Old Fort Quarter Festival set to bring town's heritage to life

The Old Fort Quarter Festival is rooted in history, heritage culture and there are lots of fun events to bring all of this to life this week in Portlaoise.

To give a background to the history of the Old Fort Quarter and discuss the conservation process, Conservation Architect Richard McLoughlin will host a presentation ‘The History and Architecture of Fort Protector’ in partnership with the Laois Heritage Society on Thursday 22nd at 7pm in SS Peter and Paul’s Parish Centre. 

The Festival also features living history exhibits.

The organisers say this will give you a chance to step into the past with captivating reenactments, historical displays, and interactive exhibits that bring history to life.

 They promise that you'll be able to engage with knowledgeable experts who will take you on a tour of significant moments from our past. 

The famous Portlaoise Plane will be on display in the Granary Store, book in for a walking tour to find out more about the history of this famous plane. 

Raven Haven Aviaries will have the ravens from the Vikings show and Norsemen show on display along with other birds of prey. 

The Golden Raven Viking group will showcase medieval battles while others will showcase medieval cookery and textile displays.

 Renowned local historian and heritage consultants Teddy Fennelly and Michael Parsons will lead walking heritage tours of the Old Fort with a stop at the famous Portlaoise Plane on  June 24th and 25th. Booking through Eventbrite.ie

People are also invited to explore the Artisan Village where skilled craftsmen such as weavers from Vikings Athy and craftswomen demonstrate traditional arts and crafts and more. Discover unique handmade treasures and even try your hand at some ancient techniques. 

Cultural Performances are also a feature.

“Be enthralled by a diverse lineup of cultural performances, featuring music, dance, and theatrical acts that showcase the region's rich cultural heritage,” say the organisers.

 This features traditional Irish dancers with the Lynam School of Dance, music from local Laois Comhaltas groups, modern pop music to soul-stirring melodies.

“There will be something to delight every spectator,” say the organisers. 

There will be traditional bee-keepers, drumming circles, pipers and more all partaking in activities for you to enjoy and interact. 

Art exhibitions will take place in the Gallery of The Dunamaise Theatre.

Also, be sure to stop by and have a browse and as you wander through the historic quarter watch out for the wonderful art of Eoin Coveney which will be on display at the railings of the Laois Music Centre. 

Finally, you can indulge your taste buds with an array of treats from local food vendors. A selection of craft and market stalls will line Main Street  for you to have a wander and purchase some local handmade wares. 

For more information and a full list of events from Thursday, June 22 to Saturday June 25, you can visit the festial website at www.oldfortquarter.com or follow us on Old Fort Quarter on Social Media.