Beloved Laois traditional mountain festival set to rise again

A much loved traditional Laois field day has been revived this summer, in a surprise announcement.

The Rosenallis Festival of the Mountain is returning with a fresh outlook and a vintage twist, thanks to a revived effort by the local community. 

After a five-year hiatus, the much-cherished festival is making a grand comeback to the Slieve Bloom Mountains, organised jointly by the Rosenallis Development Association and the Rosenallis and District Vintage and Classic Club.

The festival was a staple in the community since 1962, offering traditional competitions and games with the highlight being the Queen of the Mountain. It holds a special place in the hearts of locals and welcomed many famous faces and music acts throughout its 61-year history.

However waning interest and a lack of volunteers brought it to an end in 2018.

Now the Rosenallis and District Vintage and Classic Club has stepped in, bringing their expertise to the table to bring the festival back to life.

Founded in 2019 by a passionate group of vintage enthusiasts, the Rosenallis and District Vintage and Classic Club has been organising events throughout the year, benefiting local charities.

Recognising the importance of preserving local traditions, they decided to revive The Festival of the Mountain, bringing an new aspect by incorporating their passion for classic vehicles and old ways.

With the newly formed partnership, the event will now be known as the Rosenallis Festival of the Mountain and Vintage Rally.

It takes place on Sunday, August 20, 2023 at the Festival Field in Rosenallis, and promises a delightful array of attractions for all ages.

There will be vintage and classic vehicle exhibits, showcasing an impressive collection of tractors, cars, lorries, engines, motorcycles and auto-jumble. There will also be arts and craft stalls brimming with local talent, as the festival aims to cater to a wide range of interests.

Visitors can look forward to music, a captivating dog show, bread, butter, and pancake making sessions, children's activities, and a mouthwatering spit-roast pork and colcannon feast cooked live on the field along with delicious food stalls.

"We are thrilled to unveil the Rosenallis Festival of the Mountain and Vintage Rally, which promises to rekindle the spirit of the event's earlier years while incorporating a vintage flair. We hope that this revitalised event will serve as a testament to the deep-rooted history and communal spirit that has characterised Rosenallis for generations," the club say.

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Admission to the festival will be €10 for adults, with children granted free entry. All proceeds from the event will go toward supporting local initiatives and charities, ensuring that the festival's positive impact extends far beyond a single day of festivities.

So mark your calendars and join the residents of Rosenallis and beyond as they come together to relive the past, embrace the present, and celebrate the cherished traditions that have shaped their community. 

For further information, visit their Facebook pages or contact the Rosenallis Development Association or the Rosenallis and District Vintage and Classic Club at (085 184 7390 - Daniel) (087 213 7494 - Ger) (087 985 5112 - Seamus) (085 101 8422 - Enda)