Ingonish is located north of Cape Smokey and the hills of the Cape Breton Highlands are alive with colour this time of year, providing the perfect backdrop for a drive along the beautiful Cabot Trail. While the drive alone may be worth the trip, wait until you hear what’s in store when you get there. Ingonish is one of the areas of Cape Breton where residents have strong Irish roots and tonight’s lineup reflects that heritage. A major figure in Irish traditional music, Breanndán Ó Beaglaoich is a beloved tradition bearer from the west coast. Breanndán and Cape Breton singer, songwriter, and fiddler Rose Morrison have been frequent collaborators over the years—in Ireland and beyond—including during the 2018 Celtic Colours project Voices of the Naomhóg. While Breanndán comes from the west coast of Ireland, Valdy is here from the west coast of Canada with songs that reflect real lives and everyday truths, delivered with humour, insight, and an easy charm that has earned him a place in the hearts of audiences from coast to coast to coast. Rooted in the traditions of sean-nós and Irish folk, celebrated singer and flute player Rìoghnach Connolly was raised in a rich musical household and nurtured through the Armagh Pipers’ Club. Rìoghnach’s voice and sense of humour will be very welcome here as she and Valdy perform their last show at this year’s festival.