CALENDAR OF FESTIVALS & EVENTS 2013
GATHERING-IRELAND // 2013 BE PART OF IT This year Ireland is throwing one hell of a party – and we want you to be a part of it! The Gathering Ireland 2013 is a spectacular, 12-month celebration of all things Irish and every man, woman and child in the country is invited to join in. The green carpet is out in villages, parishes, and towns, welcoming hundreds of thousands of friends from home and abroad to relish the very best of our Irish culture, tradition, business, sport – and most importantly sense of fun! The calendar for The Gathering Ireland 2013 is packed with amazing exhibitions, fun festivals, cracking concerts and super sporting events in what promises to be an unforgettable year. So gather your friends and family and make a date to experience Ireland like you have never experienced it before. You won’t be sorry!
GATHERING HIGHLIGHTS THE GATHERING MORPETH ROLL EXHIBITION TOUR We didn’t have Facebook in the 1800’s, but Irish people still found a unique way to say goodbye to the popular Chief Secretary of Ireland, Lord Morpeth, as he returned to England. In September 1841 300,000 people signed the biggest ‘Bon Voyage’ card ever, filling 652 sheets of paper. You can see The Morpeth Roll, the world’s largest paper collection of original signatures, this year as it goes on tour around Ireland for the first time. Starting in NUI Maynooth on St. Patrick’s day it then travels to Westport House, Co. Mayo; Derrynane, Co. Kerry; Kilkenny; Clonmel, Co. Tipperary and Belfast. More at www.thegatheringireland.com
THE GATHERING CRUISE
THE GATHERING DUBLIN
From July 17th - August 1st the high seas will come alive as over one hundred cruising boats form a colourful flotilla along the east and south coasts of Ireland in July as part of the Gathering Cruise! After sailing from the UK in majestic formation, the Gathering Cruise officially starts in Dublin, making a magnificent sight as it proudly sails south. Be on hand to welcome them in ports along the way. The flotilla will assemble in Kinsale, Co. Cork, for a welcome Gathering Cruise party, before exploring the South West coastline for a week. They meet again in Dingle, Co. Kerry, for a Gathering Cruise farewell.
The Gathering Dublin is luring people who love Ireland home for a year of 25 fantastic invitational events. Teams from all over the world will “Meet to Compete” in South Dublin - and you are invited to join in the craic and fun too! Why not take in a game and see top international talent compete in their chosen field at super venues including Tallaght Stadium, The National Basketball Arena, and the Civic Theatre. There is lots to choose from with American Football and Baseball games, golf and cricket tournaments, bridge and art competitions, and the good old Irish favourite the Feis!
See www.thegatheringireland.com
See www.thegatheringireland.com
SPORTING GATHERINGS
ST. PATRICK’S FESTIVAL
Make this the year you get out and cheer at a great sporting occasion! 2013 sees Ireland host some wonderful sporting events, so lend your support whilst soaking up the atmosphere! May 17th -18th sees the European Club Rugby Finals take place in Dublin, with the Amlin Challenge Cup in the RDS on the 17th and the Heineken Cup Final in the Aviva Stadium the following day, while Ireland’s top hurlers take to the Cooley Mountains on August 3rd for the All Ireland Poc Fada. If you love track and field this year’s European Athletics Team Championships take place in Santry Stadium with 650 top athletes participating. Marathon runners with Irish connections from all over the world will take part in the Inaugural Tralee International Marathon on March 16th.
This year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is going to be extra special! For the first time ever the St. Patrick’s Festival is inviting 8,000 people from around the world to march in the Parade in Dublin on March 17th. Give them a great welcome and soak up the green atmosphere as the Parade passes many historic city landmarks. Also this year there will be a free cultural programme titled “I Love My City”. Dublin’s rich heritage will be celebrated with a variety of events in beautiful venues and spaces in Dublin’s historic Georgian Quarter, stretching from Merrion Square to Kildare Street. See www.thegatheringireland.com
See www.thegatheringireland.com
Find out more about The Gathering 2013 and how to be part of it www.thegatheringireland.com
JANUARY// 2013 NYE DUBLIN 2013 Various locations, Dublin City Centre
SHANNONSIDE wINTER MUSIC wEEKEND
31 December 2012 - 1 January 2013
Sixmilebridge & Bunratty, Co. Clare
Dublin’s New Year Festival with a Countdown Concert & plenty of free events including a fireworks display, torchlit procession, 5 festival zones and the Big Brunch.
17 - 20 January This acoustic roots festival is a bluegrass hoedown, a blues jam, a traditional fleadh, a folk festival, and a classical recital all in one! Add in singer’s sessions, set dancing, poetry & unique venues and you are guaranteed a fantastic weekend!
www.nyedublin.ie
www.wmw.ie
YEATS wINTER SCHOOL GATHERING 2013
MOzART’S MASTERwORKS
Temple Bar TradFest 22 - 27 January
TEMPLE BAR TRADFEST 2013
LIMERICK RACECOURSE NATIONAL HUNT RACING
Sligo Town, Co. Sligo
St. Finian’s Lutheran Church in Ireland, Adelaide Road, Dublin 2
Temple Bar, Dublin 2
Limerick Racecourse, Patrickswell, Co. Limerick
18 - 20 January
21 - 25 January
22 - 27 January
23 January
The Yeats Winter School is designed as an interlude, which allows the visitor the opportunity to learn more about W.B. Yeats and his family against the backdrop of the places which inspired them.
An intimate concert series presenting a selection of Mozart’s superb chamber works, performed on period instruments, including a fortepiano.
Temple Bar TradFest is one of Ireland’s largest festivals of Irish Music and Culture. Experience Irish Music in Ireland’s most iconic buildings, enjoy 200 free events, music trail, street performances and more!
Enjoy midweek National Hunt Racing at Limerick Racecourse this January. Racing begins at 12.30pm.
www.yeats-sligo.com
www.irishbaroqueorchestra.com
www.templebartrad.com
www.limerickraces.ie
ARDARA COUNTRY & wESTERN wEEKEND
MUSIC FOR GALwAY MIDwINTER FESTIVAL
Ardara, Co. Donegal
Galway City, Co. Galway
25 - 27 January
25 - 27 January
Country and western weekend with workshops in jiving and line dancing, dancing sessions and pub music sessions.
Outstanding international artists come together to perform a variety of Beethoven’s masterpieces over three days. The music will be complemented by readings from letters of Beethoven, discussion and film.
www.ardara.ie
www.musicforgalway.ie
HELL & BACK Winter Challenge 27 January and 3 February
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PRO-CATHEDRAL CONCERT SERIES 2013
HELL & BACK wINTER CHALLENGE
Dublin 1
Killruddery Estate, Bray, Co. Wicklow
27 January
27 January and 3 February
St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral’s second concert series featuring Baroque choral masterworks by J.S. Bach and Handel. Under the musical direction of Blánaid Murphy, director of all choirs featured in the series.
Ireland’s toughest 10K challenge! Join this unique 10K through Killruddery 1,200 acres of torture at the foot of Little Sugarloaf! Push your physical & mental capabilities to bursting point in harsh winter conditions.
www.ctb.ie/myticket
www.hellandback.ie
Mozart’s Masterworks 21 - 25 January
More festivals and events at www.discoverireland.ie/whats-on
FEBRUARY// 2013 Sunday
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Glen of Aherlow Winter Walking Festival
Safety Direct Galway International Rally 2013
Dublin Chinese New Year Festival
Hennessy Gold Cup
Glen of Aherlow, Co. Tipperary
Galway City & County
Dublin City
Leopardstown Race Course, Foxrock, Dublin 18
1 - 3 February
2 - 3 February
8 - 18 February (tbc)
9 February
Walking Festival with 9 guided walks on the Galtees and Slievenamuck Hills. Festival base is at Aherlow House Hotel with music, Club Ceoil & a festival dinner. Courtesy bus on Saturday night for non-residents.
The opening round of the 2013 Irish Tarmac Rally Championship, with a number of the top Irish and possibly some international rally drivers competing on the stages in Galway.
Dublin Chinese New Year Festival 2013 welcomes the Year of the Snake, celebrating the best in Chinese Irish culture and entertainment.
