Following the success of Vintage Picnic 2023, a musical festival with physical and creative activities, Vintage Picnic 2024 will once again take place in Swords Castle. This is a collaborative event involving Fingal's Community, Communications, Events, Libraries, Healthy Ireland, Sports, and Operations Departments and supported by Creative Ireland. 

Featuring Collins Showband and the Blue Belles, the festival provides an opportunity for older musicians to showcase their talents and what is possible in later life. The local ‘senior’ musicians, representing both sides of the county are Balbriggan Ukulele Group, comprising of older people who took up the Ukulele later in life. Also performing is ‘Gerry and the Plonkers’, a group of musicians who formed through Donabate Men’s Shed.

A programme of physical and creative activities will encourage older people to try as many activities as possible. Tutors from the Irish Institute of Music & Song, Balbriggan will provide workshops in Drumming, Bodhran, Ukulele and Singing. Creative workshops include upcycling clothes and graffiti art. Health and wellbeing information for older people will be available, as well opportunities to try out Yoga, Chi-gong, Tai Chi and Zumba and an array of garden games.  For those who wish to take time out and relax, the beautifully restored Chapel, a quiet and tranquil place, will be open to attendees. Picnic tables, food vendors and transport is available. Free transport is provided. 

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.