THERE’S no place like home, and there’s certainly no place like Irvinestown, where plans are well underway for Fermanagh’s most famous festival. 53s6v

The annual Lady of the Lake celebrations return to the Fermanagh town this July, and the proceedings promise to be “bigger and better than ever” according to festival stalwart Joe Mahon.

With a ‘wicked’ theme – paying tribute to the much loved classic ‘The Wizard of Oz’ as well as the more recent box-office smash – and plenty of new features included in this year’s festivities, the fun has already begun in Irvinestown, where a certain witch has been spotted flitting around the shops and streets.

While the full programme has yet to be announced, Joe gave the ‘Herald a sneak preview of what can be expected this year.

First off, the town is set to be transformed to the land of Oz, with shops and businesses getting involved, street signs getting a fantastical update, and even a yellow brick road in the works.

As for events, both much loved favourites and new exciting additions will all be themed around the world first created by Frank Baum.

Highlights include a Toto-themed dog show, Oz-themed fancy dress with runners in the annual 10/5k run being encouraged to get in the spirit, and a new children’s treasure hunt at Necarne.

On the first Sunday of the festival, July 13, there will also be a new vintage machinery show at Necarne, on what promised to be a bumper day, with the famous donkey derby also being held at the estate on the same day.

Then, the following Sunday, the annual truck run will be celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Joe paid tribute to the organising team for their immense effort once again, and said the festival was all about community and coming together.

“The festival is going from strength to strength and the theme this year is hopefully going to make it even bigger and even better than ever,” he said.

“Everyone knows the film the Wizard of Oz, and now Wicked too.

“There are a lot of new ideas this year, and hopefully all the shops will get involved in dressing the windows up.

“If everyone works together, it’ll be a big festival this year.”

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