The Hennessy Gold Cup is one of the highlights of the Irish Racing Calendar. This high class race is also seen by many as a trial for Irish contenders for the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
www.aherlow.com
www.galwayinternationalrally.com
www.cny.ie
www.goracing.ie
IRELAND VERSUS ENGLAND (Six Nations Championships) AVIVA Stadium, Dublin 4
10 February Ireland play England in the annual international rugby union competition involving six European sides. Always a competitive fixture and a great weekend.
Cork Spring Poetry Festival 13 - 16 February
www.irishrugby.ie
Tedfest 21 - 24 February
CORK SPRING POETRY FESTIVAL
JAMESON DUBLIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
NENAGH SILENT FILM FESTIVAL
Cork City
Cinemas across Dublin City
Nenagh, Co. Tipperary
DINGLE wALKING FESTIVAL - FÉILE SUÍLÓID CHORCA DHUIBHNE
13 - 16 February
14 - 24 February
14 - 17 February
Dingle, Co. Kerry
The Cork Spring Poetry Festival showcases contemporary poets of national and international renown through readings, discussions, workshops, music and film shows.
Established in 2003, The Jameson Dublin International Film Festival has fast become Ireland’s premier feature film festival and takes place in Dublin over the course of eleven days and nights in February.
Rudolf Valentino will rub shoulders with modern lovers at The Nenagh Silent Film Festival. Included are classic features, contemporary shorts, a masked ball, lectures, workshops and more.
16 - 17 February
www.corkpoetryfest.net
www.jdiff.com
www.nenaghsilentfilmfestival.com
www.dinglewalkingfestival.com
THE 14TH GATHERING TRADITIONAL FESTIVAL 2013
TEDFEST Inis Mor, Aran Islands, Co. Galway
RUSSELL MEMORIAL wEEKEND
12TH ANNUAL COROFIN TRADITIONAL FESTIVAL
21 - 24 February
Doolin, Co. Clare
Corofin, Co. Clare
INEC, Muckross Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry
Tedfest is the annual celebration of Father Ted with the Lovely Girls Contest, Ted’s Got Talent and The Craggy Cup.
22 - 25 February
25 February - 3 March
The Russell Memorial Weekend was established in 1995 to celebrate traditional music, song and dance. It is a tribute to the world famous traditional musician Micho Russell & his brothers, Packie and Gussie.
A week long festival of the best of Irish Music and Song, featuring the country’s top traditional musicians, free concerts, recitals, workshops and a great session trail in the village’s six pubs.
www.michorussellweekend.ie
www.corofintradfest.com
20 - 24 February This festival is firmly established as one of the most popular celebrations of Irish song and dance the world over. It has grown in strength since its inception way back in 1999.
www.thegathering.ie
www.tedfest.org
Discover one of the most beautiful places on earth during the Dingle Walking Festival - Féile Siúilóid Chorca Dhuibhne.
Find out more about The Gathering 2013 and how to be part of it www.thegatheringireland.com
MARCH// 2013 ST. PATRICK’S wEEK AROUND IRELAND
St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated at festivals and parades in almost every town and village throughout Ireland. For plenty of parades, activities and fun things to do visit www.discoverireland.ie
SEACHTAIN NA GAEILGE Nationwide 4 - 17 March
ENNIS BOOK CLUB FESTIVAL Ennis, Co. Clare
1 - 3 March A unique festival for book clubs and readers. A wonderful literary and social gathering with author readings, theatre, workshops and wine tastings - all in one of Ireland’s most attractive towns.
www.snag.ie
KILTIMAGH ST. PATRICK’S wEEK FESTIVAL 15 - 21 March www.kiltimagh.ie
LIMERICK ST. PATRICK’S FESTIVAL
www.ennisbookclubfestival.com
St. Patricks Festival 14 - 18 March
24TH CORK FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL
IRELAND VERSUS FRANCE (Six Nations Championships)
DUBLIN CITY FESTIVAL OF RUSSIAN CULTURE
Various venues in Cork City & County
Aviva Stadium, Dublin 4
Dublin City
15 - 18 March
3 - 10 March
9 March
9 - 15 March
www.limerick.ie/stpatricksfestival
Alliance Française de Cork will roll out the red carpet for this nationally acclaimed film festival with feature films, documentaries, shorts, cine-concerts, live audio-visual events and much more! All are welcome!
Ireland play France in the annual international rugby union competition involving six European sides. France always bring great flair to the game and a buzz to the city. A great rugby weekend.
A wealth of vibrant activities are on offer including traditional music, dance, children’s activities, lively performances, chess challenges, artisan food and cookery, cinema, informative exhibitions and lectures.
www.corkfrenchfilmfestival.com
www.irishrugby.ie
www.dublincity.ie/russianfestival
ST. PATRICK’S FESTIVAL
CONNEMARA FOUR SEASONS SPRING wALKING FESTIVAL
DINGLE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
St. Patrick’s Festival is Ireland’s leading multi-disciplinary arts festival, which takes place annually over a 4-5 day period, in celebration of Ireland’s national holiday, St. Patrick’s Day.
Connemara, Co. Galway
15 - 18 March
15 - 17 March
One of the best film festivals for content, atmosphere, location and attention to detail. Unique screening experiences, stars and talent, seminars and workshops and home to The Gregory Peck Award.
www.stpatricksfestival.ie
www.discoverireland.ie/connemara
CORK ST. PATRICK’S FESTIVAL 16 - 18 March www.corkstpatricksfestival.ie
wATERFORD CITY ST. PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVAL 17 March www.discoverwaterfordcity.ie
wEXFORD ST. PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVAL 17 March www.wexfordparade.com
Dublin City
14 - 18 March
Explore Connemara with guides Michael Gibbons & Gerry McCluskey providing a unique insight into the rich cultural, archaeological and historic heritage of this most beautiful and wild part of the country.
Dingle, Co. Kerry
www.dinglefilmfestival.com
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*Bank Holiday
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GALwAY FOOD FESTIVAL
NORTH LEITRIM GLENS 19TH wALKING FESTIVAL 2013
EASTER RACING
Galway City, Co. Galway
28 March - 1 April
North Leitrim
30 March - 3 April
5 days of fantastic food and free, family-friendly events on the Easter Bank Holiday Weekend, showcasing the best that Galway has to offer. Featuring over 100 individual events. Don’t miss it!
30 - 31 March
Take in some racing this Easter at Fairyhouse (31 March-2 April) with 3 days of high class horse racing, Ladies Day and Ladbrokes Irish Grand National on Easter Monday. Or why not head southwards for some fun at the Racing Home for Easter Festival in Mallow, Co. Cork (30 March-3 April). This five day festival is sure to entertain all - focusing on racing, heritage, culture and style!
North Leitrim Glens 19th Walking Festival offers both a long and a short hill walk each day in the magical North Leitrim Glens. Also a guided Sunday Ramble suitable for all for all abilities.
Fairyhouse, Co. Meath and Mallow Co. Cork
www.fairyhouse.ie www.galwayfoodfestival.com
http://sites.google.com/site/hshillwalkers
www.racinghomeforeaster.com
More festivals and events at www.discoverireland.ie/whats-on
Fairyhouse Easter Festival 31 March - 2 April
31 *Easter Sunday
APRIL// 2013 Sunday
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Dublin: One City, One Book 2013
The International Pan Celtic Festival Carlow 2013
Clifden Traditional Music Festival
Waterford Festival of Food
Dublin City
Carlow Town, Co. Carlow
Connemara, Co. Galway
Dungarvan, Co. Waterford
1 - 30 April
2 - 7 April
5 - 7 April
11 - 14 April
Dublin: One City, One Book 2013 will celebrate James Plunkett’s ‘Strumpet City’ with many events around the city throughout the month of April.
Celebrate the Celtic cultures of Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Cornwall, Brittany and the Isle of Man through music, song, dance and language.
Clifden Trad Fest will be a weekend of the very best of Irish traditional music, song and dance. Now in its 4th year, the festival features music sessions, concerts, workshops, outdoor gigs and more.
This popular Festival of Food is a family friendly, weekend long celebration of locally produced and prepared food. Visit and enjoy a wide range of great indoor and outdoor events.
www.dublinonecityonebook.ie
www.panceltic.ie
www.clifdentradfest.com
www.waterfordfestivaloffood.com
TAKE PART
April sees a host of fantastic events for those who want to embrace the great outdoors – go on get your name down today!
BRAY TRAIL BLAzER Bray, Co. Wicklow 6 April (tbc) www.gaelforceevents.com
ELVERYS SPORTS CONNEMARA INTERNATIONAL MARATHON Maam Cross, Connemara, Co. Galway 7 April
PHASE ONE: ELECTRONIC MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim.
