Mayo PPN are proud to offer this programme of FREE trainings to PPN member groups in 2025. You may attend as many of these courses as you would like.

Please ensure you are available to attend the training(s) you have selected. Courses will fill up fast so booking early is advisable.

Follow the link to register: https://forms.office.com/e/3TUcVZWyKc

Mayo County Council and Mayo Sports Partnership are currently developing a County Outdoor Recreation Plan for Mayo to ensure the sustainable development, management and promotion of outdoor recreation across Mayo in the future. The core purpose of this high-level strategic plan is to support and enhance collaboration amongst key stakeholders, to develop a cohesive vision and shared roadmap to maximise the impact of future investment in outdoor recreation across the county.

Aligning to the Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors National Outdoor Recreation Strategy 2023-2027, priorities and actions for Mayo have been identified through extensive engagement and consultation with key local, regional and national organisations and agencies from across the public, private and community sectors. These priorities have been presented to the County Outdoor Recreation Committee however we would now like to invite members of the public to engage in this process, to learn more about the opportunities identified and open up discussion on potential projects and/or initiatives in your area.

Details on the Public Information Sessions are:
– Ballina Community Sports Centre (in-person) on Wednesday 12th February, 7.30-8.30pm
– Curam Family Centre, Claremorris (in-person) on Thursday 13th February 7-8pm
– Online, Friday 14th February 11am

Please email [email protected] if you wish to attend the in-person events or if you would like the link for the online session.

Town Centre First Mayo – Ballyhaunis Town Centre First Plan: Share your ideas

How to get involved:

Everyone is welcome to the family friendly Drop-in sessions in Ballyhaunis Community Hall, Main Street, F35 Y337

Friday 7th February 4pm to 8pm

Saturday 8th February 11am to 3pm.

You can complete a Ballyhaunis TCF Plan online survey:

Scan this QR code or go to http://ballyhaunis-towncentrefirst.com/

You can send comments by email to [email protected]

The Mary Robinson Centre are delighted to announce that the monthly Swap Shop will run every second Saturday of every month from February to June 2025

Exclusively Clothes, Books, Toys and Plants

Saturday 8th of February, 8th of March, 12th of April, 10th of May, and 14th of June.

2pm-4pm

The Mary Robinson Centre- Climate Hub (Entrance via Moy Lane)

How does it work

Bring 5 ITEMS Max per person (Any clean, gently use, and in good condition items only)

Swap away!

Discover new favourites.

Toy guidelines

Electrical items

Toys with cord over 30cm

Car seats, baby slings, or other safety equipment

Food items such as baby formula

Make sure you add it to your diaries

FREE Event

Understanding Autism: Insights into Neurodiversity and PDA

Saturday February 8 2025

Join Amanda McGuinness in Ballina Library for an engaging and thought-provoking talk on understanding Autism. With a focus on fostering connection, understanding, and empowerment, Amanda will delve into what it means to be Autistic, the importance of neuroaffirmative practices, and how to create environments where Autistic individuals can truly thrive.

This session will also explore Pervasive Drive for Autonomy (PDA), offering invaluable insights into recognising PDA traits, understanding the unique needs of individuals with PDA, and practical strategies to support them effectively.

Whether you are a parent, educator, professional, or community member, this talk promises to deepen your understanding of Autism and provide actionable steps to embrace and support neurodiversity in everyday life.

Free admission – all are welcome.

Five Week Baby Massage Class

Erris Family and Community Support Centre are delighted to offer a 5-week baby massage class every Tuesday from February 11th to March 11th 2025 from 10am to 11:30am in the Bangor Erris Community Centre.

Places are limited. For more information contact their Family Support Worker, Leah, on 087 7059705 or email [email protected]

‘Know Your Locality’ is an upcoming free hybrid 6-week course (online plus an in person field trip), commencing on Tuesday 11^th February 2025. Aimed at residents of Mayo as well as enthusiasts of Mayo’s natural and cultural heritage, the course will take you step-by-step through the available online sources that will allow you to paint a picture of the geological, archaeological, and historical events that happened close to where you live.

Register at http://iafs.ie/know-your-locality-mayo-february-march-2025/

Becoming a Mayo Dark Sky Champion is a fantastic way of protecting and restoring Mayo’s Night skies for future generations. By working together, we can actively reduce light pollution and contribute to County Mayo’s bid to become a Dark Sky Reserve. Together we can Carpe Noctem!

