A major event is being organised in Tallow as part of The Gathering. It’s considered to be one of the most comprehensive such events taking place as part of the national tourism initiative, so much so that it has been chosen as Waterford County Council’s entry in the Tourism Diaspora category of the national ‘Pride of Place’ competition 2013.

The Tallow Tostal Festival will run from Thursday, May 30th to Monday, June 3rd. Finishing touches are being put to the programme at present. Festival chairman, Cllr John Pratt told The Avondhu: “We have tried to make it as inclusive as possible with something for every section of the community. We want to involve everyone.”

A highlight will be the visit of ex pat Michael Prendergast, who lives in New York. Michael has been a great benefactor helping many Irish immigrants who arrived in New York down through the years. He has also remained a great supporter of Tallow. He will be honoured for his generosity of spirit at a social event in the community hall on Saturday night. A huge turnout is expected with friends travelling from all over the county and further afield to pay tribute to the great Tallow man. A road in the town is to be named after him during the festival.

Also planned are cultural events including the enactment of a drama centering on King James the 1st who granted Tallow its charter in 1614. A copy of the charter will be one of a number of documents of historical interest which will be on display at the community hall on Thursday night during a get together organised by Tallow Heritage Committee. Noted historian, Julian C. Walton who presents ‘On the Day’ on WLR, will give a talk on the history of the town and area. 

There’ll be plenty of other entertainment too with Tallow GAA Club putting on a game on the Friday evening at Pairc Eamonn de Paor and the local bocca club and youth club also organising events. A tea dance wil take place in the community hall on Friday night. Brideview United will be competing in a tournament game for the Jolly Tinker Cup on Saturday afternoon.  An outdoor stage will allow people to enjoy music on the streets on Sunday.  Monday has been dubbed ‘The Scattering’ as people prepare to journey home but not before enjoying a barbecue organised in the hotel yard, among other events. It’s hoped to then continue the festival as an annual event.