1916 memorial event at Athenry

IT was a day of dignified celebration in Athenry on Easter Monday when the State, the County Council and the GAA joined forces for a memorable celebration of the 1916 Rising.
Thousands of men, women and children thronged the streets of the ancient town in bright sunshine for an event that showed the best of Irish culture and sporting life.
Communities the length and breadth of the county were represented by their GAA clubs, and the bright colours added a touch of gaiety to a solemn occasion.
Athenry Town Park, beside the Norman castle, was crowded and outside the walls many more stood to enjoy the aeríocht, an outdoor display of Irish music, song and poetry.
Among those who contributed performances were the Abbeyknockmoy Set Dancers, Roisin Mannion, musician and singer from Moylough, Tuam’s Michael Stewart, sean-nós dancer Roisin Ní Mhainnín, and singers and musicians from Connemara.