The New York Mary From Dungloe Committee announced that Daniel O'Donnell will join them as their celebrity guest at their 50th Anniversary Gala.

The internationally-known singer, performer, author and philanthropist will join the special event on Saturday, May 13, 2017 at the Astoria World Manor in Queens, New York.

The New York Mary From Dungloe Committee host several events in New leading up to the selection of a young lady to represent New York City in the Mary From Dungloe International Festival held each summer in Dungloe. The festival, which was inspired by the song which tells the story of a brokenhearted suitor who emigrated after being forbidden to marry his true love, Mary Gallagher from Dungloe, celebrates the culture, history, hospitality and beauty of the area, also known as “The Rosses”.

The winner will be announced during the gala, and partial proceeds will go to Queens Breast Health Program, which provides free breast screenings and education for uninsured and underinsured women.

“We are honoured to have Daniel O’Donnell join us as a celebrity judge at this year’s gala,” said Anne-Marie McCullagh. “He has also promised to treat us to a few songs during the evening. Daniel O’Donnell, Dungloe’s most famous son, represents all the things that make the festival so wonderful – pride in our Irish culture, giving to others and always remembering where you came from.”