19 - 21 April Explorations of electronic music and art. A new festival featuring electronic music, digital and visual arts, film, performances, installations, talks, demonstrations, workshops and much more. Be part of it!
www.phaseonefestival.com
Waterford Festival of Food 11 - 14 April
www.connemarthon.com
FRANCO-IRISH LITERARY FESTIVAL
VISIT NENAGH CYCLING CLASSIC
CORK wORLD BOOK FEST 2013
Dublin City
Nenagh, Co. Tipperary
23 - 27 April
www.greatirelandrun.org
19-21 April
21 April
wICKLOw ADVENTURE RACE
The Franco-Irish Literary Festival is celebrating Europe! Due to the Irish Presidency of the EU and the Gathering Ireland, the festival opens its doors to writers from several countries in Europe.
A one day cycling festival. Whilst top athletes battle it out to win the prestigious Killoran Slate Trophy, spectators can enjoy a country market, town walk, street entertainers, live music and a family fun cycle!
A unique and lively celebration of books and reading, bringing writers and events to non-traditional and innovative settings.
www.francoirishliteraryfestival.com
www.visitnenagh.net
www.constantreader.ie
IRISH NATIONAL HUNT FESTIVAL
DUBLIN BAY PRAwN FESTIVAL
Punchestown Racecourse, Naas, Co. Kildare
CÚIRT INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF LITERATURE/ FÉILE IDIRNÁISIÚNTA LITRÍOCHTA
23 - 27 April
Galway City, Co. Galway
This 5 day festival is a national treasure mixing top class sport, fashion, food, music and the unique atmosphere that attracts over 100,000 people every year. The social and sporting highlight of the racing calendar!
23 - 28 April Ireland’s premier writer’s festival which has hosted writers, poets, playwrights, songwriters, workshops, discussions, debates and lectures in all aspects of the written word.
A celebration of all things Dublin Bay and all things fun, the festival offers an interesting mix of street food fair, in-house specialities, music, family fun and a programme of walks, talks and seaside antics.
www.galwayartscentre.ie
www.dublinbayprawnfestival.com
GREAT IRELAND RUN 2013 Phoenix Park, Dublin 8 14 April
Glendalough, Co. Wicklow 20 April www.wicklowadventurerace.com
COOLEY LEGENDS HALF MARATHON
Cork City, Co. Cork
Carlingford, Co. Louth 20 April (tbc) www.cooleylegendshalfmarathon.wordpress.com
DUNMORE EAST GOLF CLASSIC 2013 Dunmore East, Co. Waterford 28 April - 2 May www.discoverdunmore.com
www.punchestown.com
Howth, Co. Dublin
24 - 28 April
Find Moreout festivals more about and events The Gathering at www.discoverireland.ie/whats-on 2013 and how to be part of it www.thegatheringireland.com
MAY// 2013 MAY BANK HOLIDAY
The bank holiday weekend is packed full of events to keep everyone entertained, no matter what your interest. For many more suggestions and for a full list log onto www.discoverireland.ie/whats-on
FÉILE NA BEALTAINE Dingle Peninsula, Co. Kerry
2 - 6 May www.feilenabealtaine.ie
An Post Tour of Sligo Cycle Sligo
4 - 5 May
European Club Rugby Finals Weekend AVIVA Stadium, Lansdowne Road, Dublin 4
Inishowen, Co. Donegal and Derry City
17-18 May
Join the ‘Spin for All’ 10k on Saturday 4th May and cycle the 60k/100k/160k on Sunday 5th May. It is a wonderful opportunity for cyclists to enjoy leisure cycling and witness the stunning Sligo scenery.
10 - 19 May
Dublin becomes the epicentre of European club rugby with the staging of both the Heineken Cup and Amlin Challenge Cup finals in May. The RDS will be the venue for the Amlin Challenge Cup final on Friday 17 May, with the Heineken Cup showpiece going ahead the following day at the Aviva Stadium.
www.tourofsligo.ie
www.guthgafa.com
www.ercrugby.com
Celtic Series Tour de Conamara
The Lismore Music Festival
Clifden, Co. Galway
Lismore & Blackwater Valley, Co. Waterford
25 - 26 May
25 May - 2 June
Celtic Series Tour de Conamara will feature a 140km and 80km cycle sportive on Saturday 25th May in Clifden and a team trial challenge on Sunday 26th May in Carna, Connemara over 40km. Family entertainment on Sunday.
A unique summer music opera festival in the stunning surroundings of Lismore Castle and Gardens and along the Blackwater River.
www.celticseries.ie
www.lismoremusicfestival.com
The Cat Laughs Comedy Festival
CARTELL.IE RALLY OF THE LAKES Killarney, Co. Kerry
Guth Gafa International Documentary Film Festival
A unique film event in a beautiful village with screenings for documentary lovers and film enthusiasts, discussions and debates on social and environmental issues, workshops and lots of fun.
3 - 5 May www.rallyofthelakes.com
Bray Jazz Festival Bray, Co. Wicklow
3 - 5 May
www.brayjazz.com
SMITHWICK’S KILKENNY ROOTS FESTIVAL Various venues in Kilkenny City, Co. Kilkenny
3 - 6 May www.kilkennyroots.com
RIVERFEST 2013 Limerick City, Co. Limerick
3 - 6 May
www.riverfest.ie
SLIEVE BLOOM WALKING FESTIVAL
A CHORAL FEAST A choral feast for the ears - make sure to take in one of the many choral festivals. The Cork International Choral Festival (1 - 5 May) starts this month and is followed the next week by the Navan Choral Festival (9 - 12 May) which also plays host to the National Choir of the Year Competition. In the North West don’t miss the Mayo International Choral Festival (23 - 26 May) while the Limerick Sings International Choral Festival (31 May - 3 June) sees us into June and runs over the bank holiday weekend. www.corkchoral.ie www.mayochoral.com www.limericksings.com www.navanchoralfestival.com
Slieve Bloom Mountains, Co. Offaly
3 - 6 May www.slievebloom.ie
THE CUP OF TAE FESTIVAL
Listowel Writers’ Week
Ardara, Co. Donegal
Listowel, Co. Kerry
Tattersalls International Horse Trials and Country Fair
3 - 6 May
29 May - 2 June
Ratoath, Co. Meath
30 May - 3 June
An internationally acclaimed literary festival devoted to bringing together writers and audiences at unique and innovative events in the surroundings of Listowel, Co. Kerry.
30 May - 2 June
An internationally acclaimed festival which showcases the very best in Irish and international comedy acts set in various venues around the beautiful medieval city of Kilkenny.
www.cupoftaefestival.com
FESTIVAL OF THE FIRES The Hill of Uisneach, Co. Westmeath
4 - 5 May www.festivalofthefires.com
GREAT LIMERICK RUN Limerick City, Co. Limerick
5 May www.greatlimerickrun.com
www.writersweek.ie
The family will love the thrills and spills of this fabulous event. You don’t have to be an equestrian guru to enjoy the weekend. This event combines the highest standard of equestrian sports with good food, shopping, entertainment and family fun - a weekend not to be missed! www.tattshorsetrials.ie
Kilkenny City, Co. Kilkenny
www.thecatlaughs.com
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RORY GALLAGHER INTERNATIONAL TRIBUTE FESTIVAL 2013
BLOOM
Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal
Ireland’s premier gardening and horticulture event, combining food, craft, and entertainment with show gardens, live stages and family activities.
30 May - 2 June Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival celebrates Ireland’s greatest rock ‘n blues star in his native town of Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal. This is the biggest gathering of rock blues fans in Ireland. www.goingtomyhometown.com
Phoenix Park, Dublin 8
30 May - 3 June
www.bloominthepark.com
Bloom 30 May - 3 June
More festivals and events at www.discoverireland.ie/whats-on
JUNE// 2013 Sunday
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TriAthy 2013 Athy, Co. Kildare
Ocean to City - Cork’s Maritime Festival
Flora Women’s Mini Marathon
John Ford Ireland Symposium
1 June
Cork City & County
Ireland’s fastest triathlon returns to the River Barrow at Athy for the seventh year running of this popular event. There’s a race for everyone at TriAthy - from the absolute beginner to the seasoned veteran. Join in!
