Super entertainment guaranteed! ‘Don't say maybe, come to the Longford Ukulele céilí’ this weekend

It's the world's most popular instrument and Longford is set to continue its association with the Ukulele as the Ukulele Céilí returns this weekend.

The Sneaky Tequilas will host the third annual Ukulele Céilí, the midlands biggest celebration of all things Ukulele.

Starting this Friday, July 19 and running to Sunday, July 21 enthusiasts of the baby of the guitar family will descend on Longford to attend the annual gathering.

The weekend is packed with things to do for music lovers and musicians including a festival music club, ukulele workshops and master classes, and the all-day entertainment.

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The 2024 lineup of artists, the only music festival in Longford this year, include local acts The Sneaky Tequilas and Ukeristic Congress, Little John Nee, Busukes, and BUGS (Ballinamore Ukulele Group).

Most events are taking place on the centrally-located Pig Market Lane or in Lyon’s Bar on Lower Main Street, Longford. The musical performances will be the big draw, but there is a host of workshops over the weekend for all abilities.

The programme commences on Friday, July 19, 2024 with the official festival opening and concert at Lyon’s Bar and Beer Garden.

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Reservation is essential for workshops and this should be done online. All other music events have tickets available on the door, or are free admission.

On Saturday a beginner workshop with David Crowe and an improvers and advanced workshop with Keith White will take place at the St. Michael’s Boys National School.

“Hit Me!” is an all questions answered workshop by the renowned Andrew Robinson, it will take place on Saturday in St Michael’s Boys National School. The “Effects and More Workshop” sees the return of Elena Duff to St Michael’s Boys National School.

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One of the big draws of the festival is the UkoVision Junior Song Contest on Saturday. The venue is the Pig Market Lane, Longford from 3pm.

Songs can be original or covers. Entries must be limited to a max of three performers and include a strong ukulele element. The winners will also be given the opportunity to perform at a family concert on Sunday.

The Sunday highlight is the Big Acoustic Picnic, a family fun day all day long at Pig Market Lane. This concert features The Sneaky Tequilas, North Kildare Ukulele Club (KNUCs), Dukeries Ukeries and UkoVision Under 16 Winners of 2023 and 2024.

Sean Mulroy, festival programmer and Sneaky Tequila front man: “It’s gonna be a weekend of tiny guitars, massive craic, sneaky pints, Sneaky Tequilas, colour and song over two days in locations you’d least expect throughout Longford Town. Don’t say maybe, come to the céilí.”

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Ukulele Céilí runs from Friday, July 19 and runs to Sunday, July 21 2024.

Friends of the Festival are: Pig Market Lane (Hertrich’s), Valentines’ Beer Garden, Fabiani Outdoor Area, Athena Art Gallery, Tally Ho, PV’s, Hughies and Torc Outdoor Area.

PICTURES | Sweet tunes and a lovely friendly atmosphere at Longford's Ukulele Céilí