7 Hills Blues Festival

Welcome to the 9th 7 Hills Blues Festival

Get ready for a summer of blistering blues as Armagh’s iconic 7 hills blues fest returns for a ninth year, bringing worldclass talent to more than 20 venues and locations across the celebrated cathedral city.

Firmly established as one of the great blues and roots music events, it is set to be the jewel in the crown of a series of wonderful summer events across the region.

This year’s line-up promises another unmissable weekend of music and entertainment for all ages with over 60 free gigs across the City. Attracting thousands of locals and visitors from far and wide, the programme will complement a packed schedule of events designed to suit everyone. Festival highlights include Picnic in the Palace Park and BBQ n’ Blues at the Shambles Yard.

Whether visiting the city to shop, eat, drink or to see the sights, those bluesy tones won’t be far away. So get out and about and let’s get some blistering summer blues: best served chilled!!

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Festival Programme

Meet The Bands

The Blues Trek

Key Events

Festival Programme

If you have issues viewing the programme below click here to view PDF.

Meet The Bands

2ND DRAWER DOWN & COMPANY

Formed in 2016, 2nd Drawer Down & Company are a father and daughter combo who are joined by a group of singers and musicians from Armagh that specialise in acoustic music, unusual versions of classic rock and pop songs mixed up with blues, folk, country covers and originals.

4 SHUCK MEN

Local band 4 Shuck Men return to the 7 Hills with a mix of blues standards and original material all with their own twist. The cocktail of flavours rendered include harmonica and fiddle, adding sweet fizz to the pumping lead, rhythm, bass and drums. With rasping vocals and seventh heaven harmonies get ready to enjoy.

ALAN MCKELVEY

A regular on the Belfast music scene since the 1980’s, Alan McKelvey’s world class vocals and inspired guitar playing provide a unique blues rock experience in Northern Ireland. Seeking influence from blues greats like Gary Moore, Joe Cocker and BB King, Alan performs an extensive set of classic and modern Blues Rock in his own unique style.

ALLISON MCGRATH AND SOULANTICS

Allison creates in her own style a unique, soulful blend of blues/funk/folk/reggae. With two self-penned albums, ‘Overboard’ and ‘At Long last’ both well received by critics, some of those tracks are being played by Ralph McLean and Gerry Kelly BBC Radio Ulster as well as airplay worldwide. Performances will include a selection of original songs alongside some of her favourite covers.

BACKBONE BLUES

These lads have been playing together for over 35 years and are made up of the talented Karl Hughes on drums, Raymond McEvoy on vocals, Gareth Hughes on guitar and Ritchie McEvoy on bass. The permanent foursome is augmented by Steven Clarke on tenor saxophone as well as a variety of exceptional keyboard players. Many of the bands’ songs come from the pen of Ritchie with influences such as BB King, Muddy Waters, Rory Gallagher and Van Morrison.

BEN REEL BAND

Since his debut album `This Is The Movie’ back in 1999, Ben has reinvented himself from album to album, influenced by different styles of music from rock, soul, blues, alt folk/Americana, country & reggae, which fuses all these genres into a melting pot to create a great sound which has become his own and has seen him recently release his new album ‘Land of Escape’.

BLACKWOOD

Blackwood Blues rock band is a dynamic power trio featuring the inimitable styles of Sam Davidson lead guitarist and vocals, Lyn Mc Mullan on drums and Albert Mills on bass. Together they bring an exciting edge to classic blues, early taste numbers and Sam’s own originals. The guys have played in the UK and Europe having performed in Italy, France, England and throughout Ireland.

CLARA ROSE

A powerful voice that has been known to send shivers down spines and bring tears to the eye. Clara’s voice has been described as sounding like ‘an opera star running through her scales’ (Eamon Carr, In Dublin Magazine). Her recent album ‘The Offering’, is a collection that brings the listener on a journey through folk rock, blues, funk, soul and contemporary folk.

COLD PORTER

Featuring the amazing voice of Eilish McCaffrey, Cold Porter deliver a wide range of music spanning the decades and genres and their show is guaranteed to include something for all tastes. Expect anything from 60’s soul to 70’s funk blended with more contemporary pop and rock classics.

