As part of the Saint Oliver 400 commemorations during 2025, a full day of events is set to take place on Saturday, 5 July, at Saint Peter’s Church and Church Plaza on West Street, Drogheda. The day will honour the 400th anniversary of the birth of Saint Oliver Plunkett, the Saint associated with peace and reconciliation, whose legacy continues to inspire generations in Ireland and beyond.
The celebration will begin with a Family Fun Day at the church plaza, filled with activities for all ages. A highlight of the afternoon will be a special performance of The Trial of Oliver Plunkett, a powerful play that explores the martyrdom and final days of the saint, who was executed in 1681.
The festivities will culminate in a Gala Concert in Saint Peter’s Church. The evening promises a rich musical experience conducted by Edward Holly and hosted by broadcaster Gerry Kelly. Internationally renowned soprano Celine Byrne will headline the concert, joined by Drogheda’s own Staint Peter’s Male Voice Choir, violinist Jennifer Murphy, tenor Seán Tester, and some of Ireland’s finest musicians.
Tickets for the Gala Concert are €25 with no booking fee, available via Eventbrite.ie and at several local outlets, including Saint Peter’s Church Shop and Our Lady of Lourdes Church Sacristy.
The concert marks a significant cultural and spiritual moment in the #Oliver400 calendar. As Archbishop Oliver Plunkett is remembered for his courage, faith, and forgiveness, the town of Drogheda stands once again as a beacon of his enduring legacy.
To learn more about the life of Saint Oliver Plunkett, click HERE to read the address delivered by Archbishop Eamon Martin (see above) at the launch of #Oliver400, held in Saint Peter’s Jubilee Church, Drogheda, this past February, or watch below.