Pictures: Community out in force for Summer Fest in Thomastown! Spot anyone you know?

People young and old, those new to the community, and long time residents, turned out in force in Thomastown recently for a special event.

Rural towns in Ireland face many issues, such as closing businesses, social isolation, and a feeling of disconnection to name a few. In an effort to address some of these issues and also acknowledging the growing number of new residents in the town, Thomastown Community Network (TCN) is promoting greater engagement through expanding its programme of community events.

People came for a relaxed evening of food and music at the Watergarden in the heart of the town. The outcome was way beyond TCN’s expectations for a first event.
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Turnout was phenomenal, and everyone enjoyed an evening filled with BBQ, gourmet pizza, ice cream, hot chocolate, coffee, and sweet treats from top local producers like Breagagh Valley Artisan Meats, Blásta Pizza, Truffle Fairy Chocolatier, Rockfield Ice Cream, and some salads and treats from Thomastown Country Market. The evening featured fantastic live music, which included Conor Graham’s African drumming group, who, together with renowned local singer musician, Caoimhe Kelly and musician Ben Walsh, set the vibe.

Organisers had advised that people bring their own drinks, a picnic rug or chair, and come ready to relax, eat, and mingle with neighbours — a strategy that proved a great success.

Thomastown Community Network had a kiosk with information leaflets providing information on what they do. They are always looking for new members to come along and bring their expertise to the group. A Monster Raffle was held thanks to the very generous contributions of so many local businesses in the town.
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Anyone who may wish to get further information or who may be considering joining the Network, is recommended to email Thomastowncommunity network@gmail.com and have a chat with one of the existing friendly volunteers. Meetings are typically held just four times per year.

Summerfest was not the only show in Thomastown this weekend, where an inaugural Biodiversity Film and Seminar took place over two nights. It highlighted ‘The Island Biodiversity Project’, which is currently underway in Thomastown, and for which additional information can be obtained from Thomastown Community River Trust.

Thomastown Concert Hall hosted ‘The New Vienna Mozart Trio’ as part of the Music in Kilkenny Concert Series. One of the next major events coming up will be Thomastown Creative Arts Festival (TCAF) running from August 8 to 17.