Mayflower Committee cancels controversial Mise Éire festival

The committee of the Mayflower community centre in Drumshanbo has cancelled the Míse Éire festival, which was set to be held in August.

The event was billed as a music and folk festival for “those who cherish Irish culture, heritage, and are united in celebrating our shared values.” However, it has received criticism due to the views of some of the scheduled speakers.

“On behalf of Mayflower Community Centre CLG, we regretfully wish to inform the public that the upcoming ‘Mise Éire’ festival, due to be held on 23rd August 2025, will NOT be hosted at the Mayflower Community Centre," the Mayflower said in a Facebook post announcing the cancellation.

READ MORE: Seamus O’Rourke and Saw Doctors star among new signatures of letter against Leitrim ‘far right’ festival, LARAF

Adding: "This was due to terms and conditions not being met by the organisers."

The festival has been a point of controversy with a petition, receiving 260 signatures on the main street of Drumshanbo, and a letter, signed by over 550 musicians, against the festival being sent to the committee over the last week.

Cllr Brendan Barry and a member of the Mayflower Community Committee, highlighted the community and inclusive nature of the venue.

“This event has caused massive division already, and it hasn't taken place at all yet, and that is very regrettable. And in my opinion, that alone shows the possible division and fear and hate that it could have caused had it went ahead,” said the Cllr, who has expressed the view that the festival never should have been booked in the first place.

READ MORE: Black Paddy, Cattle & Craic - All the action from Cloone Show