ONE of the biggest date in Northern Ireland's festival calendar has arrived at last. Now in its fifth year, Glenelly's Rockin' by the River Festival has become widely recognised as the most popular on the festival circuit. This year's is not only bigger and different – but just better.
The festival launch took place last Friday night in the picturesque rural setting of St Brigid's Primary School, Cranagh, in the heart of the Glenelly Valley. The views of the verdant valley landscape seen from the school are what make this area a paradise both for those who are lucky enough to live there and for the visitor. The launch was attended by invited guests, including special guest of the evening, the newly crowned Glenelly Rose, Susan McShane of Aughabrack. All were entertained by local traditional music.
This fabulous festival provides a week of fun for all the family. From Monday right through to Sunday there is an action packed week long festival of culture and community organised activity to suit everyone. The festival committee acknowledges the support of sponsors, volunteers and Strabane District Council.
The organisers' commitment to plan quality events has once again attracted leading names, including Mike Denver, More Power to Your Elbow, The Miracles, Colenso Parade and Jokers Wild, to offer an inspiring music programme of country, traditional and rock. The festival programme includes events for all ages, such as Sperrin Ramble, disco for U-11 and U-18, bingo extravaganza, sheep and cattle shows, sheepdog trials, vintage rally and threshing, jiving workshop and a family sports and fun day and a craft fair.
* Mon, July 21 – Sperrin Ramble
Fancy a relaxing ramble through the picturesque setting of the rolling hills of the Sperrins? Then come along on Monday and join us as we take a walk in the scenic Sperrins. The route is a six mile circular walk, suitable for all ages and is moderate level. All walkers are required to register at Glenelly House at 6.30pm. There will be no fee but donations towards The Children of Chernobyl will be greatly appreciated
Tuesday, July 22 – Party Disco
The disco will be held in The Dome on Tuesday with U-11s invited from 7.30pm to 9pm, Under 18s from 9.30pm to 12 midnight. Alcohol is strictly prohibited, with a mineral bar only.
Wednesday, July 23 – Bingo
Try your luck in the Bingo Extravaganza in the evening. Cash prizes up to the value of £3,500.
Thursday, July 24 – Mike Denver
If it's great country music you're after then don't miss one of the highlights of the festival – Mike Denver on stage in The Dome at 8pm on Thursday night, as part of a 34 day national concert tour.
Friday, July 25 – Sheep & Cattle
On Friday and Saturday, Glenelly Sheep Dog Society presents a Sheep and Cattle Show and Dog Trials to commemorate the 75th Annual Show. Entries can be emailed to cloughroan@hotmailcom by Monday, July 14.
Friday, July 25 – More Power to Your Elbow
Friday is a night you just can't miss, a disco followed by More Power to Your Elbow in The Dome. Their hits include Trip to Tipp and Back to Tyrone, which has become an anthem in this county.
Sat, July 26 – Sheepdog Trials
Sheepdog trials will take place in Bertie Campbell's field, Plumbridge. The first trial gets under way at 9.30am on Saturday morning.
Jiving Workshop
If you want to learn how to jive, brush up on old skills or become an expert, then come along to the Parochial Hall on Saturday at 2pm.
Vintage and Threshing Rally
At 1pm on Saturday there is a Vintage Rally and a day of threshing with a barbeque in the village. Come along whether you are a vintage car or tractor enthusiast or if you would just like to meet up and have a look at something from yesteryears! All donations at the event go to The Foyle Hospice and The Order of Malta.
The hot air balloon will also arrive on Saturday evening.
The Miracles
The climax of Saturday evening – disco by Party Boyz, followed by the return of The Miracles to the Dome.
Sunday 27th July
Plumbridge will be buzzing in the afternoon for the Family Fun Day. There are events to suit everyone.
Tom Sweeney
The highlight of the day must surely be the appearance of the children's entertainer Tom Sweeney. A teddy bears picnic for the children will follow.
Family Sports and Fun Day
Other events include amusements, hot air balloon, Sumo, fancy dress, children's races, gladiator game, fire breathing, fire juggling, giraffe unicycle, clay pigeon, bouncy castle, giant slide, assault course, penalty shoot out, rodeo bull challenge, bottle walking, football blitzes, guess the weight, face painting, drive the nail, circus workshops cake stands ,craft stalls, bottle stalls, and many other things besides.
Sunday, July 27 – Closing Dance
Back by popular demand, Jokers Wild on stage on Sunday night. Playing support will be the Omagh rock band Colenso Parade. An electric night not to be missed. Colenso Parade is also performing at the Glasgowbury Music Festival.