Edit – new location!
The Valentine’s Tea Dance will be NOW held in Craoibhín on Thursday afternoon INSTEAD of the Kennedy Glasgow House.PLEASE SHARE AND SPREAD THE WORD!Countdown is on for Craoibhín Ballina’s Valentine’s Tea Dance. They hope you can join them for a great afternoon’s fun.

13 February, 1-3pm, Craoibhín.

Quiz will be held in Maughan’s Pub Crossmolina (Out The Back!), Church Street, Crossmolina on Friday night, 14th of February at 9:00pm sharp. Entry Fee €10 Per Person. Tables of 4. Your support is always appreciated.

Feb 15th & 22nd 2025.

Contact [email protected] to reserve your place.

Mayo Foróige’s Got Talent (FGT) 2025 – Mayo Heat!

15th February 2025

Claremorris Town Hall

Calling all Mayo Foróige clubs – it’s time to SHOW US WHAT YOU’VE GOT! Whether it’s singing, dancing, playing music, or something totally unique, we want to see your talent on stage. Each club can enter one act only.

Categories:

Singing Group

Dance Group

Musical Group

Novelty Act (Comedy, Novelty, Jugglers, Comic Acts, etc.)

The top two acts from Mayo will go on to represent the county at the National Final in the Deane Crowe Theatre, Athlone.

So, gather your group, get thinking, and let’s make this an FGT to remember! May the best club win!

Pub Quiz in aid of Ballycastle Athletics Club.

Healy’s Bar Ballycastle will host a Pub Quiz on Saturday 15th February at 8:00pm in aid of Ballycastle Athletics Club.  (Facebook: @BallycastleACMayo)

Raffle and prizes on the night.

Why Participate?

• Engage with Ballina’s unique historical and cultural narrative

• Participate in interactive and hands-on activities

• Share your stories and memories related to Ballina’s history

• Contribute to the collective understanding of Ballina’s heritage

They look forward to your participation!

All welcome.

Claremorris LGFA Mothers & Others team are hosting a fun run at Clare Lake

Sunday 16th of February 10:00am.

This fun run is in support of their new Claremorris Recreational Centre, leading up to the Lip Sync Battle.

Please support this great initiative – they look forward to seeing you all there!

Discover the Benefits of Rowing!

Join our 6-week Learn to Row program and enjoy:

Full-body workout – Build strength & endurance

Better health – Boost heart health & reduce stress

Team spirit – Meet new people & stay motivated

Low-impact exercise – Easy on joints, great for fitness

The Linenhall Arts Centre invites you to this family-friendly screening on Friday the 21st of February.

Mavka: The Forest Song

Friday, 21 February 2025, 2pm. Free.
Advanced Booking Recommended.
https://www.thelinenhall.com/whats-on/events/mavka-the-forest-song

In an enchanted Ukrainian forest, a spirited Mavkanymph falls in love with Lucas, a village artist. Their forbidden romance faces challenges from disapproving spirits and Mavka’s protective father. As a dark force threatens the forest, Mavka and Lucas embark on a journey to save their worlds, learning about love, bravery, and the interconnectedness of nature. With stunning visuals and a magical soundtrack, “Mavka: The Forest Song” is a heart-warming animated adventure that celebrates the power of love and the harmony between humankind and the natural world.

Ukraine, USA, 2023
99 mins
Cert: G
Director: Oleh Malamuzh, Oleksandra Ruban
English Subtitles

”Oh the Deadwood Stage is a-rollin’ on oer the plains!”

Have you got your tickets yet?

Tickets to Calamity Jane are available in Achill Sound Post Office and on eventbrite.ie at the link below!

Get lost in a good book for Ireland Reads on February 22nd

Téigh ar strae i leabhar maith do Lá Éire ag Léamh ar an 22 Feabhra

—–

There are events happening in libraries all over for Ireland Reads during February and on Ireland Reads Day, February 22nd. Find out what’s happening at irelandreads.ie

Tá imeachtaí ar siúl i leabharlanna ar fud na tíre do Lá Éire ag Léamh i rith mhí Feabhra agus ar Lá Éire ag Léamh, 22 Feabhra. Faigh tuilleadh eolais ar an méid atá ag tarlú ag irelandreads.ie

—–

Do you love to get lost in a good book? Go to IrelandReads.ie to find the perfect book for you.

An maith leat dul ar strae i leabhar maith? Téigh chuig IrelandReads.ie chun an leabhar is fearr a aimsiú duit féin.

——

Go on, #GetLost

Coinnigh ort, téigh ar strae

—–

We’re celebrating reading all this month ahead of #IrelandReads Day on February 22nd. Get lost in a good book!

