Castlebar Song Contest 1966 - 1988

It probably is not generally known that what became the 2nd richest song contest in the world started out as a once-off one night concert.

The first Castlebar Song Contest was staged in the Royal Ballroom on Monday 10th October 1966 with a total prize fund of £95. It went on to become a week-long festival during the 1st week of October each year until it finished in 1988.

It became a major international week-long festival that brought thousands of visitors to the town over its 22 year life. The finals of the contest were relayed on live television from 1970 to 1988.

And now, a comprehensive history of the contest has been compiled by Paddy McGuinness.

The history contains all of the facts and results from all of the contests. It has reminisces from many participants such as Gay Byrne, Terry Wogan and Mike Murphy. It features lots of photographs, many of which have not been seen before. The book itself is a generous A4 size in hardback, and is a wonderful addition to the history of Castlebar town. This book will be of interest to anyone with an interest in the history of Castlebar, but also to those who have an interest in what was once a very important and world renowned song contest, held in Castlebar, Co. Mayo.

This is a wonderful publication, an A4 Hardback of almost 400 pages. It contains information on each and every song contest, as well as many contributions and stories from all those that were involved down through the years.

Paddy Mc Guinness, the author of the book, will personalise your order by signing the book and penning any requested message to the inside pages. If you have any requests, please note them when you are purchasing the book, or alternatively, you can contact us at castlebooks@eircom.net with your specific request.