Starting Fitzwilliam Street Dublin and finishing at St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2
Various venues in Dublin City Centre
1 - 8 June (tbc)
www.triathy.com
Ocean to City Maritime Festival celebrates Cork’s heritage and harbour. The original ‘An Rás Mór’ rowing race has grown into a festival including boat trips, harbour & navy tours, workshops, films and family fun.
www.oceantocity.com
3 June Women’s 10k race, with most of the participants fundraising for the charity of their choice. Millions of euros have been collected for charity from this event over the past 30 years.
www.florawomensminimarathon.ie
6 - 9 June (tbc) A four-day symposium and festival celebrating one of the world’s greatest film directors of all time, the legendary Irish American – John Ford. In addition, a week long film school ‘gathering‘ will take place, attracting leading talent and film enthusiasts from all over the world.
www.johnfordireland.org
wORLD SOUNDS
This month there is an eclectic line up of musical events showcasing singers, musicians, groups and sounds from across the globe. Whatever your taste in music there is bound to be something this June that appeals!
FORBIDDEN FRUIT MUSIC FESTIVAL
THE TÁIN MARCH Co. Louth
6 - 9 June The Táin March is a 4 day event that recreates the march of Queen Maeve of Connaught from Tulsk in Co. Roscommon to Cooley in Co. Louth to capture the Brown Bull of Cooley.
Kilmainham, Dublin 8 1 - 3 June (tbc) www.forbiddenfruit.ie
INTERNATIONAL GOSPEL CHOIR FESTIVAL Kilkenny City 13 - 16 June
www.thetainmarch.com
European Athletics Team Championships 22 - 23 June
www.kilkennygospelchoirfestival.com
HOME FROM THE SEAROSSES POINT SHANTY AND SEAFARING FESTIVAL
INTERNATIONAL qUILT FESTIVAL OF IRELAND 2013
Rosses Point, Co. Sligo 14 - 16 June www.rossespointshanty.com
CARRICK-ON-SHANNON wATER MUSIC FESTIVAL
EUROPEAN ATHLETICS TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS
NUI Galway, University Road, Co. Galway
CARLOw ARTS FESTIVAL ÉIGSE - THE BORRIS HOUSE HAY FESTIVAL
7 - 9 June 2013
Borris, Co. Carlow
22 - 23 June
Second annual quilt festival, offering the largest group of quilts ever to be assembled in Ireland, with over 17 exhibits featuring hundreds of quilts from all over the world.
8 - 9 June
Europe’s premier international team athletics competition involving 12 of the top nations in the continent. This will be the highest quality athletics competition ever to take place in Ireland.
Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim 24 - 30 June www.carrickonshannonwatermusic.com
DROGHEDA SAMBA FESTIVAL Drogheda, Co. Louth 28 - 30 June
This weekend brings together leading international writers with the finest Irish scribes in a feast of talk, memoir, fiction, debate, film, comedy and reading.
Santry, Dublin 9
www.athleticsireland.ie www.iqfoi.com
www.eigsecarlow.ie
www.dublinathletics2013.ie
DISCOVER IRELAND IRISH OPEN (GOLF)
DUBAI DUTY FREE IRISH DERBY
www.droghedasamba.com
SEA SESSIONS SURF AND MUSIC FESTIVAL 2013
MIDSUMMER FESTIVALS
Bundoran, Co. Donegal 28 - 30 June (tbc)
The 21st of June is midsummer and what better way to celebrate than taking in one of the many festivals happening across the country? Why not visit Galway Sessions (17 - 23 June), Strawberry Fest (21 - 23 June tbc), Dublin Pride (21 - 30 June), Loughcrew Summer Solstice Festival (21 June - 14 July tbc), Love Longford Summer Festival (21 - 30 June) or Cork Midsummer Festival (21 - 30 June) and make this summer solstice one to remember.
Maynooth, Co. Kildare
The Curragh Racecourse, Co. Kildare
27 - 30 June
28 - 30 June
The 2013 Irish Open will be contested at Carton House on The Montgomerie Course, designed by 7 times European Order of Merit winner Colin Montgomerie. It’s always an exciting golf tournament with big attendances.
The most famous international horse racing event in Ireland featuring the best of racing, food, fashion and fun for all the family.
www.discoverireland.ie/whats-on
www.europeantour.com
www.curragh.ie
www.seasessions.com
wEST CORK CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL Bantry, Co. Cork 28 June - 6 July www.westcorkmusic.ie
wESTPORT FESTIVAL OF MUSIC & FOOD Westport, Co. Mayo 29 - 30 June www.westportfestival.com
Find out more about The Gathering 2013 and how to be part of it www.thegatheringireland.com
JULY// 2013 ARTS FESTIVALS
Soak up some culture at some of the many arts festivals taking place throughout the month of July. With jam packed programmes that are bound to suit everybody’s taste.
Kinsale Arts Festival 6 -14 July Great art, theatre, music, literature, fantastic food events and family fun in one of the most beautiful seaside towns in Ireland
Swift Satire Festival
Castlebar International Four Days Walking Festival
Clonmel Junction Festival 2013
A unique cultural, and fun-filled festival, dedicated to the art of satire; featuring leading satirical comedians, politicians, media and academics in celebration of the life, works and legacy of Jonathan Swift.
Castlebar, Co. Mayo
5 - 14 July
4 - 7 July Walk with the world in Castlebar during the summer of 2013 and join in the 46th Castlebar Walks. These walks are all about having fun and forging friendships that span the globe and last a lifetime.
A drama and music festival that has brought colour and diversity to the Clonmel community for the past 12 years, programming a mix of high quality theatre, comedy, music and more.
www.swiftsatirefestival.com
www.castlebar4dayswalks.com
www.junctionfestival.com
West Cork Literary Festival
Galway Film Fleadh
Bantry, Co. Cork
9 - 14 July
7 - 13 July
Ireland’s leading international film festival screens the best in Irish, European and world cinema through an all-inclusive, educational, entertaining and enjoyable programme.
Trim, Co. Meath
4 - 7 July
Clonmel, Co. Tipperary
www.kinsaleartsfestival.com
Earagail Arts Festival 6 - 21 July (tbc) Music, theatre, children's events, literature and outdoor events in various locations throughout stunning Co. Donegal. www.eaf.ie
Galway Arts Festival 15 - 28 July Celebrate the very best of the Irish and international performing and visual arts at one of Europe's leading international arts festivals www.galwayartsfestival.com
Boyle Arts Festival 25 July - 3 August Follow in the steps of Sky One's 'Moone Boy' and visit Boyle at its best during the annual Arts Festival.
Literary festival featuring an extensive programme of 3 and 5 day workshops, readings, book launches, panel discussions, editor in residence sessions, lectures, main evening events and more.
Galway City, Co. Galway
SUMMER SCHOOLS Willie Clancy Summer School Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare 6 - 14 July www.visitmiltownmalbay.ie
The Percy French Summer School and Festival Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon 8 - 12 July (tbc) www.percyfrench.ie
www.westcorkliteraryfestival.ie
www.galwayfilmfleadh.com
Laya Healthcare Street Performance World Championships
Pig ‘n’ Porter Tag Rugby Festival
Season of Yeats
Rosbrien, Co. Limerick
22 July - 5 August
www.yeats-sligo.com
Cork and Dublin
13 July (tbc)
Cork 13 - 14 July / Dublin 18 - 21 July
The world’s largest tag rugby festival with 1800 fit male and female players aged 21-35 competing to find the Champion Team. The party really kicks off in the 9000sq foot marquee when all the tagging has finished!
Sligo is the spiritual home of William Butler Yeats and his artist brother, Jack B. Yeats. Both have a life history inextricably linked with Sligo. Season of Yeats…. is the exciting festival in Sligo celebrating the link between the Yeats brothers William Butler and Jack B and Sligo. Featuring a mix of theatre, music, film, readings and visual art.
O'Carolan Harp and Traditional Music Festival Summer School
www.boylearts.com
This free family festival brings jaw-dropping jugglers, awe-inspiring acrobats and spine-tingling sword swallowers to Ireland to compete for the Street Performance World Champion title. www.spwc.ie
www.tagrugby.ie
Various Venues, Co. Sligo
www.seasonofyeats.com
Yeats International summer school Sligo Town. Co. Sligo 28 July - 9 August
Keadue, Co. Roscommon 29 July - 5 August www.ocarolanharpfestival.ie
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KILLARNEY SUMMERFEST Killarney, Co Kerry.
