Over the summer Irish musicians take part in competitions in various counties and regions. The county Fleadh and provincial Fleadh winners go forward to compete at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann held in August in a selected town.
The first Fleadh Cheoil was held in Mullingar in 1951 and was attended by Irish traditional musicians and a small group of followers of Irish traditional music. The Fleadh Cheoil was developed to promote traditional music as its popularity at the time was in decline. Today Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, organised and promoted by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, brings over 350,000 people to the town chose to host the event.
This year the Fleadh Cheoil takes place in Sligo (August 9-16) when over 10,000 competitors will perform in various competitions. (The 2016 Fleadh Cheoil will be held in Ennis, Co Clare).
Many of the people taking part in competitions come from all over the world and many have "neither ancestral nor geographical links" to Ireland, (Remarks at Sligo Fleadh 2014 by President of Ireland Michael D Higgins) but share a kinship with Irish tradition and Irish music. The Festival is not just about competitions, but includes various other cultural events and impromptu music sessions on the street, in pubs and other venues.
deBlaca Jewellery is designed and made in Ireland. Its design is inspired by Irish tradition, culture and landscape. "You Have My Heart" collection inspired by Irish myth has been interpreted by some customers as 'Dancing Hearts". Ideal accessories to wear at the Fleadh Cheoil . "My Lucky Irish Shamrock" may bring you luck in the competitions or be a nice souvenir to take back from Ireland.
