Seachtain na Gaeilge Celebrations Underway
‘Seachtain na Gaeilge’, the annual celebration of the Irish language, has been launched in Mid Ulster by the Deputy Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Denise Johnston at The Burnavon Theatre, Cookstown.
Seachtain na Gaeilge is a national and international Language festival which takes place every year and this year, the Mid Ulster events, happening throughout the month of March include historical talks, music and entertainment to suit all ages.
The festival encourages everyone to give Irish a go and to learn more about the rich Gaelic heritage that’s all around.
Launching the 2026 programme, Deputy Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Denise Johnston said,
“Seachtain na Gaeilge offers a welcoming and inclusive opportunity for the local community to connect with and celebrate the Irish language. I encourage everyone to take part in the wide range of events happening across the district, whether you are an absolute beginner, a fluent speaker or just are interested in learning anther language, there’s an event for you.”
The launch featured a short talk on “Presbyterians and the Irish Language” by the Rev. Jim Stothers, who served as a Presbyterian minister in Counties Down, Donegal and Antrim, retiring in 2020 but still working part time in PCI Assembly Buildings; and performances from acclaimed local harper and singer Edward Gribben.
During the month of March, events to suit all ages and stages of proficiency take place throughout the district.
On Thursday (5 March) there will be a talk by Gael Linn CEO Réamonn Ó Ciaráin on ‘The Life & Works of George AE Russell’ in The Burnavon, Cookstown, as well as a talk on ‘The O’Neill Dynasty’ by Dr Brian Lacey in Square Box, Ranfurly House on Thursday night. Seachtain na Gaeilge will conclude locally on Sunday 29 March with a bilingual walk on Carntogher Mountain.
Other events include an exhibition 'Candle of Vision' by Dara Vallely, featuring 24 stunning paintings inspired by the mystical masterpiece by George AE Russell in the Burnavon, Cookstown from Monday 2 – Tuesday 31 March; a bilingual short comedy by Aisteoirí Charn Tóchair on Saturday 14th March on Hill of The O’Neill & Ranfurly House, Dungannon, an Irish Language Conversation Circle in Dungannon Library (7 March); and cultural events in Pomeroy (13 March) and at Todd’s Leap (18 March).
For a comprehensive list of events throughout March, visit Gaeilge Lár Uladh or contact the Council’s Irish Language Officers by emailing gaeilge@midulstercouncil.org or telephoning 03000 132 132.