GALwAY HORSE RACING FESTIVAL
27 July - 5 August
Ballybrit, Galway
Killarney Summerfest is one of Ireland’s premier festivals bursting with an eclectic range of activities to appeal to all ages and tastes. Enjoy an array of free family entertainment and outdoor music.
29 July - 4 August
www.killarneysummerfest.com
The famous Galway Festival is undoubtedly the highpoint of the summer season with seven glorious days and nights of top class racing. Galway will be buzzing!
www.goracing.ie
Kinsale Arts Festival 6 - 14 July
More festivals and events at www.discoverireland.ie/whats-on
AUGUST// 2013 Sunday
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Ballyshannon Folk & Traditional Music Festival Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal
1 - 4 August A sublime festival which promotes the very best in Folk & Traditional Irish music.
www.ballyshannonfolkfestival.com
Big House Festival
Waterford Spraoi International Street Arts Festival
The Joe Dolan Mullingar Festival
Big House Festival throws open the doors and grounds of Castletown House for a weekend celebration that continues a 300 year old tradition of arts and entertainment in Ireland’s only true palace.
Waterford City, Co. Waterford
2 - 4 August
2 - 4 August
The Joe Dolan Mullingar Festival will be a midsummer mix of concerts, theatre shows, dancing and family entertainment including a farmers market. Family-fun and entertainment for those lazy days of summer.
www.theperformancecorporation.com
www.spraoi.com
Celbridge, Co. Kildare
2 - 4 August
Ireland’s specialist street theatre event offering spectacular entertainment on the streets of Ireland’s oldest city, with a stunning night-time street theatre parade with over 200 performers, floats and special effects.
Mullingar, Co. Westmeath
www.joedolan.com
DISCOVER IRELAND DUBLIN HORSE SHOw
CARLINGFORD OYSTER FESTIVAL
RDS, Dublin 4
Cooley Peninsula, Co. Louth
7 - 11 August
8 - 11 August
There’s something for everyone at the Discover Ireland Dublin Horse Show, with live music and entertainment, art, fashion, shopping, food and the best in national and international equestrian competitions.
Carlingford Oyster Festival promises four days of Oysters, Oysters, Oysters and lots of fun for all the family! Featuring Morgan’s Ocean Fresh Carlingford Oyster Pearl Competition.
www.dublinhorseshow.com
www.carlingford.ie
KILKENNY ARTS FESTIVAL Kilkenny City
9 - 18 August Ireland’s premier arts festival offering 10 days of the best of Irish and international theatre, music, film, craft, dance, literature, visual arts, street and children’s events.
www.kilkennyarts.ie
CELEBRATING OUR HERITAGE The month of August sees some exciting events celebrating our heritage, our love of country sports and our agricultural tradition. Take in an event as part of National Heritage Week (17 - 25 August) or visit our oldest festival Puck Fair (9 12 August) which celebrates its 400th anniversary this year. Why not visit Moynalty Steam Threshing (11 August), the Tullamore Show and AIB National Livestock Show (11 August) or Irish Game and Country Fair (30 August - 1 September)? www.discoverireland.ie/whats-on
ROSE OF TRALEE INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL Tralee, Co. Kerry
14 - 20 August A flagship event on the Irish festival calendar since 1959 with a magnificent line-up of entertainment for all ages with parades, air show, circus, music, funfair & the crowning of the 2013 Rose of Tralee. This year, all past roses, escorts and rose centres worldwide will also be invited to attend a Rose Gathering reunion and relive the magic of their ‘Rose’ experience. www.roseoftralee.ie
CHARLIE CHAPLIN COMEDY FILM FESTIVAL Waterville, Co. Kerry
21 - 24 August (tbc) A four day international comedy film festival and cultural event taking place in the village at the heart of the renowned Ring of Kerry. The festival celebrates the creative genius of Charlie Chaplin.
www.charliechaplincomedyfilmfestival.com
Rose of Tralee 14 - 20 August
MASTERS OF TRADITION Bantry, Co. Cork
14 - 18 August
CELTIC CUP 2013 INTERNATIONAL LACROSSE TOURNAMENT
A celebration of Irish music in its purest form. Artistic Director, Martin Hayes, gathers the finest Irish musicians and gives them an intimate space to expose the heart of traditional Irish music.
Venue tbc, Co. Dublin
www.westcorkmusic.ie
www.irelandlacrosse.ie
CHALLENGE YOURSELF Embrace the great outdoors with some fantastic events which are bound to challenge all fitness levels. Get your name down now for The Beast of Ballyhoura 2013 (2 - 4 August), Gaelforce West (17 August) or The Sean Kelly Tour of Waterford (24 - 25 August)
www.discoverireland.ie/whats-on
15 - 18 August The Celtic Cup 2013 International Lacrosse Tournament will feature the men’s national lacrosse teams of Ireland, Scotland, Wales and France, with Ireland hosting the third instalment of this major tournament.
GUINNESS INTERNATIONAL DUNMORE EAST BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL Dunmore East, Co. Waterford
22 - 25 August Fantastic Bluegrass music throughout the Village of Dunmore East for the whole weekend. All venues free!!!
www.discoverdunmore.com
Find out more about The Gathering 2013 and how to be part of it www.thegatheringireland.com
SEPTEMBER// 2013 DUBLIN FESTIVAL SEASON
There is no better time to visit Dublin than during festival season. In September and October the city is packed full of theatre and arts festivals, it really is culture at its finest.
DUBLIN FRINGE FESTIVAL 7 - 22 September
DUBLIN CULTURE NIGHT 20 September
ARTHURS DAY 26 September
CAPE CLEAR ISLAND INTERNATIONAL STORYTELLING FESTIVAL Cape Clear Island, West Cork
6 - 8 September A unique storytelling festival in a stunning setting. Each year Irish and international storytellers and musicians are invited to perform. A packed 3 days which includes walks, workshops and even set dancing! www.capeclearstorytelling.com
Dublin Fringe Festival 7 - 22 September
DUBLIN THEATRE FESTIVAL 26 September - 13 October And also across the city look out for Mountains to Sea DLR Book Festival, Oktoberfest, Dublin Fashion Festival, Hard Working Class Heroes and the Darklight Festival www.dublinfestivalseason.com
MONAGHAN RHYTHM & BLUES FESTIVAL HARVEST TIME BLUES
ACHILL ROAR ADVENTURE RACE
GAELIC SPORTS EVENTS
Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo
Monaghan Town, Co. Monaghan
7 September (tbc)
6 - 8 September
The Achill ROAR Adventure Race is one of Ireland’s best and most popular one day adventure races with a choice of 3 race distances to suit all levels of athletes.
The GAA Hurling and Football Championships culminate with the exciting All-Ireland finals being staged in Croke Park, Dublin (8 and 22 September). Also don’t miss the Aer Lingus International Hurling Festival (18 - 21 September) which sees the best hurlers from across the globe descending on Galway for a festival of ceol, craic and culture, as well as the first hurling competition of its kind.
A 3 day festival of Blues Music, celebrating the original art form that gave birth to Rock & Roll. Late night marquee with music until 3am; top acoustic acts in The Market House; and 11 great blues acts in 7 great venues with no cover charge!
www.gaa.ie www.thegatheringireland.com www.roar.ie
www.harvestblues.ie
Dingle, Co. Kerry
36TH CLIFDEN ARTS FESTIVAL
TARA FESTIVAL OF THE HIGH KINGS
CORONA FASTNET SHORT FILM FESTIVAL
12 - 15 September (tbc)
Clifden, Co. Galway
Hill of Tara, Co. Meath
Schull, Co. Cork
The 3rd year of Dingle Tradfest promises to be bigger than ever with the addition of The Wanderer’s Return sessions to the line-up. Dingle will be the hub of musical activity with sessions, concerts and more!
19 - 29 September
21 September
22 - 26 September
Poets, writers, thespians, visual artists, classical musicians, playwrights and musical groups of every genre descend on the seaside town of Clifden for the annual Clifden Arts Festival, now in its 36th year.
You are invited to relive all the excitement, drama, colour and majesty of crowning a High King of Ireland at the Tara Festival of the High Kings. Tara is known throughout history as being a major site of cultural, political and religious meetings and now its unique story will be told through pageantry, drama, music, traditional crafts and sports. This is a family friendly celebration which will enthral everyone!
