Michael Flatley remained tight-lipped about his potential bid for the Irish presidency (Áras) as he visited Wexford on Saturday for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.
Sporting blue jeans, a white T-shirt, runners, and a navy jacket, Flatley posed for photos with Gardaí (police), fans, musicians, and locals near the Talbot Hotel after arriving shortly after 1pm.
While the Lord of the Dance is rumored to be preparing an announcement about entering the presidential race, he simply smiled when questioned by reporters about these rumors.
Sources reportedly told the last month that he was considering a run, but an official statement has yet to be made.
Instead, he surprised attendees with an impromptu musical performance on Wexford’s Quayfront at the Main Gig Rig.
The dancer showcased his skills as a flute player, performing a reel as the audience clapped along.
He took photos with members of the local Gardaí, including Garda Catty Burke and Sergeant Seamus Muldowney, as well as local Labour TD (Teachta Dála – Member of Parliament) and former Lord Mayor George Lawlor.
His sister, Annie, who he is very close to, was also present to offer her support.
Mr. Lawlor, PRO for the Fleadh, stated that the renowned Irish dancer has a long-standing connection with Wexford, making his appearance unsurprising.
“His son attended an Irish school here last year, and he also attended the Fleadh then, too,” he said.
“He has been a Comhaltas member his entire life, from his early days learning the flute and Irish dancing in Chicago.
“He is a huge fan of Wexford and is very supportive of the town. The crowds were thrilled to see him; he walked around and spoke to everyone, happily took selfies, and engaged with the young musicians.
“We were delighted to have such a prominent figure with a strong connection to Irish tradition attend the Fleadh. He received a very warm reception, with everyone approaching him to say hello – he never turned anyone away.
“He then went onto the gig rig, where tens of thousands of people were present as he played the flute for them.”
Michael Flatley wasn’t the only celebrity to make a surprise appearance at the festival. Ed Sheeran’s management made the owners of The Sky & Ground pub swear to keep his performance a secret before his unannounced gig on Tuesday night.
News quickly spread that the singer was in the traditional pub, and large crowds gathered to catch a glimpse.
The festival, which commenced on August 3rd, concludes tomorrow, August 10th. This marks the second year that Wexford has hosted the event.
“This has been a resounding success for the second consecutive year, with attendance records being surpassed and the event being exceptionally well-organized. We are delighted with its success,” Mr. Lawlor continued.
“By Sunday evening, over 700,000 people will have attended the event before we hand it over to Belfast, who will be hosting the Fleadh for the next two years.”
“Up to 150,000 people were present in the town on Saturday alone, and there has been a steady flow of fans throughout the week.”
On Saturday, there was no indication of the crowds diminishing. Traffic approaching Wexford experienced delays of at least 30 minutes, with Park & Ride facilities established outside the town.
Most service stations within a 20km radius had shut down their public restrooms due to the number of people attempting to park and walk to the event whenever possible.
Festivalgoers dealt with soaring temperatures of 22°C, dressed in shorts and T-shirts, with some even boldly sporting swimsuits while enjoying the vibrant event.
