bluegrass bbq: niall toner band & gormacha

This summer, our Bluegrass BBQs bring together live Irish music and great American BBQ for a celebration of music and food.

Stretch tent and lights
Date
Sunday 21st June
Time
10:00 to 18:00
Age group
All
Event type
Free for members
Our ancestors who left Ulster for America centuries ago brought our heritage and traditions with them, especially when it came to music and food. This summer, we're celebrating our musical and culinary roots with our Bluegrass BBQs.

Bluegrass BBQ: Niall Toner Band and Gormacha (Sunday 21st June) 

Irish Bluegrass act, Niall Toner Band will be treating us to a rich blend of acoustic Country and Bluegrass music with a Celtic twist. Supported by Gospel and Blues duo, Gormacha, these talented musicians will set the scene for a day of summer fun! 

Try authentic American street food flavours at the BBQ, washed down with a Bourbon, Rye Whiskey, Ale or American Beer (all available to purchase at the bar, please drink responsibly). Bringing the little ones along? Hang out at the family games field for a game of draughts, corn hole, tin can alley and more! 

You get full access to the whole visitor experience as well, as we bring the diverse and compelling stories of Irish and Ulster-Scots emigrants and their impact on the development of the United States more vividly to life. We're calling it the STORIES OF US

Music Set Times 

21st JuneNiall Toner Band14:30 to 15:1516:30 to 17:30
 Gormacha13:30 to 14:1515:30 to 16:15

Are you a musician and want to take part? 

Pre-book a slot at the Geordie McAdam Open Mic Stage - plug in and play!

Geordie McAdam's legacy in the Bluegrass and Traditional music community is profound. He was not only a talented fiddler but also a master craftsman who made and repaired musical instruments. His passion for music was evident in his performances and he played a significant role in Bluegrass Omagh at the Ulster American Folk Park. McAdam's influence extended beyond music, as he was known for his engaging personality and his ability to connect with the audience. His contributions to the Bluegrass scene in Omagh and beyond are remembered with great respect and admiration. Get in touch to book a 30-minute performance slot from 12noon to 5pm (subject to availability) on the Geordie McAdam Open Mic Stage.

About the Artists 

Niall Toner Band hails from the Blackstairs mountain region of Ireland, founded by Niall Toner in 2001. An Irish Bluegrass act, their unique sound is a rich blend of traditional, acoustic Country music and Bluegrass, with a distinctive Celtic twist. You'll hear them play original songs and instrumentals at their next performance!

Niall Toner Band has a diverse set ranging from contemporary, up-tempo Western Swing pieces like 'Mood Swing', to inspirational gospel-style songs like 'Walk on Water', and the haunting Bill Monroe tribute 'The Master's Resting Place'. 

Founder Niall Toner is widely regarded as one of Ireland's leading experts on Bluegrass and American Country music. He brings this knowledge of music through his live performances, various workshops and his radio shows. Niall's songs have been recorded by many artists including Bill Wyman [Rolling Stones], The Nashville Bluegrass Band, Albert Lee, Special Consensus, Keith Sewell, The Swanson Family, The Fleadh Cowboys and more. Niall's lifetime contribution to the wider World of Country Music was honoured by the CMA in Nashville in 2003, when he was nominated for a Global Artist Award.

Gormacha play Gospel and Blues songs dating from the golden era between the mid-1920s and mid-1930s.  Dermot Rooney was described by The Irish Times music critic as "as astounding bottleneck blues guitarist" whose "playing is marked by a modesty and attention to the fine detail that sets him apart." 

Everything you need to know

about the Bluegrass BBQs

This is the first in a series of summer Bluegrass BBQs at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh. This event takes place on Sunday 21st June from 10:00 to 18:00.

Please note, picnics are welcome, however alcohol not purchased on site is not permitted. Bag searches upon entry.

No matter rain, hail or shine, we've got you covered! All of our musical acts will take place under a stretch tent.

We reserve the right to refuse entry at any time, without refund.  Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. 

Our STORIES OF US programme is part of the wider USA-NI250 commemorations and made possible thanks to funding from: 
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Logos for USANI, DFC and FODC