Photo: Michael Hussey (YoughalOnline.com)

Youghal is gearing up to host the country’s largest Medieval Fun Event on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th August 2008 in the stunning surrounds of St. Mary’s Historic Gardens, as part of The Irish Walled Towns Network celebrations of National Heritage Week.

Youghal’s Municipal Heritage Committee – the organisers behind the event, are looking to build on the unprecedented success of the inaugural event in 2007 which attracted in excess of 6,000 visitors to the historic town. As a result, celebrations will kick off on Saturday evening 23rd August with a free live open air concert by ‘Natural Gas’ in the surrounds of St. Mary’s Gardens, Youghal.

Even more excitement and fun for all the family are promised at this year’s major free event which is this year being covered by RTE’s ‘Nationwide’ television show. A carefully planned collection of sights, sounds and spectacle is guaranteed.

Sunday’s events which begin at 12.00pm include a theatrical piece entitled ‘The Florence Newton Witch Trial Re-Enactment, composed by local historian Kieran Groeger, and directed by Ms. Teresa Cudlip.
With murders, treason, public trials and punishment – by time spent in stocks; – this production is guaranteed to bring passion, colour and excitement to an action-packed day.

UCC Medieval and Renaissance Society will demonstrate their fighting skills in a carefully choreographed ‘battle siege re-enactment. Visitors will be become immersed in medieval mayhem, as the group perform a series of archery displays, cookery displays and many other medieval events.

Children of all ages can enter the ‘Kids Kingdom’ for a line-up of events that is sure to excite and enthral little ones throughout the day. Fun-packed hours will be spent face-painting, magic shows, bouncing castles, wizards and stilt walkers, together with everyone’s favourite, Prince August Toy Soldier Factory.
Situated in the ‘Orchard’ of the Garden, the ‘Petting Zoo’ will offer a “hands on” petting and feeding of domestic and exotic animals and birds.
Visitors will have a chance to savour the delights of the extensive range of stalls on ‘Maid Marion’s Food & Craft Fair, – hosted by local traders and producers. The vibrant friendly atmosphere will create a pleasurable experience while browsing some of the finest examples of Art, Craft and Food.

A live music spectacle with performances by local bands and artists on stage throughout the day will be sure to add to the already unique and electric atmosphere, while competition is sure to be fierce in the ‘Medieval Fancy Dress Competition’ for all the family!

Youghal Medieval Fun Day takes place in St. Mary’s Garden’s, Emmet Place, Youghal, Saturday & Sunday 23rd & 24th August 2008. Gates open at 4.00pm on Saturday for free concert. Sunday’s events run from 12.00 pm – 6.00 pm. For further details contact: Youghal’s Municipal Heritage Committee on: 024 – 20745 or log onto www.youghal.ie

Contact:
Aileen Ahern
Tourism & Marketing Development Officer,
Youghal
Tel: 0861703128/ 024 93905

Please click on image below to start slideshow