The Federation for Victim Assistance is a voluntary organisation founded in 2005, that offers a range of services designed to assist victims and those that have experienced a traumatic incident, in coping with the effects of crime and trauma. The service is also available to Victims’ family members. They also promote awareness and campaign across a broad range of issues concerning Victims of Crime.

For more information and to register for this course, email: [email protected] or ring 096 71652.

FUN table quiz on Friday February 28th in Ballina Stephenites GAA Club. This social night will most definitely focus on a fun night out atmosphere with a variety of trivia to suit all!

€10 per person and a generous raffle too. The fun throws in at 8:30pm

Don’t miss these two upcoming opportunities to help raise funds for Newport’s St. Patricks Day Parade:

Fundraising quiz, rescheduled for Friday night (28th February) in Walsh’s Bridge Inn, Tables of 4 – €40

A bit of fun to be had while fundraising for our parade.

Quiz starts at 9pm. Don’t be late!

And

This weekend’s Church Gate Collection on Sunday the 2nd of March.

Any support would be greatly appreciated.

 

Parke Arts & Drama Group presents “Marrying Mike” on Fri. 28th Feb and Sat. 1st March in Parke Community Hall at 8.30pm each night. Admission is €15.00 on the door.

“Marrying Mike” is a hilarious 3 act comedy by Jimmy Keary.

Elderly bachelor farmer Mike Fogarty, who has land and money despite appearances to the contrary, suddenly announces that he is looking for a wife. Mike’s scheming friend Barney O’Toole decides that his sister Colette would be an ideal candidate. Both Barney and Colette are determined that it will be a very short marriage. Mike’s friend Kate O’Sullivan discovers the scheme and rushes to the rescue. But Mike is a hard man to save from himself.

Mayo Dark Sky Park are delighted to take part in IRISH ASTRONOMY WEEK again this year with events both in person and online and they hope you can join them.

 

1st March at 7pm – Brian Wilson Astrophotography Night | Ballycroy Visitor Centre, Wild Nephin National Park. You can register for this talk by email to [email protected]

 

4th March at 7.30pm | Dr Niall Smith Guest speaker for “The Universe through the Quotes of Carl Sagan” | ONLINE ONLY https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/MbqzcDseQGONa-PgeBTcqQ#/registration

 

7th March at 8pm – Weekly Dark Sky Walk | Ballycroy Visitor Centre, Wild Nephin National Park

 

For the Nationwide Programme of events happening during Irish Astronomy Week; check the website www.IrishAstronomyWeek.ie

 

Seachtain na Gaeilge 2025

Join us for the biggest Irish language festival of the year, Seachtain na Gaeilge. Mayo Library Service and Oifig na Gaeilge, Mayo County Council have organised a wide range of Irish language and bilingual events including workshops, talks, performance, children’s activities and more. Events are free to the public and all are welcome. Check out our events listing below. Tá fáilte roimh chách!

Further events being held by community groups across the county can be found in the Seachtain na Gaeilge events brochure which has been compiled by Togra Mhaigh Eo in association with Mayo County Council: Conradh na Gaeilge – Seachtain na Gaeilge Brochure (Irish only)

**Mayo Autism Camp/North Mayo Come & Try Inclusive Fun Day**

This initiatives aim is to increase sporting and social opportunities for Autistic children.

All participants will be fully supported by our volunteers to develop fine and gross motor skills, social skills and confidence through a sequence of fun activities undertaken on their own terms, at their own pace.

📆 Sunday 2nd March

🕑 10.00am

📍ardnareesarsfields Astro Turf

💛Parents must stay and play

❤️This event is in partnership with Mayo Autism Camp North Mayo Group

Booking through Eventbrite: https://ow.ly/q3u050V28M0

Contact Elisha [email protected] or Ray [email protected]

🌱🌸 SPRING VEGETABLE GROWING COURSE 🌸🌱

Mayo Women In Sport Week | 3rd-9th March 2025

Mayo Sports Partnership is delighted to launch an exciting and inclusive calendar of social sport & physical activity opportunities as part of Women In Sport Week 2025

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS

Strength & Conditioning | Various

Come & Try Pétanque | Castlebar

Buggy Buddies | Various ……

MAYO.IE WESTERN PEOPLE WOMENS MINI MARATHON 2025

Registration Opens Thursday Feb 27th @ 3pm | Keep up to Date : https://ow.ly/wcV850V5XtV

WEBINARS AND WORKSHOPS

Training & The Female Menstrual Cycle | EduFIT & Mayo Sports Partnership | Online |March 5th

FREE online Workshop @ 7.30pm in partnership with Edufit | Book HERE: https://ow.ly/iMXO50V5XtY

Fuelling Your Fitness for Women in Sport | Castlebar | March 6th

In-Person Workshop, Lough Lannagh @ 7.15pm | Book HERE : https://ow.ly/QbtS50V5Xu1

Sport Ireland Webinars : https://ow.ly/aXqz50V5Xu2

For more details see https://ow.ly/lTsi50V5XtW

Join Birdwatch Mayo in inviting naturalist Eoin Warner to Mayo for a public talk on Discovering Ireland’s Natural World.

