Makes you even prouder to be Irish.
There's no denying that Drogheda was the place to be this week for anyone that loves trad music because the Fleadh Cheoil 2018 was in full swing and in full voice.
It is expected that over 400,000 people will have visited Drogheda by the time the event comes to a close and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar was just one of the many people that made the trip to Louth to take in the festival.
https://twitter.com/campaignforleo/status/1030843939920728064
A massive amount of praise should go t Louth County Council, Comhaltas and the Fleadh organising committee along with every single volunteer, Gardaí and homeowner because there's such a positive vibe on the streets of Drogheda with music heard everywhere and people enjoying themselves.
As we've previously seen, even the
Garda are joining in with the festivities and this jovial mood has spread throughout the streets with dancing, singing, and live music sessions happening everywhere.
There has even been gigs in banks and Gardaí playing the banjo.
https://twitter.com/fleadhcheoil/status/1030839000192503809
https://twitter.com/LiamHarbison/status/1030831689600253958
https://twitter.com/fleadhcheoil/status/1030783482614702080
On this note, the entire town came together for a massive singalong to the trad classic, Dirty Old Town.
Written by Ewan MacColl in 1949 and immortalised by the Dubliners, the song has a beloved status for Irish people because it's an iconic piece of our musical history and heritage.
Only a few songs have the wonderful ability to bring everyone together like this and that's what trad does best, bring people together.
In terms of the talented musicians on show, you're looking at Pat Byrne, The Carolan Brothers, Mick & Rita Mc, Rapscallion and friends.
Take a look.
