The much-loved June Bank Holiday festival, Street Rhythms, is set to return to Enniscorthy this weekend, marking its 18th consecutive year as a vibrant celebration of music, dance, storytelling, and community spirit in the heart of Wexford.
The festival kicks off on Saturday with a lively programme designed to engage all ages. Early activities include Baby Bop for toddlers and an opportunity to meet beloved Disney and cartoon characters. A puppet show will entertain younger attendees, complemented by free face painting to immerse families in the festive atmosphere. Highlighting the day is the Alice and the Mad Hatter Magic Show, promising a captivating blend of wonder and imagination in the Market Square.
Festival organiser Sue Kavanagh emphasized the event’s strong focus on showcasing local talent and community groups.
“This festival has always been about celebrating our local arts and culture. We are thrilled to once again welcome Martina Leacy’s renowned dance group, a cornerstone of the festival since it began. Their performances are always exceptional and a highlight for audiences. Additionally, the Rathnure Panto brings together an inspiring range of performers across all ages to deliver a spectacular show every year,” Kavanagh said.
Other local groups set to feature include Aspire Gymnastics, Gavin McGuinness’s hip-hop ensemble, the Monageer Stompers, Katelyn Phillipin’s dance troupe, Yankee Dance Studios, and traditional Irish music group Le Cheile. Visitors are encouraged to join Saturday afternoon’s events in Market Square to support these diverse performers.
Beyond entertainment, the festival offers a rich selection of activities under the banner ‘Craft in Motion,’ featuring street-wide craft workshops, children’s games, and an array of food and craft stalls, including jewellery vendors and a children’s flea market.
Adding a creative twist this year, the Enniscorthy Men’s Shed will facilitate hands-on workshops where participants can build and paint bird boxes, fairy doors, and bee hotels. These crafts are free to make, paint, and take home, all guided by the expert Men’s Shed team.
Environmental awareness will also be a key theme throughout the weekend. A special Biodiversity section will commence with a guided walk focused on local swift populations. Throughout the day, the castle will host educational talks covering topics such as “Soil to Society,” “The Bee and the Plant,” and “The Food Health Crisis.” These sessions aim to deepen public understanding of the critical role biodiversity plays in sustaining the environment.
Sunday promises an imaginative twist with a theatrical event featuring Morgana the Witch, who attempts to disrupt the festival’s fairytales, music, and dancing. Children dressed as princesses and superheroes are invited to participate in the Fairytale Trail — a clue-based adventure designed to help banish Morgana and restore the festival’s magic.
The Market Square will continue to buzz on Sunday with live performances by folk bands Yellow Bellows and Bellogs, alongside dynamic dance showcases by Dhiya Mary Rajesh and Doctors Brains. The weekend’s environmental talks and craft workshops will also continue, rounding out a diverse and engaging programme for all attendees.
Street Rhythms remains a flagship community event for Enniscorthy, offering a rich tapestry of culture, creativity, and education for residents and visitors alike.