COPPERHEAD

Copperhead are a renowned classic rock and blues band with members hailing from counties Donegal, Tyrone and Derry. With founding member Francie O’Donnell on bass guitar and vocals, Paschal Lynch and Paddy Lennon on lead and rhythm guitar and vocals, and Charlie McCosker on drums.

COURTNAY AND THE DUKES

With influences including Etta James & Amy Winehouse, her vocals are enchanting. Courtnay’s performances range from intimate solo appearances to a funky soul and blues 3-piece band! They play a range from Marvin Gaye to a soulful take on more modern artists such as Beyoncé and Foo Fighters.

CROW BLACK CHICKEN

Since forming in 2009, Crow Black Chicken have earned back-pats aplenty for their dirty southern blues sound. This power trio of Christy O Hanlon (vocals, guitar), Stephen McGrath (bass) and Gev Barrett (drums, backing vocals) combine elements of folk, hard rock and the blues of bands like Gov’t Mule to create their own blues rock sound.

DAVID KING

David King is a Dublin blues singer with two successful LP’s to his name, current release Custodian (2018) and his iTunes top 10 release “Ruirteach Blues” (2015). David’s early influences range from Led Zeppelin and Cream to Dylan and Tim Buckley. The Delta and Chicago blues styles delivered with his unique blend of Irish soul offer up original vocal and guitar styles and create a back beat for the stories in his songs.

DD & THE DELTA BOYS

DD & the Delta Boys come from deep down in the misty swamplands of the Donegal delta. They are on a mission to touch, move and inspire audiences with their distinctive brand of Rhythm & Blues. Each of the musicians brings with them a love and passion for their instrument and when you put all of that together it cooks up to a damn fine foot-stomping brew that plays easy on the ear and is a thrill to experience live.

FREEDOM 35’S

A 4 piece organ driven instrumental funk/soul outfit from Co. Armagh. They have supported Sharon Jones and The Dap Kings, Graham Day and The Gaolers, The Strypes and Booker T. Jones. 2018 will see the release of their debut album. Catch their explosive live show this August!

GRAINNE DUFFY

Grainne Duffy’s music comprises a melodic mix of blues, soul and Americana influences. Having grown up in a large family in rural Ireland, having nothing much to do except expose herself to a wealth of music from country to rock, jazz to soul and of course blues music, her early musical education was earned playing the local circuit alongside her sisters in their family musical union.

JACKIE MCAULEY

Formerly of the famous ‘THEM’, alongside Van Morrison, Jackie’s musical career blossomed having performed with Lonnie Donegan, Fairport Convention and Rick Wakeman. This is an outstanding blues band of the highest calibre!

JAMES GRIT BAND

James has been on the blues and rock scene for over a decade playing in various blues festivals and bars around the province. He has also shared the stage and played alongside such music legends as guitarist Eric Bell of Thin Lizzy and drummer Jeff Rich of Status Quo. Joined by loyal bass guitarist and vocalist Tony Mac who has been there from the beginning, and also highly respected and talented Robin Hood on drums will complete the line-up.

KEN HADDOCK

Born into the middle of what was then the war zone of north west Belfast during the late 60’s-80’s, Ken Haddock has lived to tell a tale. He tells the story of his mainly adult life through the writing of songs. Although gentle, he delivers these songs with one of the biggest voices you will hear. Three albums of original songs exist to date, The Sweetest Hour, Almost and One Night in Willowfield.

LITTLE WILGAR & THE CRACKPOT PREACHERS

Playing harmonica from the age of nine Mike (Little) Wilgar has been blasting out blues tunes ever since. Well known on the local and International blues scene Mike and the guys have played across the world as far afield as Indonesia where they headlined at the Jakarta International Blues Festival. The band’s 2006 album ‘Swimming With Sharks’ is still a regular on the playlists of blues radio shows all over the world.

LUDWIG & CO

Ludwig & Co are a seasoned professional two piece equally comfortable in any genre. Journeymen in the realms of folk, rock and blues, they litter their repertoire with songs that are a little different from other blues acts. For a duo with no backing tracks, hats or gimmicks these guys really ‘fill-out’ the sound.