Eoin is a wildlife documentary presenter in both the Irish and English languages and has presented some of Ireland’s foremost nature documentaries in recent years. In 2017 he was awarded two national media prizes for his work on “Éire Fhiáin”. He has co-presented the English language documentary “A Wild Irish Year” and recently completed an internationally broadcast three-hour series titled “Ireland’s Wild Islands”. Eoin is currently working on a natural history documentary on the Burren. He is an avid free-diver and loves nothing more than to be in, on or under the sea. Eoin has travelled extensively to explore our wildest places from Botswana to Antarctica and has a keen sense of our ecological responsibilities. Eoin grew up by the Atlantic Ocean outside Bantry in West Cork and now lives in Galway.

Eoin will be speaking at the TF Hotel, Castlebar on Tuesday 4th March at 7.00pm. This event is supported by Mayo County Council Biodiversity and Heritage Office.

This is anticipated to be a popular event so please register attendance by emailing [email protected].

For more information, contact Monica at 087 411 1343.

Mayo Autism Camp are delighted to be able to offer free Lego workshops to their families. The first taster Lego workshop will be held on Thursday the 6th of March. A link to book will be sent this evening to all families that are registered with MAC. If you haven’t registered your family with them, please do so by clicking on the link below. If you have registered in the past month there is no need to do so again.

Mayo Autism Camp Registration

Ballyhaunis International Women’s Day Event

Le Cairde Ballyhaunis invites you to their International Women’s Day gathering!

March 8, 2025

Ballyhaunis Family Resource Centre, 4pm – 6pm

Women’s Deliberative Cafe

 

Following on from their Women’s Deliberative coffee morning held in Ballina in February, Dr. Shelley Deane will be facilitating a cross-border event with women from other counties in Longford for a seminar and discussion on Saturday 8th March from 10am-5pm.

 

Refreshments and lunch included as part of this free event.

Places are limited and early registration is advised. Please call Shelley on +353 089 9818039 or email her at [email protected] to register your place.

 

What will they be talking about?

– explore how we navigate existing challenges, and how we might tackle the issues that concern everyone

– consider what practical outcomes and improvements might arise from alternative constitutional future options

– understand the problems women share north and south

International Women’s Day 2025 in North Mayo – Celebrate, Reflect, Inspire! 👩‍🤝‍👩🏽

On Saturday, March 8th 2025 we honour the incredible contributions of women in North Mayo with some fabulous events.

Michael Davitt Museum, Straide

Guided tours honouring the powerful women of the Land League. Special admission for women (€5) + 10% off at @FOXFORD also.

Jackie Clarke Collection, Ballina (in partnership with the Collection’s Volunteer Programme)

Breaking Through the Glass Ceiling – a wonderful afternoon highlighting the incredible achievements of women in sport, business, and justice. (Including panel discussions celebrating women

Find out more in Mayo North Tourism’s most recent blog post: https://www.northmayo.ie/international-womens-day-2025/

More events coming soon!

Down Syndrome Ireland Mayo Branch invites you to their Bingo Night fundraiser, on Saturday 8th March, at the Castlecourt Hotel in Westport.

 

Great fun and lots of prizes on the night!

The initiative continues next Saturday, March 8th at Lough Lannagh by a range of community groups. If interested please email: [email protected]

Can you believe it’s March already? Kilmovee Heritage’s next Cois Tine will be on Monday 10th March at the Kilmovee Community Centre.

They hope to see you there!

Calling All Young Performers!

Do you have a teenager who loves to act, tell stories, and bring characters to life?

At Áras Inis Gluaire, their Youth Theatre is the perfect place for young creatives aged 12-17 to explore the magic of the stage in a fun and supportive environment!

This term, they are diving into An Tír Eile – a bilingual reimagining of Alice in Wonderland that is full of adventure, creativity, and a fresh new twist!

