A new community storytelling programme will begin this June as part of the lead-up to the Lingaun Valley Solstice Festival 2026, inviting people of all ages to explore the rich folklore, heritage and shared memories of the valley.
Running from 6–20 June, the free series of workshops will guide participants through the stories, landscapes and traditions that have shaped the Lingaun Valley for generations. The programme culminates in the festival week celebrations and final solstice gathering at Ormond Castle on 21 June.
The workshops will be led by three of Ireland’s most respected storytellers and performers — Helena Byrne, Martin Matthews and Nuala Hayes — each bringing their own unique approach to storytelling, folklore and community engagement.
The journey begins with Stories from the Shadow on Saturday 6 June in Windgap Community Hall, where Helena Byrne will explore local legends connected to Slievenamon, Kilcash Castle and the origins of the Lingaun River. On Sunday 7 June, Martin Matthews leads Stories from the Field, inspired by harvest traditions, local folklore, the High Crosses of Kilkieran and the musical legacy of the Clancy Brothers.
The final workshop, Stories into Light, takes place on Saturday 20 June at Slatequarry, Ballina. Led by Nuala Hayes, the gathering will bring participants together to revisit stories and memories from across the valley as the community prepares for the summer solstice celebrations.
Open to everyone and free of charge, the workshops require no previous experience. Participants are encouraged to come along to listen, share stories and connect with others through the living traditions of the Lingaun Valley. Places are limited and advance booking is recommended.
Further Information
Storytelling Workshops
- Saturday 6 June, 3pm–6pm – Stories from the Shadow (Windgap Community Hall)
- Sunday 7 June, 3pm–6pm – Stories from the Field (Windgap Community Hall)
- Saturday 20 June, 3pm–6pm – Stories into Light (Slatequarry, Ballina)
Admission: Free of charge (booking required)
Booking & Enquiries:
Ade Walsh
087 694 9321
ade@lingaunvalley.ie
Follow the festival online: @lingaunvalleysolsticefest
#WhereLightMeetsTheLand
Lead-in Workshops Along the Path to the Solstice
Open to everyone — no previous experience required. Come to listen, share stories and spend time in good company.
Light refreshments will be provided during the break.
Workshop 1 –Stories from the Shadow
Saturday 6 June 2026 -3pm to 6pm
Windgap Community Hall Led by Helena Byrne
A storytelling workshop exploring local lore connected to Slievenamon, Kilcash Castle and the mystical origins of the Lingaun River.
Workshop 2 –Stories from the Field
Sunday 7 June 2026 -3pm to 6pmWindgap Community Hall Led by Martin Matthews
A workshop inspired by harvest gatherings, local folklore, the High Crosses of Kilkieran and the musical legacy of the Clancy Brothers.
Festival Eve Gathering (Workshop 3)-Stories into Light
Saturday 20 June 2026 -3pm to 6pmSlatequarry, Ballina (Marquee Venue) Led by Nuala Hayes
Set within the unique landscape of Slate quarry, this special gathering brings together stories, memory and participation in preparation for the final solstice celebrations.
Participants will revisit local stories, folklore and shared memories connected to the valley while contributing to the creative journey toward the longest day of the year.
Accessibility
All workshops and events are intended to be as accessible and welcoming as possible.
Please note:
- Workshop venue accessibility at Slate quarry is currently being confirmed.
- Event 2 at Kilkieran Barn includes outdoor elements and may be weather dependent.
- Event 3 at Ormond Castle includes uneven outdoor surfaces in parts of the site.
Further accessibility information will be provided in advance of the festival.
Meet the Storytellers
Helena Byrne
Singer, storyteller, actress and songwriter Helena Byrne grew up in Ballyhale, County Kilkenny, surrounded by music, storytelling and traditional song. She has performed extensively throughout Ireland and internationally, collaborating with a wide range of artists including Moya Brennan and Cara O’Sullivan, while continuing to develop work rooted in Irish tradition and oral storytelling.
Martin Matthews
Martin Matthews is an Irish storyteller, community artist and traditional stonecutter from County Kilkenny whose work is deeply rooted in landscape, heritage and the living traditions of rural Ireland. Drawing on mythology, folklore and local history, his storytelling practice creates welcoming spaces where stories, memory and identity are shared through participation and gathering.
Nuala Hayes
Nuala Hayes is an actor, storyteller and author with over 25 years’ experience performing and curating storytelling events in Ireland and internationally. Founder of Dublin’s Scéalta Shamhna International Storytelling Festival, her work explores Irish folklore, myth and oral tradition through performance and spoken word.