MARK BLACK BAND

This band is far from your traditional rock based outfit, featuring amplified 12 string acoustic guitars, lap steel and didjireedoo alongside pumping driving roots rhythms and grooves. One of the hottest and dynamic live acts around, a really funky tight three piece like you’ve never seen. Rock influences such as Rory Gallagher, Jimi Hendrix and the Jam Band influences of The Grateful Dead and Phish can be heard throughout the set.

MARK BRAIDNER BLUES TRIO

A competent slide and finger style guitarist influenced primarily by the pre-war blues of the 1920s and 1930s the Mark Braidner Blues Trio offer a mix of everything from Ragtime and Houkum styles through to down home Delta blues. Their driving beats and infectious rhythms get toes tapping wherever they play.

MIKE BROOKFIELD

Mike Brookfield has built a reputation as one of the most dynamic performers on the Irish blues scene. Mike paid his dues as West End performer and session musician, recording and performing with many well-known artists. His internationally acclaimed solo album releases ‘Love Breaks The Fall” (2015) and ‘Brookfield’ (2017) prove his guitar playing and song writing to be of world class standard.

MIRENDA ROSENBERG

Some singers own the stage, but Mirenda Rosenberg is famous for owning the stage, the dance floor, and sometimes the audiences personal space when she performs. Mirenda shares her personal history of Black American Music through raw, viceral songs. Her musical expedition spans the decades, including the music of Bessie Smith, Ray Charles, & Curtis Mayfield as well as her vivacious original tunes.

NITEHAWKS

Stompin’ brass based blues, soul and rock to knock your socks off. This tasty six piece are back doing what they love best. So ‘do the brow beatin’ heavy leather Armagh Blues shuffle’ and get yourself down to the Armagh City Hotel on Friday night to check out the fabulous Nitehawks.

OBSIDIAN

Obsidian are a local fourpiece classic rock/blues band who offer a wide range of smouldering bluesy originals and cover bands such as Deep Purple, ZZ Top, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Fleetwood Mac. Obsidian have recently spent time in the studio recording their debut album ‘Black Glass’. The basis of their diverse sound as a band, is the product of a wide variety of influences within their band.

ONE HORSE PONY

One Horse Pony have already played with and received plaudits from legends like Blind Boys of Alabama and in a short space of time have racked up festival appearances at Electric Picnic, Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, Independence, Kilkenny Roots Festival and more. In the meantime, enjoy the sounds of Ireland’s freshest, yet simultaneously dirtiest, no-good, shack-in-the-swamps trio.

PAT MCMANUS

Former Mama’s Boys and Celtus guitarist and violin virtuoso, along with band members Paul Faloon and Marty McDermott, the band are currently on their 12th year of touring playing their own special brand of blues rock infused with a touch of the Celtic. Last year the band celebrated Pat’s 40th year as a professional musician and released acoustic retrospective album ‘Rewind’, which included songs from his career.

PAUL SHERRY

Paul Sherry has played all over Ireland on the festival and gig circuit with his trio. His up tempo blues rock shows were a mix of guitar driven licks and rust and dust sounding vocals from top to bottom. His recent album ‘Songstone’ turned a new corner to a more song based side with great melodies and a funky pop rock rhythm section.

PREACHER CASEY’S

Bringing a new sound to the local music scene; blues meets folk via a journey around the rootsy country of the Deep South and beyond! It’s good time music with an edge, with influences ranging from Rory Gallagher, Andy Irvine, Woody Guthrie and the Old Crow Medicine Show.

RAB McCULLOUGH

Rab McCullough was an active contributor in the 60’s & 70’s when the blues baby came of age, sharing stages with his peers who went on to be Rock & Blues legends including Rory Gallagher, Van Morrison and Jimi Hendrix. Rab inspires generations with his electrifying live shows, always thrilling crowds with unstoppable energy and conviction.

RILEY & THE MOONROCKERS

Riley & the Moonrockers are a 3 piece rockabilly/ rock n’ roll band (father and son) from Cavan. With an energetic live show that has been entertaining audiences all over Europe playing with legends such as Jerry Lee Lewis and Chuck Berry, the bands enthusiasm for what they do shines through in every performance.

RONNIE GREER BLUES BAND

Blues guitar legend Ronnie Greer has been at the centre of the Irish blues scene for over forty years and has shared the stage with some of the leading figures in the genre. His band, featuring some of the finest musicians in the country, operate on a level which must be heard to be appreciated.

