GARDEN PARTIES The Garden Parties, a tradition initiated by the first President of Ireland, Douglas Hyde, are an opportunity for the President and Sabina Higgins to open up Áras an Uachtaráin and pay tribute to people and organisations that have made a difference and whose work reflects the thematic priorities of the Presidency. In the summer of 2019, more than 4,000 people from across the island, and from all walks of life, attended the events in the gardens of Áras an Uachtaráin. The year’s themes were: · The Centenary of the First Dáil · Celebrating Family Life · Promoting Gender Equality and Respect for All / Sustainable Development Goal 5 · Bloomsday – Celebrating Screen And Film Production · Organisations and Volunteers Working With Refugees and Asylum Seekers · Participation and Transformation – Celebrating USI and Macra Na Feirme The President and Sabina also hosted a special concert, in celebration of Irish Country Music and in acknowledgement of the work being undertaken by various organisations in fostering, and developing, strong rural communities throughout Ireland.
President and Sabina Higgins greeting members of the St. Nauls Pipe band, at the Dáil 100 Garden Party
Family Day Garden Party, June 2019
By hosting a Garden Party marking the centenary of the first sitting of Dáil Éireann, in 1919, President Higgins invited guests to celebrate the creation of the Dáil, and the successes and potential of our democracy.
15 2019 IN REVIEW
