Mullagh Fair: A Journey Through Time
Nestled in the heart of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, Mullagh’s Fair Day has been a vibrant part of the community’s tapestry for nearly two centuries. The first fair in the new town took place on March 28th, 1828, and quickly became a cornerstone of local life. By 1837, according to Lewis, Mullagh was thriving with a weekly market and fairs for the sale of cattle, pigs, oats, butter, and flax held at regular intervals throughout the year. The tradition continued to grow, with the fair becoming a monthly event by 1870.
Before the town itself hosted the fair, the gathering took place at the Gates of Mullagh, about a mile and a half to the west. The earliest maps of Mullagh mark the fair green area, a spot that would become the pulse of the town’s social and economic life well into the 1960s.
However, as times changed and marts became the new norm, the bustling fair began to dwindle. The opening of Mullagh Mart in 1957 marked the end of an era, closing a chapter that began with charters and licenses granted as far back as 1621. The decline of the traditional fair was felt deeply, especially by local publicans, whose establishments were once filled to the brim on fair days, their takings rivaling those of an entire month.
Mullagh Fair Day: Revived and Thriving
In 1996, the Mullagh Development Committee breathed new life into this cherished tradition, re-establishing the Fair Day to ensure that the community’s rich history would not be forgotten. Today, it has evolved into one of the largest one-day shows in the Northeast, offering a unique blend of old-world charm and modern-day excitement. Whether you’re young or old, there’s something for everyone to enjoy as you immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and tastes of Mullagh.
Even in challenging times, such as the Foot & Mouth outbreak in 2001 that saw the Fair Day cancelled, the community’s spirit remained unbroken. All funds raised during the Fair Day are reinvested into the community, contributing to projects like village footpaths, the fair green, and the scenic lakefront—each a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered.
The Mullagh Development Committee, through various sub-committees like the Mullagh Community Playground Committee and the Mullagh Tidy Towns Committee, continues to support local initiatives. Over the last five years alone, more than €150,000 has been donated to local clubs and organizations, strengthening the community’s fabric and making Mullagh an even better place to live.
As you explore Mullagh and its storied past, you’ll discover more than just a town—you’ll uncover a living, breathing history that’s as rich and diverse as the land itself, waiting for you to experience it at your own pace.
