Record crowds descend on Rosenallis for Festival of the Mountain and Vintage Rally

Thousands of people descended on Rosenallis on Sunday as the Festival of the Mountain and Vintage Rally returned for another hugely successful year. Set against the backdrop of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, the August 16 event attracted record-breaking crowds, with visitors travelling from across the Midlands and further afield. There was an international flavour too, with people from the United States, Canada, India, and Germany among those attending. Vintage displays have long been at the heart of the festival, and this year was no different. Classic cars, vintage tractors, and a traditional threshing machine were among the attractions lining the hillside. A new elevated stage was introduced for 2026, providing views across the surrounding countryside while hosting a packed programme of music and entertainment. Performers included Abbeyfolk, the Timahoe Male Choir, Ukrainian vocalist Tetiana Herasymova, and the O’Neil Sisters. Dance also featured prominently, with belly dancing by The Red Embers & Guests, classical Indian Bharatanatyam by Mohana Natarajan, and performances from Jump Street Dancers and the Beats of Tullamore Dancers. Dr Meghana Vasisht hosted an interactive Bollywood masterclass, while Jabba Jabba Jembe led communal drumming sessions. Exhibition children’s GAA matches were part of the family programme. One of the most distinctive attractions involved well-known sculptor Lynn Kirkham creating a willow sculpture, *The Guardian of the Mountain*, which was donated to the festival committee. MaryEllen Tynan was crowned Queen of the Mountain, taking to the stage in a 40-year-old dress handmade by her mother. She was joined by her parents, Timmy and Mary, judge Caroline, and Irish Wolfhounds Moll and Roisin for the presentation. Maura Scully also claimed top honours in one of the festival’s style competitions. There was competition beyond the stage, with Cadamstown overcoming Rosenallis in the tug-of-war. In the Dog Show, Edel McCoy and Willow emerged with the top prize. Craft marquees and children’s entertainment added to the busy afternoon, bringing together vintage machinery, music, sport, art, and cultures from around the world in the foothills of the Slieve Blooms.