Mondays | 5-7 PM

Áras Inis Gluaire

097-81079 – Call them to join!

New members are always welcome—so if your teen is ready to learn new skills, build confidence, and be part of something amazing, we would love to hear from you!

Mayo Stoma Support Group

 

Next Meeting is on the 13th-March-2025

At 7 pm in the Ellison Hotel Castlebar

 

All are welcome

Time to brush up on those trivia skills for a fun quiz night in aid of the Rejoice Gospel Choir!

 

Friday 14th March, the Loft Ballina. €40 for a table of 4.

If you would like to attend, please sign up by registering in advance as spaces are limited.

Register here → https://shorturl.at/xAP1h

The next meet up of the Wooly Craft Club takes place

Sat, 15th March

11am-1pm

Ballyhaunis Community Hall (opposite St Patrick’s church)

All fiber artists from spinners, weavers, knitters and crochet. Even if you haven’t tried before many of them will show you how.

Spring Clean Up Day

This Sunday 16th March from 12pm-2pm The Butterfly Garden in Swinford are looking for volunteers to join them in their Spring Clean Up/Planting Day

Don’t miss this fun night of trivia hosted by Castlebar Celtic FC, and be in with a chance to win some great prizes! All proceeds will go toward the development at Celtic Park.

Thursday 20 March, 8pm.

Applications sought for the Heritage Council’s Adopt a Monument Scheme

Community groups around Ireland are being encouraged to apply to join the Heritage Council’s Adopt a Monument scheme which is all about empowering local communities to become involved in the care and conservation of a much-loved local monument. The Adopt a Monument scheme offers communities expertise, mentoring and support to help them to care for their local heritage.

Since the scheme first began in 2016, 30 groups across Ireland have ‘adopted’ monuments in their locality ranging from ring forts to 19th century industrial buildings to medieval churches as well as a Gaelic castle.

All over Ireland there is an incredible variety of heritage sites, including ancient tombs, stone circles, early monasteries, castles, churches and graveyards, landed estates, mines, kilns, mills, traditional houses and battlefields. The Adopt a Monument Scheme takes a very broad view of heritage and is open to applications from enthusiastic community groups all over Ireland to apply to the scheme to adopt a site that is important to them.

The aim is that the chosen monument will serve as a focal point for heritage-related, educational and recreational activities and will encourage greater appreciation and understanding of local heritage.

Speaking in support of the scheme Virginia Teehan, Chief Executive of the Heritage Council, at the Heritage Council, said:

“The Adopt a Monument Scheme is a wonderful way of ensuring our monuments remain an integral part of a community. Maintaining them and caring for them requires much-needed expertise and resources which is exactly what the scheme provides. We can already see the positive effect the scheme has had on the areas where a monument was adopted, and the pride of place and increased civic value brought about the efforts of our dedicated community groups is very satisfying to see.”

The Heritage Council is now calling for interested groups to apply for the scheme. The closing date for applications 21st March 2025. Further information about the scheme and the application process can be found here: https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/projects/aam

Dáta don Dialann. Aoine 21ú Márta 2025.
Date for the Diary. Splódar Theatre Company staging Dancing at Lughnasa in Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh on Friday 21st March.

Women’s Deliberative Cafe

Following on from their recent Women’s Deliberative coffee morning held in Longford earlier this month, Dr. Shelley Deane will be facilitating a cross-border event with women from other counties in Ballina for a seminar and discussion on Saturday 22nd March from 10am-5pm.

Refreshments and lunch included as part of this free event.

Places are limited and early registration is advised. Please call Shelley on +353 089 9818039 or email her at [email protected] to register your place.

Advance booking is required. Ring 094 9362096 to reserve your place.

You may register up to two people from your community group by emailing: [email protected]

Please come along – no pressure to commit to participating or volunteering.

The Ballintubber Abbey Trust are delighted to invite you to a special event, “Ballintubber Abbey’s Next Chapter: Bridging History & Future,” as they unveil exciting developments for the Abbey’s future.

Event Details:

Date: Monday, 7th April 2024

Venue: Ballintubber Abbey, Co. Mayo

Official Launch: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Live Broadcast by Mid-West Radio: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

This event will mark the launch of their new website and booking system, the presentation of their Strategic Plan for 2025–2028, and an update on the commencement of the Ballintubber Abbey Cultural and Heritage Visitor Centre, set to begin later this year.

Ballintubber Abbey are honoured to welcome Minister Dara Calleary and Minister Alan Dillon, who will be present for the official launch.

