Legendary Rainbow Gathering set to return to the Slieve Blooms

AFTER a gap of 31 years the legendary Rainbow Gathering is returning to the Slieve Bloom Mountains next month.
In a statement on social media the “Lughnasa Moon Rainbow Gathering Ireland '24” said they had found a “beautiful site” for their “late summer gathering in the Sliabh Bloom mountains in Cadamstown, Co. Offaly, thanks to the kind landowner Johnny. It is situated in rolling hills with beautiful views overlooking a vast plain. But, it is sheltered somewhat from the elements by forest and hills.”
The social media post pointed out that the site near Cadamstown has running water and “bountiful firewood,” as well as much land for camping together. “The gathering site is surrounded by very well maintained nature hikes through the Sliabh Bloom hills. The giant's grave, the resting place of the Celtic King which gives the mountains their name, is close by.”
The group is looking for volunteers this weekend July 27/28 to set up a “seed camp” from July 27 to August 11th. The main gathering will run from August 11th to mid-September 2024.
“We need a core group to: Gather firewood for a big welcome blaze on the 11th; set up a well-equipped kitchen with pots, pans, and utensils; create a cozy, weatherproof welcome lodge; establish dry storage areas; dig and mark out toilet pits and paths. Please coordinate your arrival through the correct channels to keep organised and keep Johnny informed.”
The contact information is Email: irishrainbow gathering@riseup.net. Call / Text: 085 1847390.
On August 25, 1993, a group of over 2,000 “Rainbow Gatherers” came from all over Europe to the small townland of Ballyhupahaun, Rosenallis, to share in peace and love, and earned national media attention for themselves and for the beautiful townland.
The gathering received a lot of media coverage, with curious people from near and far coming along to see these “fascinating Rainbow people”. One report even stated that former Taoiseach Charles Haughey flew over the Slieve Bloom site in an aeroplane to catch a glimpse of these much talked about people in their talking circle and black magic hat.
The gathering was warmly welcomed by locals and was a great success.