ROY FULTON EXPERIENCE

Roy Fulton’s own unique style of blues guitar playing has been described by US magazine ‘Guitar Player’ as being ‘played with fire and respect’. Roy who is currently based in France will be flying in especially for the festival and will be joined by local musicians Erik Coleman on bass and Michael Conway on drums. This will be one gig you definitely won’t want to miss!

RUSTY JACKS

Rusty Jacks have built up a reputation as one of the best live Blues band in the country having played in the leading Blues Festivals in Ireland and Britain. They have released two albums which have been highly acclaimed by the industry. Steaming hot guitars, haunting side guitar, thundering rhythm section, rasping vocals and a sprinkling of harmonica licks and keyboard backing are what awaits.

SOULSHINE BLUE

SoulShine Blue are a 6 piece soul/blues band. This set up consists of drums, bass, guitar, keyboard, saxophone and two female vocals. They include a number of genres such as blues, rock and soul from artists such as Imelda May, Joe Bonamassa, Rory Gallagher and Eric Clapton.

SOUNDBITES

The ‘Soundbites’ from way back in the Monaghan Delta, are a four piece ‘Electric Blues Band’. Their passion for this music is obvious every time they take to the stage, with their lively guitar & biting harmonica sound. Their ever expanding repertoire of songs, includes standards by Muddy Waters, B.B. King & who knows maybe even a little Chuck Berry when things liven up.

STONECOLD HOBOS

Stonecold Hobos are a Drogheda based blues band consisting of drums, bass, harmonica slide guitar and vocals. Amongst their catalogue of original material, expect to hear the likes of Muddy, Elmore, Little Walter, Freddie King and more. Their live show is noted for its energy and authenticity.

THE BLUEZ KATZ BLUES BAND

Fronted by lead singer and harmonica player Ian Sands, alongside his son James Sands on electric guitar and daughter Sarah Sands on saxophone. They are joined onstage by Laurence Dugan on bass guitar. Throughout their exciting career, The Katz have had the pleasure of supporting many famous acts including Van Morrison, Peter Green (Fleetwood Mac) and have also served as backing bands to some great musicians such as Eric Bell (Thin Lizzy), Jimmy Burns, and Jack Moore.

THE BROWN NOTES

If you’re looking for a tasty mix of blues guitar, reggae, rock and soulful saxophone that will uplift anyone’s mood, then check out The Brown Notes. The lads have spent the last 10 years creating an awesome set of Blues, Rock and Reggae tunes.

THE CASINO DIXIELAND JAZZ BAND

A six-piece band specialising in New Orleans style Dixieland Jazz. These guys have been playing music for a life-time. The energy and feel good factor that they create to audiences young and old alike with their unique sound and style is breathtaking, making them one of the most sought after Dixieland Jazz Bands in the area.

THE CATFISH BLUES ORCHESTRA

Ireland’s definitive Blues Big Band ‘The Catfish Blues Orchestra’ is a truly unique musical experience. With an octane show featuring blistering guitar, creamy bass, steam train like percussion, melodic vocal work, succulent sax and true blues harp. A truly powerful sound is produced by this 8 piece big band that must be experienced live.

THE DIRT

Deep in the depths of rural South Armagh, a smooth new groove comes in the form of some old school blues for you to shake yer shoes. Playing covers of all time classics from Fleetwood to Lizzy with a bit of Sabbath for good measure, get ready to boogie.

THE JOE BLOW BLUES BAND

Formed over 10 years ago, this band have enjoyed widespread success and popularity, right across Ireland and further afield. Following their recent sell-out gigs at Derry Jazz & Big Band Festival and appearances on BBC NI, the band are now touring their brand of classic blues rock influenced by the likes of Rory Gallagher, The Stones, Eric Clapton, Gary Moore and Bad Company – a lively, up-tempo experience, perfect for a great night out.

THE KELLE REDMOND BAND

Heavily influenced by the likes of Etta james, Nina Simone, Janis Joplin and Eva Cassidy, Kelle has supported Charlie Mc Gettigan, Jack L, Mick Flannery, and Ben Reel to name a few. She has sung on a Brown Notes’, Niall McGuigan and the last three of Ben Reel’s albums, and has toured with the Ben Reel Band in Holland along with Julieanne Black. A gig not to be missed.