Film festival dedicated to bringing together established and first-time filmmakers to celebrate short film. Screenings, workshops, premiers, author readings, discussions, puppet shows and family activities.
www.clifdenartsweek.ie
www.discoverireland.ie/whats-on
www.fastnetshortfilmfestival.com
DINGLE TRADFEST 2013
www.dingletradfest.com
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National Ploughing Championships
Limerick Jazz Festival Various venues in Limerick City
Sligo Festival of Baroque Music
Ratheniska, Stradbally, Co. Laois
27 - 29 September
Sligo Town, Sligo
24 - 26 September
Limerick will host its 2nd Jazz Festival in September in various venues around the city. It will feature national as well as local acts and artists from the US and UK. Full line up of acts will be announced later in the year.
27 - 29 September
Styled as Ireland’s Farming Festival, the Championships showcase the very best of Irish food, farming and culture. It is a must attend event for those interested in motoring, fashion, machinery livestock, music and shopping.
www.npa.ie
www.limerickjazzfestival.com
Focus on Food
Festival of baroque music featuring 2 major performers: the celebrated French cellist Ophélie Gaillard and Spanish soprano Nuria Rial – both appearing for the first time in Ireland.
September sees an array of food festivals popping up all over the country. Tantalise your taste buds with a visit to the Clarenbridge Oyster Festival (7 - 15 September), the Westport Food Festival (6 - 8 September), the Waterford Harvest Festival (9 - 15 September), A Taste Of West Cork (9 - 15 September), Midleton Food and Drink Festival (14 September), Dunshaughlin Harvest Festival (26 - 29 September) or the Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival (26 - 29 September)
www.sligobaroquefestival.com
www.discoverireland.ie/food
More festivals and events at www.discoverireland.ie/whats-on
OCTOBER// 2013 Sunday
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*October Bank Holiday
Cork Folk Festival Cork City
Dingle Peninsula Food Festival
Helly Hansen Killarney Adventure Race
Wexford Fringe Festival
2 - 6 October
Dingle, Co. Kerry
Killarney, Co. Kerry
Wexford Town and County
The Cork Folk Festival is an annual music event, now in its 34th year, the festival is regarded as one of the most important and exciting folk and traditional music events in Ireland.
4 - 6 October
5 October
18 October - 3 November (tbc)
Taste trails, food markets, cookery demonstrations, food workshops, wine and artisan beer & cider tastings, kids entertainment, live music and much more it must be the Dingle Food Festival!
An adrenalin-packed day of adventure where competitors complete a choice of either 67K, 57K or 25K routes by running, hiking, cycling and kayaking across Killarney National Park. Voted ‘2011 Event of the year’ by Outsider Magazine.
Internationally regarded as one of the most energetic & fun fringe festivals in Europe by festival goers, this cultural fiesta is not to be missed.
www.dinglefood.com
www.killarneyadventurerace.ie
www.wexfordfringe.ie
www.corkfolkfestival.com
FAMILY FESTIVALS AND GHOULISH GATHERINGS
There are a host of festivals to keep the family entertained this October from Children’s Art Festivals to Halloween themed festivals:-
BABORÓ INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES Galway
14 - 20 October www.baboro.ie
THE SPIRITS OF MEATH HALLOwEEN FESTIVAL
wEXFORD FESTIVAL OPERA Wexford Opera House, Wexford Town
23 October - 3 November One of the most loved opera festivals in the world, specialising in the presentation of rarely performed opera and including a superb programme of lunchtime concerts, afternoon short works and recitals.
www.wexfordopera.com
Wexford Festival Opera 23 October - 3 November
Co. Meath
GALwAY COMEDY FESTIVAL
SAVOUR KILKENNY FOOD FESTIVAL 2013
AISLING CHILDREN'S ART FESTIVAL
Various venues, Galway City
SLIGO LIVE - IRELAND’S FOLK, ROOTS AND INDIE MUSIC FESTIVAL
23 - 28 October
Sligo Town and surrounds
23 - 28 October
Co. Longford
Annual comedy festival featuring the best international comedy superstars and homegrown talent. Held over six days over the October Bank Holiday weekend. Over 50 comedy shows and events.
23 - 28 October Celebrating the best in Irish and international folk, roots and indie music. A warm intimate festival where visitors and locals mingle freely with many of the top musicians in these fields.
A food festival with true community heart run by a voluntary committee of Kilkenny people who are passionate about food. Growing it, making it, cooking it, sharing it and eating it – all will be celebrated!
www.galwaycomedyfestival.com
www.sligolive.ie
www.savourkilkenny.com
GUINNESS CORK JAzz FESTIVAL
DUBLIN MARATHON 2013
BELVEDERE HALLOwEEN SPOOK wALKS
Cork City, Co. Cork
28 October
25 - 28 October
Mullingar, Co. Westmeath
Widely recognised as one of Europe’s top jazz festivals, the event continues to go from strength to strength with a range of jazz of wide appeal - all happening in the beautiful city of Cork in late October.
One of the great European city marathons, taking place in Dublin City on the October Bank Holiday. This will be the 34th year and it will be run through the capital’s historic Georgian streets and its magnificent Phoenix Park.
18 October - 3 November (tbc) www.meathtourism.ie
19 - 27 October (tbc) www.aislingfestival.ie
VIRGINIA PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Virginia, Co. Cavan
25 - 28 October (tbc)
Kilkenny City & County
www.virginia.ie
GALwAY ABOOO HALLOwEEN FESTIVAL Galway City
25 - 27 October www.thelatinquarter.ie
26 - 28 October www.belvedere-house.ie
SAMHAIN ABHAINN BALLINA'S HALLOwEEN FESTIVAL Ballina, Co. Mayo
Dublin City
28 - 31 October (tbc)
wALK THIS wAY Embrace autumn and take part in one of the many walking festivals happening around this time of year. Pack your bags for the East Clare Walking Festival (4 - 6 October), the Nire Valley Comeragh Mountains 20th Annual Autumn Walking Festival (11 - 13 October), the Carlow Autumn Walking Festival (11 - 13 October), the Connermara Four Seasons Autumn Walking Festival (18 - 20 October) or towards the end of the month the Footfalls Wicklow Walking Festival (25 - 28 October). www.discoverireland.ie/walking
www.discoverireland/whats-on www.guinnessjazzfestival.com
www.dublinmarathon.ie
Find out more about The Gathering 2013 and how to be part of it www.thegatheringireland.com
NOVEMBER// 2013 MAD FOR MOVIES
KILKENOMICS FESTIVAL
November sees some exciting film festivals taking place. The Corona Cork Film Festival (10 - 17 November) boasts a wide-ranging programme that includes an eclectic mix of big budget pictures, world cinema, innovative independent films, documentaries and short films from all over the globe. Meanwhile in Kilkenny, SUBTITLE European Film Festival (18 - 24 November tbc) takes places for a second year, don’t miss this unique opportunity to catch some of the most popular European films that can’t be found at the multiplexes!
7 - 10 November (tbc)
www.corkfilmfest.org www.subtitlefest.com
www.kilkenomics.com
Kilkenny City, Co. Kilkenny
Economics festival moderated by some of our brightest & funniest stand-up comedians who put economists, financial analysts and other specialists under the spotlight to talk through important issues. It’s serious, but it’s fun too!
Rugby League World Cup 9 November
25TH ANNIVERSARY SLIGO INTERNATIONAL CHORAL FESTIVAL
ALLINGHAM ARTS FESTIVAL
UPPERCHURCH wALKING wEEKEND
Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal
Upperchurch, Thurles, Co. Tipperary
Sligo Town, Co. Sligo
8 - 10 November
8 - 10 November
7 - 10 November
Allingham Arts Festival features art, writing, drama, adults and children’s workshops, evening entertainment, children’s entertainment and a craft fair. Lots of free events for all the family.
Annual walking weekend with walks to suit beginners, families and experienced walkers. Refreshments served. Set dancing classes and music sessions in local pubs.
www.sligochoralfest.com
www.allinghamartsfestival.com
www.upperchurch.ie
SNEEM INTERNATIONAL FOLKLORE & STORYTELLING FESTIVAL
RUGBY LEAGUE wORLD CUP 2013
DUBLIN BOOK FESTIVAL
Thomond Park, Limerick City
12 - 17 November (tbc)
Spirit of Voice Festival celebrates its 10th year with another exciting schedule featuring vocal performances & spoken word artists in concert & workshop events. Featuring music genres from hip-hop to Sean Nós to opera!
