Kinsale Regatta will again have a range of activities, on land and sea, for people of all ages and abilities. Set in one of Ireland’s most spectacular harbours the oldest Regatta in Ireland is a fun packed week, with many land-based events in addition to the traditional water activities – from ocean yachts to mixed dingy racing, swim around Sandycove Island, and children’s sailing. There is also a new Sailability Sailing competition this year.
This year Kinsale Regatta Festival features a spectacular Fire Works Display on Sunday night, followed by the Water Carnival on Monday, which includes the popular ‘Greasy Pole’ event activities such as Barrel Rolling – with great prizes.
Friday August 1st kicks off with the Official Opening and the Belgooly Road Race; with street entertainment, live music, face painting and balloons for the spectators. A busy 2014 Regatta schedule also includes Bands Recitals, visit from the Courtmacsherry Lifeboat, Kinsale & Dock Yawl Rowing Regatta under coastal rowing association rule; Fancy Dress Parade, Boules, children’s canoeing and the Kinsale RNLI Lifeboat Station will again host visitors from 1.30pm on Sunday the 3rd of August and all are welcome.
The annual Emigrants Welcome Home Reception will be on Tuesday August 5th and it is a great opportunity to catch up with friends and family, share news, views and socialise. Previous years brought visitors from as far away as New Zealand, USA, Canada, Japan and Dublin... This year the event will be held at the Bowling Green in front of the Town Hall.
Live bands playing nightly at the Plaza Stage, on Short Quay, include, The Weavers, Michael Ahern & Friend, Leamo & Friends.
With its picturesque, historical streets, gourmet restaurants, wonderful harbour and welcoming outlook, Kinsale is the perfect setting for the 2014 Regatta Festival whether you choose to be active and participate or relax and observe.
Pictured at the launch of the 2014 Kinsale Regatta are chairman Teddy McNamara and County Mayor Alan Coleman with the Regatta Committee. The festival runs from August 1st to August 9th.
Picture. John Allen
