New Gallagher Clan banner to fly at Red Hugh O’Donnell parade in Lifford

A new banner honouring the Gallagher Clan will make its first public appearance in Lifford this Saturday during the Red Hugh O’Donnell commemorative parade, bringing together families and clans from across Donegal to celebrate their shared history.

On Thursday, Bernard Gallagher of CBM Signs, Letterkenny, presented a new Clan banner to Adrian Gallagher, Titular Chieftain of the Gallagher Clan. 

The banner will be flown prominently during Saturday’s parade, which celebrates the life and legacy of Red Hugh O’Donnell - one of Ireland’s most iconic historical figures and a central leader in the Nine Years’ War against English rule.

All Gallaghers have been invited to take part in the event, where they will be joined by members of the O’Neill, Sweeney and other historic clans.

“The O’Gallaghers are the senior and most royal family of all the Kinel-Connell - the ancient rulers of what is today the greater part of County Donegal,” noted the great 19th-century historian John O’Donovan, who wrote that the Gallaghers served as cavalry to the O’Donnell chieftains.

The Gallagher Clan played a distinguished role in the Nine Years’ War, standing alongside Red Hugh in defence of Gaelic Ireland during a time of profound upheaval.

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Saturday’s commemorations will feature a full day of activity in Lifford: Morning - Red Hugh O'Donnell 5km Run/Walk; Afternoon - The main spectacle begins at 1.30pm with a parade through Lifford, starting from the Applegreen Service Station on the Letterkenny Road, featuring marching bands from across Donegal and clan representatives; Evening - Traditional dance and celebration in Maggie’s Tavern, St Johnston.

The event promises to be a stirring celebration of Donegal’s rich history and the enduring legacy of its clans.