If you are unable to join them for the launch, the Ballintubber Abbey Trust warmly invite you to visit the Abbey during their Open Day until 3:00 PM to explore its rich history and exciting future plans. Discover all that Ballintubber Abbey has to offer and learn more about our upcoming developments.

Ballintubber Abbey would be delighted if you could join them for this significant occasion. Please RSVP by Monday 31st of March, 2025 to [email protected] or 087 9846586.

You can view and download the day’s itinerary here: Ballintubber Abbey’s Next Chapter Launch Itinerary

Exciting News for 2025!

Join the North Mayo Heritage Centre for their first events of the year on April 5th and 6th!

Organic Plant and Seed Sale – April 5th and 6th.

Check out our amazing selection of organic plants and seeds! Perfect for home gardeners looking to grow their own food. Our delicious and very popular apple juice will also be available on the day.

Food and Craft Market – April 5th.

Indulge in delicious local produce and unique handmade crafts!

Supporting our local producers not only helps our community thrive but also brings you the freshest and most creative items around.

Bring the family for a fun day out! Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, discover new favourites, and support local artisans.

There are a few vendor stall places still available.

Continuing through the month of April at all Mayo Library branches.

All welcome 💚

 

Donations welcome! Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

Explore the full programme and find out how to join the fun at: https://circus250.com/festivals/circus-science-by-the-sea-on-tour

Experience The Four Seasons by Vivaldi with the Irish Chamber Orchestra on Saturday, April 12th in the beautiful St Patrick’s Church, Newport at 7:30pm!

Led by Henning Kraggerud (Official) (Director/Violin) and featuring Aoife NicAthlaoich (Cello), this breathtaking performance includes works by Vivaldi and Kraggerud.

Tickets: €25, €20, €10 – Under 10’s free!

So, whether you are a long-time fan of orchestral music or a complete newcomer to the genre, Don’t miss this magical evening of classical music! Get your tickets now at irishchamberorchestra.com

– Please note: This project can be done by hand, so a sewing machine is not completely necessary.

As always, admission is free and all are welcome.

Hop into Spring with Storytime Fun!

Calling all little bookworms & crafters!

Easter Storytime & Craft Session!

Thursday, April 17

12:00 PM

Belmullet Library

It is the perfect way to spend a spring morning—stories, giggles and cute crafts await!

for more information contact Fionnuala:

[email protected] | 097 82555

Let us make memories that bloom!

One Easter Together Ukrainian Community Claremorris

Celebrate Easter with the Ukrainian community in Claremorris – taking place on “Good Friday” 18th April at Claremorris Family Resource Centre – Contact 083 0802924

Hop on over for an EGG-citing fun-filled Easter Egg Hunt for kids 0-10 years old on Saturday, April 19th, at 12pm at Newport Playground!

Family registration is just €10; all proceeds support Newport 3rd Year Foróige.

Bring your baskets and get hunting!

International Dark Sky Week (April 21st-28th, 2025) is here and Mayo Dark Skies have a list of exciting FREE events planned for youth and adults!

“Discover the Night” at Ballycroy Visitor Centre in Wild Nephin National Park – Páirc Náisiúnta Néifinne Fiáine @wildnephin_official for one of their creative, dark-sky themed events and be sure to stop by for a show inside of theirmobile planetarium , the Pale Blue Dot , in Newport Primary School Hall.

Booking Essential for Crafting Event only (Sat, 26th): [email protected]

This event is free but you must register for attendance on: https://forms.office.com/e/RVEqB1Yczs?origin=lprLink or scan the attached QR Code.

 

Mayo Stoma Support Group

Venue: The Ellison Hotel Castlebar

Time 7pm-9pm

Date 24-April-2025

The Living Well Programme for people living with long-term health conditions is now up and running, with a course beginning in Castlebar, Friday 25th April.

 

Living Well is a free group programme for adults living with any long-term or chronic health condition. Delivered by trained leaders, you will develop self-management skills and confidence to live well with your health conditions. You will also meet other people who live with long-term health conditions and learn from each other’s experiences.

 

The programme is delivered once a week (2.5 hour sessions) over 6 weeks, in a friendly and supportive setting.

* To Register for a place, Contact Liam Gildea. Phone: 086 014 2675 / Email: [email protected]

For more information see link: http://www.hse.ie/livingwell

https://www.thelinenhall.com/…/wor…/cuimsi%C3%BA-session

Spread the word, Aghamore Vintage Day taking place on 27 April… see you there !! 🚜🚂🐮🌾

 

Proceeds in aid of North West Stop – Suicide Prevention.

