While the end of summer edges ever closer, the Fingal community still has an opportunity to make the most of the warmer weather as the Balbriggan Beach Festival gets underway this weekend.
To be held on Sunday 18th of August, this year’s fest will once again transform the bustling beachfront into a hub of sports, family fun, yoga, live music, food stalls and so much more. This free-to-attend festival – organised by the Fingal Sports Office – kicks off from midday with Ireland’s youngest town welcoming locals and visitors alike to soak up the sun and enjoy an action-packed day of events.
Local clubs and organisations, including O’Dwyers GAA, Balbriggan Volleyball Club, Fingal Rowing Club, and Olympic Handball Ireland, will be hosting thrilling come and try sessions. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a curious beginner, there’s an opportunity for everyone to get involved and have fun. In addition to the sports sessions, visitors can look forward to classic beach activities such as Tug of War, challenging Obstacle Courses, Kite Making, and inflatable targets. For those looking to get into the rhythm, a drumming session hosted by the Balbriggan’s Institute of Music and Song will keep the energy high and the beats flowing.
The festival will also feature an Information Village where local clubs and community groups will be on hand to share information about their activities and the great work being done in the town. It’s an opportunity to learn more about what’s available in Balbriggan and to join community members.
On the main stage there is a dynamic lineup of live performances and fitness sessions to suit all levels. Fitness instructors such as Ciuin Wellness, Move with Charlotte, Pilar Lokko Dance Fitness, and Seanie Smyth from MindYourself365 will lead engaging fitness sessions that are sure to get everyone moving.
Festival-goers will also be able to enjoy performances by local bands and groups in between fitness sessions, with the likes of Toy Show favourite DJ Calum Kieran taking to the stage to energise the crowd and support the vibrant Colour Dash, which will fill the beach with colour and sound.
The day will culminate in a high-energy set from SPIN 1038 DJ Marty Guilfoyle, who will also serve as the MC for the day, ensuring the festival runs smoothly and keeps guests entertained from start to finish.
Cllr Corina Johnston, who will be Acting Mayor of Fingal on the day, says: ‘We are lucky to live next to such a great place of leisure as Balbriggan beach offers us. The annual Balbriggan Beach Festival is special for getting people together from right across the local community, and encourages everyone to give a new activity a go in a fun setting. There’s also an opportunity for people to get more involved with clubs in the area and learn about what’s on offer all year round.”