The Nollaig na mBan festival is set to bring joy and celebration to Dublin, featuring Olympic boxing champion Kellie Harrington as one of the principal guests. Taking place on January 6, the festival marks the 12th Day of Christmas, traditionally seen as the end of the holiday season. This unique occasion, known as Women’s Christmas, invites women to take the day off from domestic duties and gather with friends and family for tea, laughter, and perhaps some festive cheer.
Laura Williams, the event coordinator of the North East Inner-City Initiative (NEIC), shared insights on the growth of the festival. "This is our third year involved with Nollaig na mBan and we have gone from small beginnings and just one event to having had Maria Doyle Kennedy, Mary Coughlan, and Honor Heffernan last year. That's, I suppose, the festival end of things, really good value, non-profit-making gigs where the community is the winner," she said, highlighting the community-centric nature of the festival.
The festival not only emphasizes performances but also recognizes the contributions of local figures to the community. Harrington is expected to accept her award, and her musical talent is anticipated as well; she famously sung the song "Grace" after winning her Olympic gold medal, which went viral. The festival will also feature local talents like country and blues sensation Muireann Bradley, who is rapidly gaining popularity following her appearance on BBC's Jool's Annual Hootenanny. Her album, I Kept These Old Blues, previously reached the UK Download Top 10, and her future performances are highly expected.
Harrington's participation is one of many exciting aspects of the festival, which will include performances from the Mary Stokes Band, Leslie Dowdall, and tribute acts like the Mama Mia Sisters. On January 6, the events will take place at multiple venues, including St Columba's church and Annesley House, aiming to provide memorable experiences for attendees.
Meanwhile, the excitement over ZEDS DEAD's upcoming DEADROCKS XI event is palpable. Scheduled for July 2 and 3, 2025, at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, this electronic music event is known for its dynamic performances and special guest appearances. AEG Presents is confident fans will have unforgettable experiences under the stars at this legendary venue.
Doors will open at 5 PM with the show beginning at 6 PM both nights. Anticipated ticket prices range from $52.80 to $139.95 plus service charges, making it accessible to fans eager to witness ZEDS DEAD's high-energy productions and genre-blending sound live. Their reputation as one of dance music's most acclaimed acts is well-earned, as they seamlessly mix elements of EDM, dubstep, trap, and house infused with hip-hop and rock influences.
Adding to the trend of celebrated artists joining festivals, Nola Blue Records has announced the signing of two prominent musicians—Maria Muldaur and Candice Ivory. Maria Muldaur, recognized for the Grammy-nominated mega-hit Midnight At The Oasis, is embarking on yet another musical chapter. Her illustrious career spans 62 years and various American Roots Music forms, culminating recently of late with blues music. Candice Ivory, known as the \"Queen of Avant Soul\", has also gained immense recognition and is set to showcase her talents alongside Muldaur on future projects.
Each of these performances contributes to the rich fabric of the local music scene. The festival and concerts create opportunities for artists to expand their reach and for audiences to enjoy music events with community spirit. The spotlight on Harrington, Bradley, Dowdall, and others reflects the incredible talent nurtured within The Dublin area.
With events like the Nollaig na mBan festival and ZEDS DEAD’s highly anticipated performances at Red Rocks, the music scene is becoming increasingly vibrant and exciting. Each performance promises to bring people together, celebrate music's power, and honor local talent, demonstrating the strong bond shared within these communities.
Indeed, whether it’s the heartfelt performances at Nollaig na mBan or the electric vibe of ZEDS DEAD's shows, both offer unique experiences destined to resonate with fans for years to come.