 

Email [email protected]

Ring John at 087 670 9044 or Dermot at 086 858 5068

Marine Institute – Foras na Mara in Burrishoole is hosting its Newport Open Day on Sunday, 27th April 2025 from 11am to 4pm. Discover the stunning facilities, explore the local environment, and learn about the groundbreaking marine and freshwater research taking place at the site. It’s a fantastic opportunity for all ages to engage with science and nature in a breathtaking setting!

A great way to get out and catch up with friends and neighbours.

The group hopes to see you there.

If you know of anyone who would be interested in being an exhibitor at this exciting and informative evening please get in touch before April 10th in order to secure a table. [email protected]

New Macra Club Coming to Ballina!

Thursday, May 1st

7pm

Ballina Family Resource Centre F26C6P6

Find out what it’s all about

Follow @BallinaMacra on Instagram & Facebook

Sign up at macra.ie/pages/join-macra

Let’s make rural life even better #BallinaMacra #Macra #RuralIreland #makethemove

Please note, #organicgardening courses have filled up very quickly in the past. 

Tennis Welcome Day at Ballina Tennis Club!

Saturday, 10th May | Afternoon of fun for all ages!

Come and discover the joy of tennis at our FREE Welcome Day! Whether you’re a complete beginner or just curious, everyone is welcome.

Adult & Junior Taster Coaching Sessions

Fun Drills & Games

Colouring Competition for Kids

Strawberries & Cream & more

Info on Summer Camps & Memberships

This is a FREE event, but please ensure you register to reserve your place! Limited spaces available.

Register online via Eventbrite: Tennis Welcome Day at Ballina Tennis Club – FREE Event! Tickets, Sat 10 May 2025 at 13:00 | Eventbrite

Or scan the QR code

Follow Ballina Tennis Club for updates.

Mayo County Council invite you to be part of Westport Green Hubs.

Click on link to take their short survey and they will be in touch with more information.

https://forms.office.com/e/CWk6tEAUyh

OutWest is a safe, inclusive space for the LGBTQ+ community in Connacht, offering support, advocacy, and a sense of belonging.

From social events to vital support programs, they’re here to uplift and empower queer individuals. Whether it’s a listening ear, connecting with others, or advocating for change, OutWest is committed to creating a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone.

Join OutWest for their upcoming events and programs.

The Drug and Alcohol Family Support Program can help you work out what will be helpful in coping with and responding to this difficult situation.

Free healthy eating group workshops available in North West Mayo particularly Erris & Achill

Are you a member of a community group/organisation looking to learn more about nutrition, portioning or ways to maximise your shopping budget in 2025?

If so register with the below details:

For more information, dates and times, please email them at: [email protected] or visit them online at https://www.cycleagainstsuicide.com/

Do you know a child aged 6-16 with a lifelong physical health condition who’d love to connect with others and get creative?

At Helium Arts, we offer Distance Creates – a series of free online art workshops for children and young people with lifelong physical health conditions like diabetes, epilepsy, spina bifida, heart conditions, juvenile arthritis, rare conditions, and more.

Through art, these children can build confidence, connect with others, and have fun! Our online workshops are designed and led by talented professional artists. When you sign up, you’ll receive a free custom art pack delivered to your door just in time for the workshop. The sessions include a mix of fun online and offline activities, and you can join in from anywhere!

Here’s what one parent had to say:

“Being connected to other kids with various conditions is great for her. In normal life, she’s the only kid she knows who even has to take daily medication of any kind.”

Our Distance Creates Spring workshops are now open for registration!  Please help us spread the word by sharing this email with anyone who might be interested in these workshops.

Sign up today!

Workshop details below:

Ages 13-16

• Distance Creates Online Saturday Youth Meet Ups: 26 April, 24 May with more Saturdays to be announced throughout the year

Ages 8-12

• Distance Creates Online Spring Saturdays: 8 March – 12 April  (6-week online & offline workshops from home with a bespoke art pack delivered to your door)

Ages 6-8

• Distance Creates Online Spring Saturdays: 8 March – 12 April (6-week online & offline workshops from home with a bespoke art pack delivered to your door)

Registration for the 2025 Mayo.ie Western People Women’s Mini Marathon is now OPEN!

Avail of our Early Bird rate of just €20, which includes t-shirt and eco-medal!

Secondary School Teen Girls (12-17) rate of just €10

Mini-Mini children’s event registration will open in April through primary schools.

Register here www.westofirelandwomensminimarathon.com

There are no easy answers to the complex problems our beaches and dunes face, so this event is very much about working together to secure the future of our wild coastal spaces.

