RTÉ's Nationwide to air special fleadh programme from Mullingar

With this year's Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann about to get under way, RTÉ's Nationwide series will broadcast a special programme from Mullingar tomorrow (Friday) at 7pm.

Presenter Bláthnaid Ní Chofaigh returns to the birthplace of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and the All-Ireland Fleadh, as the town prepares for an event expected to attract up to half a million people.

Bláthnaid will meet some of the organisers, volunteers, musicians and families whose relatives were founding members of Comhaltas and the fleadh more than 70 years ago.

Nationwide will also look at the major logistical feat of coordinating such a huge event, and will tap into the universal passion for traditional Irish music.

It will also look back on Fleadh Cheoil events held around the country down through the years.

Nationwide's Fleadh special from Mullingar will be broadcast this Friday (July 29) at 7pm on RTÉ One.