Aon Scéal: Carlow Folklore Parade featuring Macnas

Crom, a giant brought to life by Macnas, is loose, wild and weary in this world.

On the 1st of June, 2026, he came to Carlow to roam the streets surrounded by the folklore characters of Carlow – Mad Sweeney, the Scallionater, Labhraidh Loinsigh, the Cailleach, a Seanachaí and the last Wolf of Carlow.

Inspired by Carlow Folk Tales, these characters were created as part of The Great Carlow Folklore Resurrection Project with Amie Egan, commissioned by VISUAL and Carlow Arts Office. Maracatu ilha Brilhante brought the drums and percussion, giving the parade its heartbeat, alongside young musicians from Music Generation Carlow.

Over four weeks, pupils from St Fiacc’s NS, Askea NS, Scoil Mhuire Lourdes NS, Tullow and from St Patrick’s NS, Rathvilly created masks, costumes and props inspired by the Carlow folklore characters with artists Selene Murphy and Angelica Santander.

Selene and Angelica also held a workshop with the Carlow Traveller Forum families and children from the Equal Chances Polish School.

During the festival, children and families had the opportunity to make their own masks and costume pieces ahead of the parade and join in too.

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