In pictures: Returning Light - A night of music, community, and generosity

Donegal Town was once again illuminated with warmth, music, and community spirit for Returning Light 2025, marking the 40th year of this beloved event. Please click on the arrows to go through the gallery

The event featured two sold-out events, bringing together an extraordinary lineup of talented musicians from near and far. Audiences were treated to an evening of exceptional performances in both Donegal Castle and The Parish Centre at St Patrick's Church, creating a magical atmosphere of connection, celebration, and shared purpose.

In addition to the music and community spirit, the event achieved a remarkable milestone: a record-breaking €5,155.10 was raised for Donegal Family Resource Centre’s Youth Counselling Services, surpassing the previous single-night total of €3,820. The generosity of attendees, volunteers, and supporters made this possible, and organisers are overwhelmed by the community’s continued support.

The event would not have been possible without the dedication and generosity of many people and organisations - photos by Christina Irwin captured the magic of the night; Brittons Insurance and Cavern Design for sponsoring the events; Jordan Carty for MCing the evening and for Daniel Breslin and Ziggy Van Wallendael for expertly managing sound on the night, the Donegal Family Resource Centre for supplying tea, sandwiches, and for their tireless year-round work and volunteers who helped decorate, set up, and support the event.

Musicians from near and far greatly added to the occasion, including Marian Bradfield, John Doherty, Ciara McShane, Stephen McCloskey, Roe, Niki Pollock, Evan Gallagher, Adam Maziri, Nao Cannon, Hannah Ryan, Darren Burke, Cara Coyle, Conor Cunningham, Onoir, Michael Gillespie, Zara Montgomery, Ziggy Van Wallendael, and Garry Doherty, all of whom generously volunteered their time and talent.

The highlight reel (can be viewed on our social media), created by the talented Alex at EspritVisions, captures the energy, emotion, and spirit of Returning Light 2025, a true celebration of community, music, and generosity. Returning Light continues to be a shining example of what a community can achieve when people come together to share light, music, and purpose.