Our Story
Founded in 2011 by Cara Coyle as The Spirit of Mountcharles, the event began in the Church of the Sacred Heart to support the Mountcharles Community Development Fund. In 2014, under the direction of Yvana Murphy, it became Returning Light and found a new home at The Central Hotel, aligning with its symbolic date, the day after the longest night of the year.
Since 2016, Ciara Martin and Daniel Breslin have led the event’s evolution, moving it to St. Patrick’s Parish Centre and continuing its mission to support the Donegal Family Resource Centre’s Youth Counselling Service. Over the years, it has welcomed an eclectic mix of artists, including Mojo Gogo, Little Hours, Christof van der Ven, Ryan O’Shaughnessy, Wolves of Youth, Rosie Carney, Nao Cannon, Michael Gillespie, Zara Montgomery, and many more.
A Tradition That Adapts
Even in 2020, during the height of restrictions, Returning Light found new ways to bring people together, streaming a special online performance produced by Michael Gillespie and Kevin McCloskey, still available on YouTube.
Returning Light Today
Now entering its 14th year in 2025, Returning Light continues to grow. The event has expanded into the historic Donegal Castle, alongside the traditional Parish Centre performance, creating an unforgettable evening that blends music, history, and community spirit. Each year’s show sells out, drawing audiences from across the North West who come together to celebrate the return of the light through music, art, and shared purpose.
We’re proud to continue shining a light on local creativity, mental health awareness, and the resilient Donegal community that makes it all possible.
Join us this December 22 as we celebrate the return of the light together.
— The Returning Light Crew
Returning Light 