#lighthouse – A global gathering of Lighthouse Keepers and enthusiasts will take place at the world's oldest lighthouse at Hook Head next weekend, September 13 to 15 and organiser's have today unveiled a fun filled programme of free events to keep families entertained.
Sunday, September 15 has been declared 'Sunday Fun Day' at the historic lighthouse, according to the manager Ann Waters everyone is invited to enjoy lots of entertainment. "Sunday is the day for free festival fun; we are looking forward to welcoming everyone to enjoy lots of fun entertainment, join in the singing of Sea Shanties with the Hooks and Crooks and enjoy the stiltwalkers and entertainers from Bui Bolg, the Claoimh Medieval Knights, games, face painting and lots more."
Sunday is the final day of the first gathering of Lighthouse keepers; festivities commence on Friday afternoon with a free open evening. Among those in attendance will be The Honourable Loyola Hearn, Canadian Ambassador to Ireland, Yvonne Shields, CEO of the Commissioners of Irish Lights and Larry O'Brien, Chair of Hook Heritage. Entertainment will be provided by the Wexford Male Voice Choir and soprano Emma Rochford.
On Saturday guests are invited to the Lighthouse Symposium 'If Lighthouses Could talk!' which will be hosted by former RTE News Anchor and Wexfordwoman Anne Doyle. Professor Kevin Whelan will offer an illustrated talk on Ireland in the Atlantic world focusing on mariners, merchants, migrants and light-keepers. Other speakers include guests from the Northern Lighthouse Board of Scotland and representatives from the Commissioners of Irish Lights and Newfoundland. The last principal Lighthouse Keeper and current Attendant at Hook Head Lighthouse, Tux Tweedy will attend, as well as several other former Lighthouse Keepers.
The weekend's highlight takes place on Saturday evening with drinks reception to be hosted in the historic cobbled yard at Hook Lighthouse with entertainment by Danescastle Traditional Irish Music Group and the Doyle Academy of Irish Dance. This will be followed by a Seafood Buffet and after-dinner entertainment provided by the Kennedy Sisters and traditional Irish music from Saolta. A fireworks display over the ancient landmark will bring this memorable evening to a spectacular close.
The global gathering of Lighthouse Keepers is being hosted in co-operation with the commissioners of Irish Lights and on behalf of past lighthouse keepers of Hook Lighthouse For further details see hookheritage.ie
