For a week in August the village of Clonmany in Donegal is the country music capital of Ireland.
Clonmany, a small village on the Inishowen peninsula in County Donegal hosts one of the top festivals in Ireland for country music. Over eight nights, two major country artists perform to thousands of country music fans in the village square. Tickets are 5 euro a head and the majority of the proceeds go back into the community.
The line-up for the 51st Clonmany Festival includes performers such as Nathan Carter, Declan Nearney, Lisa McHugh, Mike Denver, and Cliona Hagan. The main attraction is Derek Ryan who has worked hard to gain his loyal supporters.
Hugo Boyce has helped organise the Clonmany Festival since the event began. The festival is now run by 110 volunteers and there is a committee of 30 people. Only the entertainers are paid,
It’s not about making money, it’s about the community.
At the beginning the Clonmany Festival was a small set up with local bands but there is
Always a great atmosphere and they come from everywhere.
There is a noticeable number of young country music fans happily jiving and line dancing in the village square.
Just came here to jive and have some fun.
The revival in country music, particularly among younger fans could be seen as a reaction to current music trends. One woman believes it is because country music has soul.
Many in Clonmany have taken time off work to attend the festival for the full week, declaring it the,
Best festival in the whole of Ireland.
The 51st Clonmany Festival took place from 5-12 August 2018.
A 'Drivetime' report broadcast on 13 August 2018. The presenter is Sarah McInerney. The reporter is Barry Lenihan.
