Second Shane MacGowan music festival to be held in Kilbarron in September

A SECOND music festival, inspired by the genius of local legend Shane MacGowan, will take place in Kilbarron this September.
It will once again be called The Broad Majestic Shannon Music Festival, a name which was inspired by one of MacGowan’s songs.
MacGowan’s funeral took place in December 2023 in St Mary of the Rosary Church in Nenagh. The funeral was a combination of sadness and celebration, with music playing a prominent role in honouring the late Pogues frontman. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, fellow musicians, and Irish President Michael D. Higgins. Also in attendance were Johnny Depp, Bono, Bob Geldof and Nick Cave.
Last October a magnificent mural in the musician’s honour was officially unveiled in Emmet Place Nenagh, drawing praise and admiration from many. Shane’s mother came from Nenagh and the singer/songwriter retained a deep affection for the town and the area throughout his life, often visiting. He spent many summer holidays in the village of Kilbarron, therefore it was appropriate to hold the music festival last August in the village, which featured music, trad sessions, and crossroads dancing. It was organised by Kilbarron Development Association.
Cllr J.P. O’Meara told the June meeting of Nenagh MD that he was very pleased to hear that the Kilbarron festival will be held again this September. He said the singer/songwriter’s funeral was a very special occasion in Nenagh. “It felt like it was probably Shane’s parting gift to the town. I think the mural is also fantastic, a wonderful addition to the town’s life. Shane’s legacy will live on for a long time. I can see people travelling in significant numbers and travelling from all over the world to the Kilbarron festival.”