Various venues in Sneem, Co. Kerry
9 November
8 - 10 November
Ireland take on Australia in Group A of the Rugby League World Cup in the only game of the tournament that takes place in Ireland.
The Dublin Book Festival is a showcase for Irish Publishers. There are talks, panels, readings and workshops over the week with events for all ages and tastes. Come and join some of the foremost names in Irish writing.
www.spiritofvoice.com
www.sneemstorytellingfestival.com
www.rlwc2013.com
www.dublinbookfestival.com
Corona Cork Film Festival 10 - 17 November
SPIRIT OF VOICE FESTIVAL Galway City, Co. Galway
8 - 10 November (tbc)
Four days of music & singing, competitions, concerts with street and church performances, 50 choirs competing and €6,500 in prize money. Come back to Sligo for the Festival’s 25th anniversary & the Gathering 2013!
A weekend of concerts, workshops, lectures, walks and tours with a theme of folklore and storytelling for all ages. Performers from Ireland and abroad will be led by local well-known seanachi Batt Burns.
Temple Bar, Dublin 8
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IRISH BAROqUE ORCHESTRA AT THE ARDEE BAROqUE FESTIVAL
DUNDALK FESTIVAL OF LIGHT & CULTURE
KENMARE CHORAL FESTIVAL
Dundalk, Co. Louth
Various venues in Kenmare, Co. Kerry
Ardee, Co. Louth
22 - 24 November (tbc)
29 November - 1 December (tbc)
15 - 17 November
An event of light, music and culture involving schools, community groups and businesses with street theatre, entertainment and plenty of other cultural activity.
Following the success of the inaugural 2012 festival, 2013 will celebrate choral music at its best through performances and competitions while showcasing Kenmare, a designated Heritage Town. Don't miss out!
The Irish Baroque Orchestra takes up residence in the town of Ardee for the annual baroque festival.
www.irishbaroqueorchestra.com
www.discoverireland.ie/whats-on
www.kenmarechoralfestival.com
More festivals and events at www.discoverireland.ie/whats-on
Irish Baroque Orchestra at the Ardee Baroque Festival 15 - 17 November
DECEMBER// 2013 Sunday
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*Christmas Eve
*Christmas Day
*St. Stephen’s Day
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Winter Wonderland at Westport House
A Cork Christmas Celebration
Winterval - Ireland's Christmas Festival
Winter Wonderland in Skibbereen
Westport, Co. Mayo
Grand Parade & Bishop Lucey Park, Cork City
Waterford City, Co. Waterford
Skibbereen, Co. Cork
23 November - 24 December (weekends)
29 November - 22 December (Fridays to Sundays) (tbc)
1 - 23 December (tbc)
1 - 24 December (tbc)
Visit Westport House's Winter Wonderland where you will be met by Santa, Mrs Claus and their Elves! You will experience a blizzard of Christmas spirit as you step into the stunning 18th century House.
A Cork Christmas Celebration welcomes you home for Christmas with free family events including a festive lighting installation in Bishop Lucey Park and Christmas crafts and food markets on the Grand Parade.
Winterval is a delightful Christmas festival packed with seasonal events and activities set in unique heritage sites around Waterford City.
Santa Claus is coming to town! The elves will take you on a journey through Winter Wonderland in Skibbereen. See the polar bears, penguins, reindeer & lots more!
www.westporthouse.ie
www.corkcitycelebration.ie
www.winterval.ie
www.winterwonderlandskibb.com
CHRISTMAS CAPERS Soak up the Christmas atmosphere this December at the many festive events on around the country. For a full list of events log onto www.discoverireland.ie/whats-on
DUBLIN AT CHRISTMAS
IBO PRESENTS HANDEL'S MESSIAH Dublin City
6 December The IBO presents a period performance of Handel's famous oratoria, "Messiah", with guest conductor, choir and excellent soloists.
Dublin City
12 November - 25 December www.dublinatchristmas.ie
CHRISTMAS AND NEw YEAR IN KENMARE
www.irishbaroqueorchestra.com
Kenmare, Co. Kerry
30 November 2013 - 1 January 2014 www.kenmare.ie
CHRISTMAS wITH CREATIVE ARDAGH
Winterval - Ireland’s Christmas Festival 1 - 23 December (tbc)
ÉIGSE DHIARMUID UÍ SHÚILLEABHÁIN
CHRISTMAS RACING
Cúil Aodha / Baile Mhúirne, Co. Cork
26 - 29 December
6 - 8 December (tbc)
For wonderful racing, food, entertainment and a festive atmosphere why not pay a visit to one of the country's two Christmas Racing Festivals? Head to Limerick for the Christmas Horse Racing or Dublin for Leopardstown Christmas racing.
A traditional music, song and dance weekend to commemorate the life and work of Diarmuid Ó Súilleabhain, singer and journalist.
Ardagh, Co. Longford
14 - 15 December 2013 (tbc) www.creativeardagh.com
TINTEAN THEATRE wINTER wONDERLAND Ballybunnion, Co. Kerry
1 December
A Cork Christmas Celebration 29 November - 22 December (tbc)
Limerick, Dublin
www.limerickraces.ie www.eigse.ie
www.leopardstown.com
www.tintean.com
CHRISTMAS EVENING AT THE CASTLE Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, Bunratty, Co. Clare
1 - 23 December (selected dates) www.shannonheritage.com
DUCKETT’S GROVE CHRISTMAS CRAFT AND FOOD FAIR Rainstown, Co. Carlow
wALK KILLARNEY AT CHRISTMAS TIME
NYE DUBLIN
Killarney, Co. Kerry
31 December 2013 - 1 January 2014
27 December
Get set to ring in the New Year in Dublin. Whether you are young or old, a Dubliner or a visitor, performer or spectator, the NYE Dublin Festival has something exciting for you. Concerts, street performances and family entertainment create a special atmosphere to countdown to 2014.
Dublin City
Try a range of different walks including mountain, woodland and lakeshore guided treks. For full details of walks, routes & other adventures please see website.