THE MIGHTY QUINN

Manchester based duo have taken their unique brand of blues and folk across Europe, but never veering far from the rainy city in the North West of England. Armagh’s own Mark Quinn is heavily influenced by Bob Dylan and Van Morrison with his roots firmly in Irish music. In contrast, Leicester’s John Mahon brings a unique guitar style with a voice harking back to the old American blues singers of the early 20th Century. Together, they are a tight unit with bags of energy and spark. A gig not to be missed.

THE SANDCASTLES

Bringing a youthful, unique blend of energetic rock and blues to the next generation. Having performed at festivals and establishments such as ‘Blues on The Bay’, Crumlin Road Gaol and Titanic Quarter, they’ve been to the crossroads more times than seasoned players twice their age.

THE WILLIN’ FOOLS

A night at a Willin’ gig could have you listening to a Russian polka, a Jewish wedding dance or a Metallica classic – anything could happen. Thanks to the mix in the band and their extensive touring over the years, the music is varied!! The Pogues will get a nod, as will The Waterboys, and then out of the blue “my lovely horse’ from Father Ted might get a spin. It’s anything but predictable.

TWO TIME POLKA

Award winning Irish Group ‘Two Time Polka’ play a fiery mixture of Cajun, Bluegrass and rock ’n roll music. They are not unknown to spice up their live performances with flavours such as tangos, East European tunes and a handful of politically insightful original songs.

The Blues Trek

THURSDAY 8TH AUGUST

THE SANDCASTLES	Armagh County Museum	6.00pm
PAT MCMANUS	Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre	7.00pm
BACKBONE BLUES	Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre Bistro Bar	9.00pm
THE DIRT	Viva	10.00pm

FRIDAY 9TH AUGUST

MD RAFFERTY MUSIC SCHOOL	The Shambles Yard	12noon-3.00pm
SOULSHINE BLUES	Bandstand @ Market Square	5.00pm
RAB MCCULLOUGH	Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre	7.00pm
THE MIGHTY QUINN	Rumour Coffee	7.00pm
LUDWIG & CO	Hole in the Wall	8.30pm
CLARA ROSE BAND	The Gas Lamp	8.30pm
OBSIDIAN	Victoria Bar	9.00pm
MIRENDA ROSENBERG	Upstairs @ Uluru Bar & Grill	9.00pm
THE WILLIN’ FOOLS	Red Ned’s	9.00pm
RUSTY JACKS	McKenna’s Bar	9.30pm
NITE HAWKS	Callan Lounge @ Armagh City Hotel	10.00pm
4 SHUCK MEN	Rafferty’s – Cuchulainn Bar	10.00pm
ALAN MCKELVEY	Devlin’s Bar	10.00pm
ALISON MCGRATH & SOULANTICS	Keegan’s Bar & Restaurant	10.00pm
JAMES GRIT BAND	Kelly’s Bar	10.00pm
BLACKWOOD	Viva	10.00pm
KEN HADDOCK	Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre Bistro Bar	10.30pm
2ND DRAWER DOWN & COMPANY	Railway Bar	10.30pm

SATURDAY 10TH AUGUST

MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MAKING WORKSHOP (SUITABLE FOR YOUNG CHILDREN)	Armagh Planetarium	10.30am-11.00am
KYLE RILEY (SUITABLE FOR YOUNG CHILDREN)	Armagh Planetarium	11.00am
THE CASINO DIXIELAND JAZZ BAND	Picnic in the Palace Park	12noon
SOUNDBITES	The Mall Shopping Centre	1.00pm
ONE HORSE PONY	Picnic In The Palace Park	1.30pm
THE BLUEZ KATZ BLUES BAND	Bandstand @ Market Square	3.00pm- 5.00pm
PREACHER CASEY’S	Turner’s Bar @ Charlemont Arms Hotel	4.00pm
ROY FULTON EXPERIENCE	Hole In The Wall	5.00pm
RILEY & THE MOONROCKERS	Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre Bistro Bar	7.00pm
COLD PORTER	Spires Bar @ Armagh City Hotel	8.00pm
GRAINNE DUFFY BAND	Charlemont Arms Hotel	8.00pm
FREEDOM 35’S	Rafferty’s – Cuchulainn Bar	8.00pm
THE BLUEZ KATZ BLUES BAND	Upstairs @ Uluru Bar & Grill	9.00pm
STONECOLD HOBOS	Toby Jug	9.00pm
TWO TIME POLKA	Red Ned’s	9.00pm
COPPERHEAD	Callan Lounge @ Armagh City Hotel	10.00pm
RONNIE GREER BLUES BAND	Keegan’s Bar & Restaurant	10.00pm
MARK BRAIDNER BLUES TRIO	McKenna’s Bar	10.00pm
LITTLE WILGAR & THE CRACKPOT PREACHERS	Viva	10.00pm
JACKIE MCAULEY	Victoria Bar	10.00pm
SOUNDBITES	The Gas Lamp	10.00pm
MIKE BROOKFIELD	Devlin’s Bar	10.30pm
CLARA ROSE BAND	Kelly’s Bar	10.30pm
THE MARK BLACK BAND	Railway Bar	10.30pm

