Omagh Music Festival 2023

All Roads Lead to Omagh for Omagh Music Festival!

Omagh Music Festival Weekend returns for 2023 and will take place on 3 and 4 November in Strule Arts Centre with a wonderful weekend of events planned.

Saturday 4 November will see a 15 strong band perform hits form Omagh’s very own Plattermen.  While there were many ‘Showbands’ on the island or Ireland, The Plattermen were one of the very few that were universally acknowledged as among the very best throughout the glorious sixties.

In 1971, after announcing in ‘Spotlight’ that they were ‘going kind a heavy!’ they recorded the remarkable album ‘Old Devil Wine’. This was a testament to the music they lived by at that time – driving, funky, rock music fronted by a world-class horn section with the inimitable vocals of Rob Strong, all to be recreated on this special occasion.

‘Talk and Taste Experience of the Showbands’ will take place on Friday 3 November with Omagh’s very own Showband members and friends.  This experience includes a captivating talk, access to the new and exciting exhibition and a high tea experience!

Immerse yourself in the Showband exhibition, which reflects the rich history and cultural impacts of Omagh’s music scene with exciting new additions from last year! Named the Sights and Sounds of the Showbands, the exhibition will showcase costume from the 1950’s onwards and include interactive elements projecting the iconic sounds of the era.  The Sights and Sounds Exhibition will be on display in Strule Arts Centre from 5 October 4 November 2023.

Speaking about Omagh Music Festival, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Thomas Reilly, said:

“I am delighted that the Council is once again hosting the Omagh Music Festival weekend to celebrate the rich musical heritage in the local area.

Omagh is home to many renowned and talented musicians and singers that locals are proud of and the Music Festival provides an opportunity to showcase their talents.

The Omagh Music Festival Weekend promises to be a weekend of top quality music and reminiscence with a variety of events to suit all ages.

I would encourage anyone with an interest in music, and particularly the Showband era, to go along to the Festival to experience the talent and celebrate a unique part of the heritage of Omagh.”

St. Eugene’s Brass and Reed Band, who played a huge part in the social history of Omagh, will perform in Omagh Town Centre during the weekend.

A number of workshops will take place on Saturday 4 November as we continue the legacy of Omagh Musicians, singers and writers who have influenced many aspiring performers over the years and continue to do so.

Tickets are now on sale and can be booked through Strule Arts Centre – www.struleartscentre.co.uk or 028 8224 7831.