8 December (tbc) www.carlowtourism.com
www.killarney.ie
Winter Wonderland at Westport House 23 November 24 December (w/ends)
www.nyedublin.ie
Find out more about The Gathering 2013 and how to be part of it www.thegatheringireland.com
2013// AT A GLANCE 31 Dec 12 -1 Jan 13 17-20 18-20 21-25 22-27 23 25-27 25-27 27 27 Jan and 3 Feb
MAY NYE Dublin Shannonside Winter Music Weekend Yeats Winter School Gathering Mozart’s Masterworks Temple Bar Tradfest Limerick Racecourse National Hunt Racing Ardara Country and Western Weekend Music for Galway Midwinter Festival Pro-Cathedral Concert Series Hell and Back Winter Challenge
FEBRUARY 1-3 Glen of Aherlow Winter Walking Festival 2-3 Safety Direct Galway International Rally 8-18 (tbc) Dublin Chinese New Year Festival 9 Hennessy Gold Cup 10 Ireland Vs England (Six Nations) 13-16 Cork Spring Poetry Festival 14-24 Jameson Dublin International Film Festival 14-17 Nenagh Silent Film Festival 16-17 Dingle Walking Festival 20-24 The 14th Gathering Traditional Festival 21-24 Tedfest 22-25 Russel Memorial Weekend 25 Feb-3 March 12th Annual Corofin Traditional Festival
MARCH 1-3 3-10 4-17 9 9-15 14-18 15-17 15-18 28 March-1 April 30 March-3 April 30-31
Ennis Book Club Festival 24th Cork French Film Festival Seachtain na Gaeilge Ireland Vs France Dublin City Festival of Russian Culture St. Patrick’s Festival Connemara Four Seasons Spring Walking Festival Dingle International Film Festival Galway Food Festival Easter Racing North Leitrim Glens 19th Walking Festival
APRIL 1-30 2-7 5-7 6 (tbc) 7 11-14 14 19-21 19-21 20 20 23-27 21 23-27 23-28 24-28 28 April-2 May
Dublin: One City, One Book The International Pan Celtic Festival Carlow Clifden Traditional Music Festival Bray Trail Blazer Elvery’s Sports Connemara International Marathon Waterford Festival of Food Great Ireland Run Franco Irish Literary Festival Phase One: Electronic Music & Arts Festival Wicklow Adventure Race Cooley Legends Half Marathon Irish National Hunt Festival Visit Nenagh Cycling Classic Cork World Book Festival Cúirt International Festival of Literature Dublin Bay Prawn Festival Dunmore East Golf Classic
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PRINTED IN IRELAND
1-5 Cork International Choral Festival 2-6 Féile na Bealtaine 3-5 Bray Jazz Festival 3-5 Cartell.ie Rally of The Lakes 3-6 The Cup of Tae Festival 3-6 Smithwick’s Kilkenny Roots Festival 3-6 Riverfest 3-6 Slieve Bloom Walking Festival 4-5 Festival of the Fires 4-5 An Post Tour of Sligo Cycle 5 Great Limerick Run 9-12 Navan Choral Festival 10-19 Guth Gafa International Documentary Film Festival 17-18 European Club Rugby Finals Weekend 23-26 Mayo International Choral Festival 25-26 Celtic Series Tour de Conamara 25 May-2 June The Lismore Music Festival 29 May-2 June Listowel Writers’ Week 30 May-2 June Tattersalls International HorseTrials & Country Fair 30 May-2 June Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival 30 May-3 June The Cat Laughs Comedy Festival 30 May-3 June Bloom 31 May-3 June Limerick Sings International Choral Festival
JUNE 1 TriAthy 1-3 (tbc) Forbidden Fruit Music Festival 1-8 (tbc) Ocean to City-Cork’s Maritime Festival 3 Flora Women’s Mini Marathon 6-9 (tbc) John Ford Symposium 6-9 The Táin March 7-9 The International Quilt Festival 8-9 Carlow Arts Festival Éigse 13-16 International Gospel Choir Festival 14-16 Home From The Sea-Rosses Point Shanty & Seafaring Festival 17-23 Galway Sessions 21-23 (tbc) Strawberry Fest 21-30 Dublin Pride 21 June-14 July (tbc) Loughcrew Summer Solstice Festival 21-30 Love Longford Summer Festival 21-30 Cork Midsummer Festival 22-23 European Athletics Team Championships 24-30 Carrick on Shannon Water Music Festival 27-30 Discover Ireland Irish Open (Golf) 28-30 Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby 28-30 Drogheda Samba Festival 28-30 (tbc) Sea Sessions Surf and Music Festival 28 June-6 July West Cork Chamber Music Festival 29-30 Westport Festival of Music and Food
JULY 4-7 4-7 5-14 6-14 6-14 6-21 (tbc) 7-13 8-12 (tbc) 9-14 Dates tbc Dates tbc Cork 13-14 July/ Dublin 18-21 July
Swift Satire Festival Castlebar International Four DaysWalking Festival Clonmel Junction Festival Kinsale Arts Festival Willie Clancy Summer School Earagail Arts Festival West Cork Literary Festival The Percy French Summer School & Festival Galway Film Fleadh Pig N Porter Tag Rugby Festival Seasons of Yeats Laya Healthcare Street Performance World Championships
15-28 25 July-3 Aug 27 July-5 Aug 28 July-9 Aug 29 July-4 Aug 29 July-5 Aug
Galway Arts Festival Boyle Arts Festival Killarney Summerfest Yeats International Summer School Galway Horse Racing Festival O’Carolan Harp and Traditional Music Festival Summer School
AUGUST 1-4 Ballyshannon Folk and Traditional Music Festival 2-4 The Beast of Ballyhoura 2-4 The Joe Dolan Mullingar Festival 2-4 Big House Festival 2-4 Waterford Spraoi International StreetArts Festival 7-11 Discover Ireland Dublin Horse Show 8-11 Carlingford Oyster Festival 9-12 Puck Fair 9-18 Kilkenny Arts Festival 11 Moynalty Steam Threshing 11 The Tullamore Show and AIB National Livestock Show 14-18 Masters of Tradition 14-20 Rose of Tralee International Festival 15-18 Celtic Cup 2013 International Lacross Tournament 17 Gaelforce West 17-25 National Heritage Week 21-24 (tbc) Charlie Chaplin Comedy Film Festival 22-25 Guinness International Dunmore East Bluegrass Festival 24-25 The Sean Kelly Tour of Waterford 30 Aug-1 Sept Irish Game and Country Fair
SEPTEMBER 6-8 6-8 6-8 7 (tbc) 7-15 7-22 8 9-15 9-15 12-15 (tbc) 14 18-21 19-29 20 21 22 22-26 24-26 26 26 Sept-13 Oct 26-29 27-29 27-29 26-29
Cape Clear Island International Storytelling Festival Monaghan Rhythm and Blues Festival Westport Food Festival Achill Roar Adventure Race Clarenbridge Oyster Festival Dublin Fringe Festival GAA All Ireland Final Hurling Waterford Harvest Festival A Taste of West Cork Dingle Tradfest Midleton Food and Drink Festival Aer Lingus International Hurling Festival 36th Clifden Arts Festival Dublin Culture Night Tara Festival Of The High Kings GAA All Ireland Final Football Corona Fastnet Short Film Festival National Ploughing Championships Arthur’s Day Dublin Theatre Festival Dunshaughlin Harvest Festival Limerick Jazz Festival Sligo Festival Of Baroque Music Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival
OCTOBER 2-6 Cork Folk Festival 4-6 Dingle Peninsula Food Festival 4-6 East Clare Walking Festival 5 Helly Hansen Killarney Adventure Race 11-13 Nire Valley Comeragh Mountains 20th Annual Autumn Walking Festival 11-13 Carlow Autumn Walking Festival 14-20 Barboró International Arts Festival for Children and Families 18-20 Connemara Four Seasons Autumn Walking Festival 18 Oct-3 Nov (tbc) Wexford Fringe Festival 18 Oct-3 Nov (tbc) The Spirits of Meath Halloween Festival 19-27 Aisling Children’s Art Festival 23 Oct -3 Nov Wexford Festival Opera 23-28 Galway Comedy Festival 23-28 Sligo Live 23-28 Saviour Kilkenny Food Festival 25-27 Galway Abooo Halloween Festival 25-28 Guinness Cork Jazz Festival 25-28 Footfalls Wicklow Walking Festival 26-28 Belvedere Halloween Spook Walks 28 Dublin Marathon 28 (tbc) Virginia Pumpkin Festival 28-31 Samhain Abhainn-Ballina’s Halloween Festival
NOVEMBER 7-10 (tbc) Kilkenomics Festival 7-10 (tbc) Sligo International Choral Festival 8-10 Upperchurch Walking Weekend 8-10 (tbc) Spirit of Voice Festival 8-10 Sneem International Folklore and Storytelling Festival 8-10 (tbc) Allingham Arts Festival 9 Rugby League World Cup 10-17 Corona Cork Film Festival 12-17 (tbc) Dublin Book Festival 15-17 Irish Baroque Orchestra at Ardee Baroque Festival 18-24 (tbc) SUBTITLE European Film Festival 22-24 (tbc) Dundalk Festival of Light and Culture 29 Nov - 1 Dec Kenmare Choral Festival
DECEMBER 12 Nov - 25 Dec Dublin at Christmas 23 Nov - 24 Dec Winter Wonderland at Westport House 29 Nov - 22 Dec (tbc) A Cork Christmas Celebration 30 Nov - 1 Jan Christmas and New Year in Kenmare 1 Tintean Theatre Winter Wonderland 1-23 Christmas Evening at The Castle 1-24 (tbc) Winter Wonderland in Skibbereen 1-24 (tbc) Winterval Ireland’s Christmas Festival 6 IBO Presents Handel’s Messiah 6-8 (tbc) Éigse Dhiarmuid Uí Shúilleabháin 8 (tbc) Duckett’s Grove Christmas Craft & Food Fair 14-15 Christmas with Creative Ardagh 26-29 Limerick Christmas Horse Racing Festival 26-29 Leopardstown Christmas Horse Racing Festival 27 Walk Killarney at Christmas Time 31 Dec 13 - 1 Jan 14 NYE Dublin
Every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in the completion of this brochure. Fáilte Ireland cannot however, accept responsibility for errors or omissions but where such are brought to our attention, future publications will be amended accordingly. Some sporting activities may be their nature be hazardous and involve risk. It is recommended in such cases to take out personal accident insurance. While most operators would have public liability insurance it is desirable to check with the establishment or with the operator concerned as to the level of cover carried. It is recommended that you pre-check the details of listed events before travelling.
FI/22391-12
JANUARY