SUNDAY 11TH AUGUST

PREACHER CASEY’S	BBQ N’ Blues @ The Shambles Yard	1.00pm
DAVID KING	BBQ N’ Blues @ The Shambles Yard	3.00pm
THE KELLE REDMOND BAND	Callan Lounge @ Armagh City Hotel	3.00pm
JOE BLOW BLUES BAND	Hole In The Wall	4.00pm
STONECOLD HOBOS	Viva	5.00pm
ONE HORSE PONY	The Toby Jug	5.00pm
MARK BRAIDNER BLUES TRIO	Red Ned’s	6.00pm
DD & THE DELTA BOYS	Rafferty’s-Cuchulainn Bar	6.00pm
COURTNAY & THE DUKES	Turner’s Bar @ Charlemont Arms Hotel	6.00pm
THE CATFISH BLUES ORCHESTRA	Spires @ Armagh City Hotel	6.00pm
THE MIGHTY QUINN	Devlin’s Bar	7.00pm
PAUL SHERRY	Keegan’s Bar & Restaurant	9.00pm
BEN REEL BAND	Callan Lounge @ Armagh City Hotel	9.00pm
CROW BLACK CHICKEN	Mckenna’s Bar	10.00pm
THE BROWN NOTES	Kelly’s Bar	10.30pm

Key Events

PICNIC IN THE PARK @ THE PALACE PARK

SAT 10 AUG | 12NOON – 3.00PM

Back by popular demand this fun filled blues family picnic in The Palace Park will welcome The Casino Dixieland Jazz

Band and One Horse Pony to set the scene with some foot tappin’ blues tunes. There’ll be fun and games for the family with light refreshments, but don’t forget to pack your picnic and a comfortable seat or blanket.

BBQ N’ BLUES @ THE SHAMBLES YARD

SUN 11 AUG | 1.00PM – 5.00PM

This family fun, BBQ and local cider event will be filled with good food, great craic and blistering summer blues. Music by Armagh’s own Preacher Casey’s and Dublin’s David King. There will be an opportunity for budding blues stars (aged 7+years*) to pick up an instrument and play with the talented musicians from MD Rafferty Music School at the blues jam session.
*Under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult

Music on the Band Stand

MUSIC ON THE BANDSTAND @ MARKET SQUARE

Dine Al Fresco in one of the many cafes and restaurants in the Georgian heart of the city. With live music on the bandstand you can sit back, relax and inhale Armagh whilst browsing through the 7 Hills Blues Festival programme.

FRI 9 AUG | 5.00PM – 7.00PM

SoulShine Blue

SAT 10 AUG | 3.00PM – 5.00PM

The Bluez Katz Blues Band

Fringe & Food Events

STREET FOOD MARKET @ SHAMBLES YARD

FRI 9 AUG | 12NOON – 3.00PM

Straight from the producer, shoppers can purchase some of Armagh’s finest grown ingredients in the historic Shambles Yard. With street food, ice cream

and great music from the talented students and tutors from MD Rafferty Music School… where else would you want to be?

