“He gets sunburnt, soaked, and run ragged,” is how Croí na Féile is introduced, which tells you plenty about the spirit of TG4’s new series before a single episode airs. Presented by Hugh Carr, the six-part run follows him around Ireland as he steps in behind the scenes at some of the country’s best-loved festivals, working alongside the volunteers who keep them going.
Croí na Féile begins on Thursday, June 4 at 8pm on TG4 and TG4.ie. Rather than simply dropping into events for a quick look around, Carr joins the people doing the lifting, organising, welcoming, and problem-solving. That gives the series a warmer, closer view of festival life — the bustle as much as the celebration.
What to expect from Croí na Féile on TG4
Across the series, Croí na Féile visits a lively mix of cultural gatherings around the country:
- Belfast Mela, Ireland’s largest multicultural festival of food, music, arts, and carnival
- Cruinniú na mBád in Kinvara, celebrating Galway Hookers and a rich maritime tradition
- Féile na Laoch in Cúil Aodha, honouring Seán Ó Riada’s legacy in Irish music and culture
- Galway International Arts Festival, where hundreds of volunteers help power one of Ireland’s biggest arts events
- Dorn san Aer in Gaoth Dobhair, marking the life and influence of Rónán Mac Aodha Bhuí
- Oireachtas na Samhna in Belfast, returning to the city for the first time in 28 years
Along the way, Carr meets artists, organisers, and familiar faces including Kneecap, Stephen Rea, Liam Ó Maonlaí, Bláthnaid Ní Chofaigh, and President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins, as well as Catherine Connolly.
What makes Croí na Féile stand out is its attention to the people in high-vis jackets and volunteer lanyards as much as those on stage. That feels fitting. Festivals are remembered for big moments, but built in smaller ones. Croí na Féile looks set to catch both.
Image Courtesy: IrishCentral
