That Beats Banagher Festival returns later this month
A wide array of heritage, craftmanship and family fun is in store when the popular That Beats Banagher Festival returns from Friday, July 24 to Sunday, July 26.
Celebrating its 13th year, the festival showcases Ireland's rich craft traditions while welcoming visitors from across the country to experience one of the midlands' most unique summer events.
The Barrack Yard will once again become the centre of activity as 'Forged in Ireland' brings together some of Ireland's leading blacksmiths, bladesmiths and knifemakers.
Visitors can enjoy live forging demonstrations, the fast-paced 'Battle of the Blacksmiths' chopping competition and Sunday's Golden Anvil Challenge, where competitors battle for the coveted blacksmithing title.
Jamie Smith will also lead a specialist bladesmithing workshop on the Friday, giving participants an opportunity to forge their own blade while learning the traditional techniques and science behind heat treating.
Returning after last year's demonstrations, Keith Armitage and the Shannon Iron Smelters will again recreate the ancient process of iron production when using traditional clay furnaces and locally sourced iron ore. These demonstrations celebrate Banagher's historic connection with ironworking and allow visitors to witness one of humanity's oldest technologies brought to life.
The festival also features an exceptional line-up of traditional craftspeople from across Ireland. Michelle Bell will host hands-on clay workshops where participants, families and children can create their own handcrafted keepsakes using traditional techniques.
Lorcan Dunne, an experienced stone carver and sculptor, will demonstrate the precision and artistry involved in transforming Irish limestone into beautiful carved works.
Visitors can also meet Michael Potterton, of Fiach Rua Timbercraft, who will showcase traditional woodworking, axe work and the ancient craft of Ogham carving, while Padraig Larkin will demonstrate traditional Irish straw craft using time-honoured techniques. Traditional basket maker Barry Noyce will complete the artisan village with demonstrations of willow weaving and basket making.
The festival is designed to be enjoyed by all ages. Young makers can experience the excitement of metalworking in the new 'Junior Blacksmith Corner', where the Forged in Ireland team introduces children to the basics of cold forging in a safe and engaging environment.
History also plays a central role in the weekend's programme. Local historian James Scully will lead the annual heritage walk, exploring Fort Eliza, the Bridge Barracks and the history of Banagher Bridge, while also hosting a pop-up bookshop celebrating local heritage.
Family favourites also return, including the outdoor family cinema night (weather permitting) in Banagher Park on the Saturday evening.
The festival is funded by Offaly Local Development Company through the Leader Rural Development Programme.
For programme updates and booking information, visit www.thatbeatsbangher.com or follow @That Beats Banagher on social media.