Communities in Offaly join forces to celebrate Bealtaine 2016

Age & Opportunity is delighted to announce an exciting line-up of County Offaly-based events which will take place during the month of May as part of Bealtaine 2016, Ireland’s annual festival of creativity as we age. Now in its 21st year, Bealtaine continues to be embraced by the Offaly community with many arts and cultural events organised by local libraries, arts centres, care settings, galleries, active retirement groups and community groups across the county.

Last year, over 125,000 people across Ireland participated in Bealtaine, making it one of the most important cultural events in the national arts calendar. This year, the festival commemorates 100 years since the birth of modern Ireland by exploring the theme of Ireland’s Iconic First Citizens. With over 600 events taking place across the country including a mix of musical, visual arts, literature and theatre, there is definitely something for everyone in Bealtaine 2016.

Highlights from Bealtaine 2016 in Offaly include:

• In Offaly Bealtaine will be celebrated with art exhibitions and Boccia events. The B.L.C Developments Active Age Group will run art classes and display the paintings created at an art exhibition on 21 May. While on the 23rd Maythey will be inviting all other Active Retirement Groups to join them for Boccia tournament.
• At the St Rynaghs College of Further Education Main Street Bangher there will be an evening of music, song and dance with refreshments on the 27th May.
• New events are being to the Bealtaine programme all the time, please visit: http://bealtaine.com/bealtaine-2016/programme/listing/Offaly

Speaking today, Karen Smyth, CEO of Age & Opportunity said, “Yet again we are thrilled by the passion and commitment that the Offaly community brings to Bealtaine this year. With more events taking place across the country than ever before, we are delighted that the festival continues to grow from strength to strength both in Offaly and nationwide. It is with the support of our local partners that Bealtaine 2016 can successfully deliver its mission which is to support our older artists and to provide more opportunities for people of all ages to come together to celebrate the arts and become creative.”

For more information please go to www.bealtaine.com