The Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival is a vibrant blend of vintage cars, quirky arts displays, and timeless performances! It’s a charming throwback to all things retro, set in the picturesque town of Birr in County Offaly. The festival has a long-standing tradition of celebrating classic vehicles, from vintage cars to steam engines, but it’s also an arts extravaganza with street performers, live music, and exhibitions. Prepare for a delightful mix of nostalgia and modern-day creativity.
If you think a festival about a goat sounds a little odd, you’re not alone—but the Puck Fair in Kerry is one of the oldest festivals in Ireland! The event honours Puck, a wild mountain goat who is crowned “King Puck” and paraded around the town in a ceremonial cage. The three-day festival includes a bustling street fair, traditional music, dancing, and, of course, the crowning of Puck himself. The whole town gets involved in this one-of-a-kind celebration.
Okay, so horse racing is hardly a new concept, but the Galway Races are a whole different ball game! Known for its exciting atmosphere and, let’s face it, slightly outrageous fashion, the races in Galway are famous for attracting some of Ireland’s most stylish (and competitive) attendees. The week-long festival has a day for everyone, including Family Day, Ladies Day, Student Day etc. Whether you’re there for the horses or the glitzy hats and fancy outfits, this week-long festival is a perfect blend of sport, glamour, and fun.
For those who love vibrant street art and a little bit of chaos, the Spraoi International Street Arts Festival in Waterford is not to be missed. Held every August, this festival brings together street performers, acrobats, musicians, and artists from all over the world to transform the city into a spectacular outdoor stage. Expect parades, pop-up performances, and jaw-dropping spectacles that will leave you in awe.
The Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival has been bringing singles together since 1850, and it’s as quirky as it sounds. Held every September, this unique event celebrates Ireland’s matchmaking tradition, where professional matchmakers help people find romance. Expect live music, céilís, and a healthy dose of matchmaking fun. Who knows? You might just find your perfect match!
The Rose of Tralee is not just any pageant; it’s a global celebration of Irish women and culture. Contestants from all over the world, who are of Irish descent, compete for the title of “Rose” by showcasing their talents, personalities, and strong connections to Irish heritage. The event includes parades, music, and plenty of glam, but it’s the heart and spirit of the festival that really shines. Plus, it’s a wonderful excuse to visit the stunning town of Tralee!
Celebrate the ancient Celtic festival of Bealtaine, which marks the start of summer! Held in various locations across Ireland, this festival is full of mystical energy, steeped in history and tradition. It features storytelling, music, dancing, and outdoor rituals that honour the land and the changing seasons. It’s a beautiful way to connect with Ireland’s deep-rooted mythology and celebrate the earth’s renewal.
Laughter is the best medicine, and the Cat Laughs Comedy Festival in Kilkenny delivers a hefty dose of humour each June! This festival is a must for comedy lovers, as it showcases some of the best stand-up acts, improv performances, and hilarious sketches that Ireland has to offer. The charming medieval city of Kilkenny provides the perfect backdrop for this laugh-out-loud celebration, where the city comes alive.
For fans of Star Wars (and Ireland), the May the Fourth Festival in County Roscommon, is a geeky dream come true. A full day of Star Wars-themed activities, including costume contests, movie screenings, and lightsabre duels, takes over the town. It’s one of the quirkiest and most fun festivals to celebrate Star Wars in true Irish style. May the force be with you!
The National Ploughing Championships is an unmissable event for anyone who loves the countryside and the age-old art of ploughing. Held in County Laois, this festival is a mix of farming traditions, competitions, and country fairs. It’s a massive gathering that attracts visitors from all over the world, featuring everything from ploughing contests to agricultural exhibitions, and even some good old-fashioned Irish dancing and music.