ARMAGH BLUES GIN FESTIVAL @ ULURU BAR & GRILL

FRI 9 AUG | 5.00PM – 8.00PM

Tickets | £20.00 – can be purchased in The Wine Store or Uluru Bar & Grill

If you fancy kicking off your ‘Blues’ weekend with a gin come along to the first ‘Armagh Blues Gin Festival’ organised by local award winning restaurant, Uluru Bar & Grill. With over 16 of Ireland’s finest distillers showcasing their gins, you get to sample them and you won’t be left disappointed. This evening offers you the perfect opportunity to ‘try before you buy’!

MUSICAL INSTRUMENT WORKSHOP @ ARMAGH PLANETARIUM

SAT 10 AUG | 10.30AM – 11.00AM

Join us in our intergalactic musical instruments workshop where visitors will get to make their very own instrument.

From musical shakers to craft guitars, let your imaginations run wild. Then bring them along to help create some magic in Kyle Riley’s session starting at 11.00am.

KYLE RILEY @ ARMAGH PLANETARIUM

SAT 10 AUG | 11.00AM – 12.00NOON

Kyle Riley is here to get you and your little ones moving. The ‘Sing to Me’ Tour features songs from his 2018 release by the same title, some traditional children’s music and a little something for the adults. We’ll even dig into the blues to warm up your wee ones for a great weekend of blues and roots music. It’s an hour of engaging music filled with singing, percussive instruments, floating scarves and bubbles.

This show is suitable for your under 8’s, your rock toddlers and the little boppers in between, it’s good fun for the whole family. Free but booking essential.

Click here to book.

WALKING HISTORY TOURS OF THE PALACE DEMESNE

SAT 10 AUG | 1.00PM | 2.00PM | 3.00PM

History Tours will take place in the impressive Primate’s Palace, formerly the home of Archbishop of the Church of Ireland from 1770 until the 1970s. These tours will tell you the story of the Palace, the Demesne and how the history and architecture of Armagh was influenced by Archbishop Richard Robinson.

FILM SCREENING ‘RAY’ @ THE MARKET PLACE THEATRE

SAT 10 AUG | 8.00PM | £4.00

Dir: Taylor Hackford 2004 | 146 mins | Certificate 15 RAY| Oscar-winning biopic of the legendary blues, soul and jazz musician. Even though he had lost his sight as a young boy and grew up in a segregated, racist society, Ray Charles [Jamie Foxx] is determined to follow his love of music and begins a successful tour of the American south. Through difficult times he never loses his love of music, eventually becoming a Grammy Award winning icon and one of the most popular musicians of the twentieth century. Warning: Contains some strong language and simulated drug use.

Click here to book

MUSIC WORKSHOPS @ THE SHAMBLES YARD

SUN 11 AUG | 1.30PM | 2.30PM | 3.30PM

Whilst parents sit back and enjoy good food, great craic and blistering summer blues their budding young blues stars (aged 7+ years*), will be given an opportunity to pick up an instrument and play with the talented musicians and school students from MD Rafferty Music School at the blues jam session.

*Under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult

ARMAGH CITY ‘BLUES SPECIAL’ WALKING TOUR

SUN 11 AUG | 2.30PM | £10.00 | £9.00 (CONC)

The Armagh City Walking Tour will begin at the Visitor Information Centre at 2.30pm. You will be treated to a 90-minute guided walk through the atmospheric streets of Armagh, the narrative will be a mixture of historical and current facts on this city peppered with humorous stories and information on notable buildings. After walking up an appetite the tour will culminate with a ‘Blues Burger’ and a taste of local hand crafted Armagh apple juice. This is an opportunity not to be missed so book yourself on this fun filled tour which will end at the BBQ n’ Blues at the Shambles yard to listen to some blistering summer blues.

Click here to book

ARMAGH CITY HOTEL | THURS 8 – SUN 11 AUG

Enjoy our Blues themed grill bar menu during the festival in the Callan Lounge; complimented by the best craft beers, locally produced ciders, American bourbon and local whiskeys. Look out for our special ‘Blues’ drinks promotions!

CHARLEMONT ARMS HOTEL | THURS 8 – SUN 11 AUG

Charlemont Arms Hotel will be serving a selection of mouth- watering ‘Simply Blues’ special dishes, whether its Food for the Heart, Food for the Soul or Food for the Blues, there will be something for everyone this weekend.

Accommodation

Contact Us

If you have any questions or need further assistance do not hesitate to contact us:

Telephone: 028 3752 1800

Email: vic@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk