The Wild Atlantic Women, a collaboration of local musicians and artists, celebrated Nollaig na mBan with special concert in Ards Friary on Friday.
The theme for the event was one of hope, peace and gratitude as together the women embraced the New Year.
The artists who took part on the night included Brí Carr, Brí’s daughter Caela, Wild Atlantic Women members Maria McCormack, Carol Wilson, Jean Curran, Helena Kenny, Trudy Ni Dhomhnaill, and the Falcarragh Folk Choir, Hannah NicPhaidín, Ella Fitzgerald, and Margaret MacAteer.
There was poetry and reflections from Denise Blake, Aine Ni Churrain, Karen Murphy, Ena Barrett and Colette McCallion.
The evening also featured a cameo appearance by Brother Alphonse on the button accordion, Br Alphonse was also a great help in organising the event and ensuring the altar was decorated, said organiser Brí Carr.
Brí described the tradition of Nollaig na mBan as a time to recognise the strength, solidarity and resilience of women. This powerful sentiment was felt in the voices of the women who took to the altar to perform in front of the packed pews.
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