Celebrating the arrival of summer at Lough Derg Yacht Club

The colour and pageantry of Venetian masquerade was on display at Lough Derg Yacht Club on May 19th for the inaugural Mayfly Moondance.

The Moondance replaces the Midsummer’s Night Ball, which ended its long run a number of years ago. Less formal, the new party proved that a less expensive and perhaps more carnival atmosphere could be a winner.

Almost all guests were sporting colourful masks, from butterflies to peacocks and from superheroes to the inevitable Harry and Meghan faces (it happened to coincide with the day of the Royal Wedding!). There was a bustling and festive atmosphere throughout.

The evening began with a gorgeous ginger and rum cocktail on the balcony of the club house, overlooking Goose Island and the lake beyond. Early birds managed to catch the sun before it clouded over. Canvas, a local brewery, provided a selection of their beverages for craft beer fans.

In keeping with the overall vibe of the event, the food was casual but delicious provided by Ashgate Farm. Guests were invited to a buffet with a pig on a spit with tasty crackling and salads followed by local cheese and icecream.  

 

Buck Taylor, a native of Kentucky (but now living in Mayo) provided a soul set with a full band. Hits from the likes of James Brown and Marvin Gaye ignited the evening into a pulsating party with the dance floor crammed at times.

Roll on next year!