The format will primarily be short presentations (<5min) with discussion. There will be:

1) a dedicated “local communities only” forum,

2) a parallel “public sector staff” forum.

3) a combined session for local communities and responsible authorities to share updates and discuss challenges.

River Moy Half Marathon to bring hundreds of runners to Ballina once again

BALLINA prides itself on being among the best sporting towns on the planet and that will be emphasised again on Saturday, May 17 when the River Moy Half Marathon takes runners along the banks of the river along the Wild Atlantic Way, through beautiful Belleek Woods, starting and finishing at Heffernan Park, home of Ballina Rugby Club, where a festival atmosphere awaits the athletes.

Hundreds of runners will race through the Moyside town and continue a great tradition of athletic endeavour. The River Moy Half Marathon has attracted crowds to Ballina for more than a decade and the 2025 version promises to be the best yet as the entire community gets ready to welcome runners to Moyside.

This year’s event is being hosted and run by Ballina Rugby Club in conjunction with race founders Alan and Liz Murphy and Mary Horkan, who are working with the new committee

“The event is one of the special days in sport all across the region and further afield,” Ballina RFC’s senior captain Gary Kavanagh explains. “We’re absolutely delighted to be promoting and driving the River Moy Half Marathon alongside the organising committee. Over the years the event has always been promoted as a sport-tourism event which involved many aspects of our great community, as locals and visitors took part and that’s why we’re so excited about it.

“People come from all across Ireland and as far afield as Italy, Belgium, France, Britain and the United States to run here and they come back year after year because they enjoy it so much. We live in a great town where everyone is made welcome. This is also a wonderful opportunity for local charities to raise much-needed funds and that’s a huge part of the event too,” Gary added

The community co-operation is highlighted by the enthusiastic support the event is receiving from Ballina Chamber of Commerce and Mayo North Tourism.

Mairead Melody Carr from Mayo North says the event continues to grow every year, attracting more visitors to the region and further strengthening Ballina’s reputation as a hub for sport and community-driven initiatives.

“We are all about celebrating and promoting our incredible region, and community-led events like this are exactly what we love to support. We work closely with local businesses, clubs, groups, and the wider community to showcase North Mayo as a fantastic place to visit, stay, and experience. The River Moy Half Marathon is a perfect example of how events can highlight the beauty, hospitality, and vibrant atmosphere of the area. It’s a huge positive for Ballina and beyond—bringing runners, spectators, and their families into town, boosting the local economy, and benefiting businesses from accommodation providers to cafés, restaurants, bars, and retailers. Many visitors even turn it into a weekend getaway, exploring the wider region while they’re here,” she says.

Ballina Chamber of Commerce are equally excited about the event and its President, Mary Moyles says the River Moy Half Marathon is a wonderful example of everyone working together for the benefit of all.

“It’s always fantastic to see the community coming together to make events like this a success, and we’re proud to be involved in something that benefits so many. We encourage everyone to get involved, whether by running, supporting, or simply soaking up the atmosphere. Ballina is a wonderful town for business and sport and when everyone works together we’re unbeateable,” she states.

President of Ballina RFC, Ed Gunning says the River Moy Half Marathon highlights all that’s good in the town and surrounding area.

“This is a wonderful community where sport is central to everything that goes on. The River Moy Half Marathon shows all that’s good in Ballina. There will be more than 100 volunteers stewarding the event and we’re absolutely delighted to have the Ballina Community Clean-up group working with us too. The rugby club is thriving, with huge numbers of boys and girls taking up the game and exciting teams representing the club every weekend. We have players on Connacht and international squads across the male and female game and of course, we have our senior internationals Dave Heffernan and Irish team captain Caelan Doris.

“The club is thriving and we’re absolutely delighted to be hosting the River Moy Half Marathon. Over the years it has been established as one of the most exciting events on the athletics calendar and we’re expecting a huge crowd to take part, with locals and visitors just itching to run along the Moy, one of the finest rivers in the country. We’re all looking forward to a wonderful day and a great weekend.”

Entries are open now at http://myrunresults.com

You can find their 2025 press release here for any further information: Street Feast Launch 2025 FINAL

North Mayo Heritage Centre are thrilled to launch their PET APPRECIATION CAMPAIGN

Let’s take a moment to celebrate our adorable companions who fill our lives with joy, laughter, and unconditional love.

Tell us what makes your furry friend so special.

Please reach out to Hannah directly if you are interested in this opportunity and/or looking for more information.