Drumshanbo comes alive with magic and tradition at the Mummers’ Parade

The streets of Drumshanbo were transformed into a vibrant tapestry of music, dance, and tradition as the town hosted the much-anticipated Mummers’ Parade. Organized by the Sowing the Seed project, the event celebrated the rich heritage of mumming while fostering a deep sense of community and creativity.

Participants and spectators travelled from across Ireland and beyond to join the festivities. The parade was a testament to the enduring appeal of this traditional art form, where masked performers and musicians brought storytelling and celebration to life.

Edwina Guckian, a key organizer, reflected on the magic of the evening, saying, “What a special night for a community of seed sowers and mummers. The Mummers’ Parade in Drumshanbo last night was magic! Thank you to every one of you that came and joined us in Leitrim from all corners of Ireland and beyond. We danced the night away at The Mummers’ Join to the Tulla Céilí Band, celebrating the end of another year of growing, harvesting, creating, mumming and bringing communities together. Míle buíochas!”

The evening culminated in an unforgettable céilí, with attendees dancing to the music of the renowned Tulla Céilí Band. The joyful atmosphere highlighted the close of another year filled with growing, harvesting, creating, and connecting communities through the shared spirit of cultural expression.

The event was supported by Creative Ireland, the Arts Council/An Chomhairle Ealaíon, Áirc Damhsa Culture Club, and the Leitrim Arts Office. Photographer Robert Stothard captured the night’s magic, preserving the spirit of the celebration for all to cherish.

The artists’ research highlights that while some of these traditions remain alive in Leitrim today, others exist only as memories preserved by older generations. Working with communities across the county, the artists are on a mission to revive these rich customs and explore modern applications for straw-based traditions, ensuring their relevance in contemporary times.

For more information on the Sowing the Seed project and its efforts to preserve and promote cultural traditions, visit www.sowingtheseedproject.com.