The countdown is on for the Ulster Fleadh 2025, with the band competitions kicking off this Sunday, 20 July, at 2:30 pm. This early contest comes a full week before the other Ulster Fleadh competitions, in an unusual move by organisers. It’s clear the band competitions have been sacrificed to allow for other events to take place on the main weekend.
Event Details
Date: Sunday, 20 July 2025
Time: Competitions begin at 2:30 pm
Location: St Marks High School
Parade: Starts at 3:30 pm, following the band competitions.
Five bands will participate in both the competitive and parade sections, showcasing some of the finest talent in the province.
Pipe Band Competition: A Showdown of Champions
Two standout names will contest the pipe band section:
Letterkenny & District Pipe Band
A familiar name in the Ulster Fleadh scene, Letterkenny has two previous Ulster Fleadh titles and will be looking to add a third this year. Known for their precision and vibrant sound, they’re tipped as one of the favourites.
St. Joseph’s Pipe Band, Longstone
A strong competitor with a proud history, Longstone famously clinched the All-Ireland pipe band title in 2018. They’ll be aiming to topple Letterkenny and reclaim their place among the province’s top pipe bands.
Junior Miscellaneous: Cloich Cheann Fhaola Chasing 3 in a Row
In the junior miscellaneous section, Cloich Cheann Fhaola Junior Band is on the hunt for their third consecutive Ulster Fleadh title. A victory here would also set them up for a shot at a third consecutive All-Ireland crown — a rare and impressive achievement.
Senior Miscellaneous: Cloich Cheann Fhaola’s Redemption Mission
The senior miscellaneous category will see Cloich Cheann Fhaola Senior Band aiming to bounce back after a shock defeat to Glasgow’s St Roch’s Marching Band at last year’s All-Ireland. Having last claimed the Ulster title in 2023, they’ll be keen to reassert their dominance and secure a pathway to the national stage.
Senior Flute Section: Mullaghduff Return
Mullaghduff Fife and Drum Band returns to Fleadh competition for the first time since 2017, after securing qualification by winning this year’s Donegal Fleadh. Mullaghduff boasts a rich history, having won nine consecutive All-Ireland titles (2006–2014) — a record still unbeaten. Maghery Fife and Drum Band, on the other hand, is currently the reigning force, with eight straight All-Ireland victories from 2015 to 2024.
Parade to Follow Competitions
Once the competitions conclude, all five bands will take part in a parade through Warrenpoint, starting at 3:30 pm and finishing around 4:20 pm.
Parade Route:
Upper Dromore Road, Warrenpoint Church Street, Warrenpoint Queen Street, Warrenpoint