Rodama News: Ireland's "Year of the French"

Thursday 9 March 2023

Ireland's "Year of the French"

On March 7th the French Embassy in Ireland planted a Liberty Oak in the Gardens of the French residence in celebration of Ireland's "Year of the French".

This initiative is one of a series of events this year which mark the 225th anniversary of the landing of French troops led by General Humbert, on August 22, 1798 at Killala in County Mayo, in support of the Irish cause. 225 trees are to be planted along Humbert's route from Killala to Ballinamuck.

Planting of a Liberty tree at the Residence of France - Ambassade de France en Irlande - French Embassy in Ireland (ambafrance.org)

The programme of commemorations will culminate on the weekend of 19th-22nd August with a "Year of the French Festival" at Ballina, County Mayo. Among the stars of the show will be the historical re-enactment group, In Humbert's footsteps. There will also be a rare showing of the 1982 TV film The Year of the French, based on the novel by Thomas Flanagan, which featured local Ballina residents.

Year of the French Festival - August 19-22 - Ballina 2023

In Humbert's Footsteps | Facebook