WITH people being encouraged to travel domestically during this period, much focus has gone on to destinations for travel while facing restrictions.
The challenge has seen many in the Irish community switch their normal visits to Ireland for a ‘staycation’ in which they make the most of destinations within the UK—but already there will be many planning a trip to Coventry next year as well.
The city was selected as the host of the 2021 Fleadh, and is expected to welcome thousands from across the UK and Ireland for a feast of Irish music, song and dance.
A casualty of the coronavirus, the 2020 edition was celebrated online in a Virtual Fleadh, but in 2021 normal service will return and the Irish community from all corners of Britain will flock to the midlands for the annual event.
With winners going on to compete in the Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann, the keenly contested competition draws the best musicians on these shores, but with a lively series of events associated with the Fleadh many more will come along for the the chance to enjoy the best of Irish culture.
Though next summer will see many planning to visit Ireland, for others the chance to spend time among the Irish music community as they descend on Coventry will also see them planning another ‘staycation’ in 2021.
“As Irish people we know that culture is really important,” Marian Dywer, Chair of the Midlands Region of Comhaltas said. “It gives us perspective of live and massively enriches lives.
“Coventry is hosting the UK City of Culture in 2021 and are now getting ready to deliver an ambitious legacy for the city, the region and its communities. Coventry is a lovely, modern, diverse City which is reimagining the role culture can play in bringing people together.
“Comhaltas have been working with the city to establish how the All Britain Fleadh can further enhance the city’s ambitions to promote the diversity of culture in the city and encourage everyone to participate in the creative life of their city and region.”
Organisers hope that the event will not only provide competition for the musicians, but also open up Irish culture to locals and visitors alike through events at a range of venues throughout the festival, which will take place from June 25-27 next year.
