Commemorating History: The 177th Anniversary of the Tricolour Flag in Waterford
Waterford proudly holds a significant place in Irish history as the city where the Irish Tricolour flag first flew. This year, we commemorate the 177th anniversary of that momentous occasion with a series of events designed to honor Thomas Francis Meagher and the enduring legacy of our national flag.
Join us from March 7th to March 9th for an exciting three days of remembrance, celebration, and community spirit. Whether you’re a lifelong Waterford resident or a visitor eager to delve into our city’s rich heritage, this anniversary offers a unique opportunity to connect with the story of the Tricolour.
Event Schedule:
Friday, March 7th:
- 6:00 PM: Thomas Francis Meagher Walking Tour. Visit sites associated with the life and career of Thomas Francis Meagher in Waterford, starting with his birthplace at the Granville Hotel and concluding at Sabai Restaurant, his home where he was arrested in July 1848.
- Location: Begins at the Granville Hotel
- 7:30 PM: Dinner at Sabai (concluding the Walking Tour).
- Location: Sabai Restaurant
Saturday, March 8th:
- 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Thomas Francis Meagher Public Lectures Series, Waterford Museum. Prestigious speakers will discuss various aspects of the legacy of Thomas Francis Meagher and its significance for modern Ireland.
- Location: Waterford Museum of Treasures
- Session 1 (10:00 AM): Chaired by Ms. Eileen Whelan, RTÉ broadcaster and journalist.
- 10:00 AM: Welcome and Introductory Remarks by Mr. Eamonn McEneaney, Chair, Thomas Francis Meagher Tricolour Celebration.
- 10:15 AM: ‘Meagher: a portrait of the general as a young man.’ – Donnchadh Ó Ceallacháin, Waterford Museum of Treasures.
- 10:45 AM: ‘Changing times in the United States: an Irish-American perspective.’ – Larry Donnelly, Lecturer and Director of Clinical Legal Education, School of Law, University of Galway.
- 11:15 AM: Tea/Coffee Break
- Session 2 (12:00 PM): Chaired by Ms. Eileen Whelan, RTÉ broadcaster and journalist.
- 12:00 PM: ‘From economic cycles to bi-cycles: Ireland’s curious relationship with American multinationals.’ – Dr. Ray Griffin, Senior Lecturer, School of Business, South East Technological University.
- 12:30 PM: ‘Ireland and America in a changing world.’ – Martin Cullen, former government minister, in conversation with Eileen Whelan, RTÉ.
- 8:00 PM: VOICES OF RESILIENCE: REMEMBERING WATERFORD’S TRANSPORTED WOMEN, A HERSTORY. Music, poetry, and storytelling honour Waterford’s transported women. Hosted by Dr. Phil & Elaine Brennan & Island of Ireland Peace Choir.
- Location: Edmund Rice Heritage Chapel
- 6:30 PM: Drinks Reception, Gala Dinner, Granville Hotel.
- 7:30 PM: Dinner
- Location: Granville Hotel
- The weekend highlight is the Thomas Francis Meagher Celebration Gala Dinner. Meet distinguished guests from leaders in Government to champions of Waterford. Great food, words from the wise with musical interludes from lone pipers to Uilleann pipers and harpists, it has it all. Tickets 75 euros. (Black Tie)
Sunday, March 9th:
- 12:00 PM: Military Parade, Wreath Laying & Flag Raising Ceremony, Waterford Crystal Plaza.
- Location: Waterford Crystal Plaza
- Join us for a special event that will feature:
- TFM Fife & Drum Band – Granville Hotel, 11am
- Parade of Veterans led by Pipe Band
- Wreath Laying Ceremony
- Thomas Francis Meagher Oration
- Tricolour Flag Raising Celebration
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to commemorate the Irish Tricolour.
We invite you to join us in Waterford as we honor the 177th anniversary of the Tricolour flag – a symbol of peace, unity, and hope for the future.