In Pictures: Festival fever hits Ardara as Cup of Tae draws the crowds

There was a joyous, celebratory atmosphere in Ardara throughout the weekend as crowds gathered for the annual Cup of Tae Festival. Photographer Philip Mulligan went along to soak up the atmosphere and capture the occasion on camera.

Held in memory of fiddler Johnny The Tae Gallagher, the festival attracts visitors from all over the world to concerts, masterclasses and sessions. This year was no exception, and a great weekend was had by all.

Every year the festival honours some of the greats of traditional Irish music.

This year's opening night concert in the Beehive on Friday evening honoured renowned accordion player and teacher Donna Harkin.

Donna is described by festival organisers as ‘a great lady; one of the most special and committed accordion teachers in the country.’

And Donna was on hand the next morning to host classes for beginners in a number of instruments. 

A masterclass in fiddle was delivered by Aisling Drost Byrne, with Denise Boyle leading a moderate level fiddle class. 

On Saturday evening, the Heritage Centre was the venue for a special event to honour renowned musician Packie Manus Byrne.

Throughout the weekend, there was music outdoors and in indoor venues, further classes and dancing.

Visitors and participants from all over the world brought a truly international flavour to this celebration of Ardara’s rich pool of culture and heritage.