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23/08/2015
Locals Beth, Niamh and Ruth

Cooney, are all smiles at the Youghal Medieval Festival at St Mary's College Gardens, Youghal.
Picture: David Keane.

Press Release – For Immediate Release

23rd August 2015

Youghal Medieval Festival 2015 Continues to ‘Bring Heritage to Life’

One of the country’s largest free events organised to celebrate National Heritage Week 2015 delivered in abundance in Youghal this weekend (Sunday 23rd August 2015).

St. Mary’s College Gardens in the ‘Raleigh Quarter’ of medieval Youghal was the venue for the 2015 Youghal Medieval Festival. Described by a representative of The Heritage Council of Ireland (who funds the event along with Cork County Council) as “the mother and father of all medieval festivals”, the programme for the day delivered on its promise of ‘bringing heritage to life’. This was undertaken through a range of unique and innovative heritage themed activities.

‘The White Horse Living Society’ were the key attraction with over 30 re-enactors undertaking a series of truly authentic ‘battle siege re-enactments’ to leave the thousands of on-lookers in awe. The ‘medieval village’ set within the gardens saw music play an integral role in the event, with medieval dancing & music by “Torcan”. Youghal Pipe Band, who is over 100 years in existence, also performed a number of rousing renditions which only added to the atmosphere. New for 2015 to the programme were Cork puppet specialists “Dowtcha Puppets” which was a major hit with the younger audience. A ‘back to basics’ policy of the organisers saw dozens of children immerse themselves in arts and crafts; with shield making and painting being the most popular.

A venue which has been much lauded in recent times is the internationally renowned National Monument, St. Mary’s Collegiate Church; adjacent to the Gardens which offered free guided tours offered as part of the event.

Youghal Medieval Festival is funded by The Heritage Council of Ireland and Cork County Council. It is organised by Youghal Heritage Committee and their loyal team of volunteers.
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Issued by: Youghal Socio-Economic Development Group for
Youghal Medieval Festival (Youghal Heritage Committee)
Further information: tourism@youghal.ie/024-81814