched the All-Ireland Quarter Final involving Roscommon, although that result might be better left to the sports pages. The festival, which is in its third year, kicked off on Friday night and will wrap up tonight with some of the biggest names in Irish music taking to the stage. The organisers have been keen to showcase independent acts this weekend and also provide a family friendly vibe.
Tipperary singer-songwriter Gemma Hayes took to the stage at 4pm yesterday as the rain finally gave way to sunshine. She was followed by The 4 of Us, the Undertones, Ash and Damien Dempsey. Speaking to Newstalk’s Anton Savage yesterday, Ms Hayes praised the ‘beautiful’ festival setting and said it was ‘amazing’ to have her kids with her.
I’ve always wanted to be part of the circus, so there’s that el.