PHOTOGRAPHY, PERSONAL
Macnas Parade in Galway
Caption: “Parade crossing the Ball's Bridge next to Róisín Dubh. 2025".
Heading to Galway
While the Cork Jazz Festival was in full swing over the weekend, we headed up to Galway to check out the Macnas Halloween parade. I’ve been following Macnas since I first saw their street play at the Cork Midsummer Festival back in 2011, and this year’s parade, inspired by Bram Stoker’s lesser-known story "The Summoning of the Lost", had all their signature ingredients: giant figures, storytelling, movement, plus smoke and light.
“Giant figures, storytelling, movement, smoke and light — Macnas never fails to impress.”
Caption: “Macnas in front of Cork Opera House. Cork Midsummer Festival 2011".
Energy on the Streets
The parade was short but packed with energy. Despite the chill, the streets were buzzing, and my son even did 200 jumping jacks in a row while we waited — determined to beat his own record, which he did. Watching the crowd, it’s always striking to see how live street performance brings people together and how hungry everyone is for experiences like this.
“It’s amazing to see how live street performance brings people together.”
Caption: “Parade marching through the Shop Street and crowds gathered to experience the spectacle, 2025".
Capturing the Moment
I took a few snap snaps with my Fuji and 33mm f/1.4 lens to keep the memories alive. I like this lens because it gives a classic, elegant 50mm field of view, which works beautifully for capturing both people and the overall atmosphere.
“The 33mm lens gives a classic, elegant 50mm field of view — perfect for people and atmosphere alike.”
Looking Ahead
Now I’m already looking forward to the Cork parade — come on Dragon of Shandon! Here are a few additional pics from the evening with Galway in action.
If you’re planning an event, and think I might be a good fit to help shape the visual side of it, I’d love to hear from you.
Let’s start a conversation and see where it leads.
Marcin Lewandowski | soundofphotography.com
Caption: “Macnas in full swing. 2025".
Caption: “Demon Dog of Shop Street aka Shera. 2025".