Ballymahon meets Brittany: a week of culture and fun for the French in Longford

The Ballymahon Town Twinning Group is set to host a vibrant six-day visit from its twinning partners in Landévant, Brittany, from Friday, May 16 to Wednesday, May 21.

This year’s programme has been thoughtfully designed to give the French visitors an authentic Ballymahon experience — not just its sights and sounds, but the heart and soul of local life, especially the warm spirit of its people.

With community visits, cultural workshops, musical gatherings, and shared meals on the agenda, the week promises to strengthen the lasting ties between Ballymahon and Landévant.

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Friday, May 16 – Arrival and Artistic Welcome

The delegation from Brittany will be greeted by their host families upon arrival in Ballymahon. That evening, the group will attend the official opening of the Ballymahon Art Club’s 2025 Exhibition — a fitting introduction to the town’s creative community.

Saturday, May 17 – Galway Celebrates Celtic Connections

The French and Irish hosts will travel together to Galway to attend Brittany Fest, marking 50 years of twinning between Galway and Lorient. The streets of Galway will come alive with Breton and Irish music, dance, and language — a jubilant expression of shared Celtic heritage.

Sunday, May 18 – History, Hospitality, and Céilí

Sunday begins with a historical talk at the Bog Lane Theatre, offering a lively look at Ballymahon’s rich past. Guests will then enjoy a traditional Irish lunch at Skelly’s.

At 3:30pm, everyone is invited to an open-air Céilí in Skelly’s courtyard, featuring the Glenside Céilí Band and traditional Breton and Irish dancing. Admission is free, and all are welcome — from Ballymahon and beyond. Afterwards, guests can enjoy friendly games of palet and boules in the garden.

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Monday, May 19 – Deepening Local Connections

On Monday, the French group will visit Bridgeways Family Resource Centre and St. Matthew’s Primary School to explore future cross-cultural partnerships. A lunchtime visit to the Convent Day Care Centre will offer a warm opportunity to engage with senior members of the local community.

In the afternoon, guests will be welcomed to the bog oak workshop of Pat Lynch, where they will witness the transformation of ancient Irish oak — over 4,000 years old — into stunning handcrafted pieces.

A formal official reception hosted by Longford and Ballymahon Municipal Districts will take place at 7.30pm in Ballymahon Community Library. Refreshments will be served.

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Tuesday, May 20 – Crafting Friendships

Tuesday morning offers two creative opportunities: a hands-on craft workshop at Ballymahon Library with the Ladies Weekly Craft Social Group (featuring knitting, crochet, and more), or a visit to Thomas Lynam’s Pottery Studio for an introduction to clay work and pottery-making.

The cultural finale of the week will take place at Castlecor House, where guests will enjoy a Summer Soirée. This elegant evening will feature classical music, a guided tour of the historic hunting lodge, and tastings of artisan food from family-run Longford producers. Refreshments will be served. Booking Information for Soirée: 087 448 8999. olivernally@yahoo.ie

Wednesday, May 21 – Farewell and Bon Voyage
The visit will conclude with a relaxed farewell coffee at Cooney’s Café before the Landévant delegation departs — enriched by a week of shared experiences, deepened friendships, and memories to carry home to Brittany.

Vive l’amitié — Long live