Inistioge basks in sunshine for Féile Samhain
Sunshine, Samhain games, strawboys and more at Keep Her Lit Festival.
A glorious weekend in beautiful Inistioge in Co. Kilkenny as Keep Her Lit Festival’s final outing of the year took over the village for Féile Samhain.
The weekend was filled with sunshine, Samhain Games on the square, turnip carving, willow weaving, and lots more!
The iconic St. Mary’s Church played host to the festival's headline concert on Saturday night with powerhouse Karan Casey leading the ‘Awe na Mná’ concert featuring Inni-K, the mighty Clare Sands and harpist Brídín in the round, sharing the stage. A festival highlight!
“Culminating a year of festivals with a headline concert in such a beautiful setting featuring four of Ireland’s most phenomenal folk singers and musicians was so special - it was a concert full of heart, soul and the joy of live music. The sense of community and celebration on the village square during Sunday’s Samhain Gathering will keep the fire in our hearts warm through winter!”commented festival organisers Liadain, Kasia and Jadzia Kaminska.
On Sunday, young and old enjoyed Samhain Games on the square, willow weaving workshops, apple pressing with thanks to Kilkenny Fruit Tree Project, Turnip Carving hosted by Hay Crafts and a beautiful Strawboy procession followed by a Strawboy session. A packed programme of sold out workshops, Sean-nós singing & dancing in Cois Abhainn throughout the day.
The festival's Remembrance Lantern procession honored loved ones that have passed, fronted by Maura Brennan and Paddy Doyle ending with a fire ceremony by the river.