shannon festivals 2011 25/01/2011 12:45 Page 1

17 – 20 St Patricks Weekend @ Birr 28 April- Fleadh by the Feale 21 Clare Marathon 16 - 20 Fleadh Cheoil an Chláir 1 June Ballyhoura Summer Active Series January Birr, Co. Clare 2 May , Co. , Co. Clare. , Co. Clare - 31 Aug Ballyhoura 13 – 16 Winter Music Weekend Celebrate St Patricks weekend with Traditional music festival and more! A road, green road and trail challenge A festival of traditional Irish music, See entry 1st June , Co. Clare traditional Irish Music throughout t: +353 (0) 86-3265762 across the beautiful Burren... do a singing & dancing, with www.ballyhouracountry.com t: +353 (0) 86-8464509 numerous venues in Birr, Co. Offaly. www.fleadhbythefeale.com full, half or mini marathon. competitions, concerts and céilithe. 2 Mardi Gras Street Party t: +353 (0) 57-9120791 t: +353 (0)87 -7779714 / (0)87-9847025 t: +353 (0) 65 -6824276 The Market Quarter, Limerick City www.wmw.ie 29 April- Burren Law School www.clareburrenmarathonchallenge.com www.comhaltas.ie Limerick’s lively Market Quarter 17 - 2 6 Clara Drama Festival 1 May Burren College of Art, Ballyvaughan 22 Munster V will echo with free music and a Scariff, Co. Clare. Debates examining the Brehon Laws. 21 The Heineken Cup Village 17 - 2 0 Summer Solstice Festival , Limerick carnival atmosphere. Enjoy a series of excellent plays. t: +353 (0) 65 -7077200 The Market Quarter, Limerick City. Honeyfitz Theatre, Lough Gur, Co. Limerick. Heineken Cup at Thomond Park www.themarketquarter.ie t: +353 (0) 61-421100 t: +353 (0) 87-2686764 www.burrenlawschool.org The Heineken Cup Village comes to Annual Summer solstice fest with the heart of Irish Rugby, for this music, workshops and a family fun 2 - 10 Willie Clancy Summer School www.thomondpark.ie 29 April- Riverfest 18 - 2 3 Tipperary Drama Festival year's Heineken Cup Final. day by the lake. 2 May Various venues within Limerick City Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare 26 Racing at Limerick Racecourse Holycross, Thurles, Co. Tipperary www.themarketquarter.ie www.loughgur.com Great fun in the heart of the City 's largest traditional music Greenmount Park, , 9 great nights of theatre by groups 18 An Post Tour de Burren Cycle Challenge for all the family, includes BBQ and 22 – 30 Fleadh Nua Festival summer school. Co. Limerick from all over Ireland. Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare international markets. , Co. Clare t: +353 (0) 65-7084281/7084148 The first race meeting of 2011 on t: 353 (0)86 -2575159 A variety of routes available - from t: +353 (0) 61-400200 Week-long festival of music & singing e: [email protected] Australia Day. www.tipperary-drama.com the Family Spin of 10k, a 60k www.festivalslimerick.com sessions, concerts, céilís, workshops, 3 Racing at Limerick Racecourse t: +353 (0) 61-320000 challenge for moderate cyclists and a 21 - 24 Fresh Film Festival open-air and events. Limerick Racecourse, Greenmount Park, www.limerickraces.ie 29 April - Slieve Bloom Walking Festival 160km route for the more experienced. Limerick City t: +353 (0) 65-6824276 Patrickswell, Co. Limerick 2 May Slieve Bloom, , Co Offaly t: +353 (0) 86-2647719 26 – 30 UnFringed Festival 2011 A national youth film festival held www.fleadhnua.com t: +353 (0) 61-320000 Good fun, beautiful scenery and www.burrencyclingclub.com Various venues in Limerick City in Limerick every March. www.limerickraces.ie Limerick’s Performance Festival has great walks to suit all abilities. 22 GAA Day at Limerick Racecourse Your Festival t: +353 (0) 61 -319555 t: +353 (0) 86-2789147 18 - 19 Shannonn Harbour 40th Boat Rally 3 Horse & Pony Event 2011 Limerick Racecourse, Greenmount Park, something for everyone, Theatre, www.freshfilmfestival.net Shannon Harbour, Co. Offaly Music, Comedy, Cinema & Readings. www.slievebloom.ie Patrickswell, Co. Limerick Athea, Co. Limerick Now a major venue for boating A truly great day of top class horse t: +353 (0) 61-319866 24 Irish Chamber Orchestra at 29 -1 May Burren Law School Conference National Hunt Racing at Limerick. enthusiasts from all over Ireland. and pony races, definitely one for www.belltable.ie University Concert Hall Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare t: +353 (0)61 -320000 Includes workshops and a barbeque. all the family. UCH, , Limerick A weekend of legal learning. www.limerickraces.ie See Entry Feb 10th. 18 - 19 Fossetts Circus at t: +353 (0) 87 -2221714 t: +353 (0) 65-7077200 22 - 25 Great Irish Links Challenge February www.irishchamberorchestra.com Castle & Folk Park www.thegablescomplex.com & Events www.burrenlawschool.org 600 golfers will play three 10 Irish Chamber Orchestra at Bunratty, Co. Clare 25 Traditional Horse Fair unforgettable rounds of golf at 4 - 9 Armada International Week of University Concert Hall 30 - 2 May Ballyhoura International t: +353 (0) 61 -360788 , Co. Clare , Ballybunion, and . Set Dancing UCH, Castletroy, Limerick Walking Festival www.shannonheritage.com www.greatirishlinkschallenge.com Spanish Point, Co. Clare Ireland's most exciting ensemble t: +353 (0) 65 -9051047 , Co. Clare 19 Limerick City Bicycle Parade A week long enjoyment of world perform the most beautiful music of Festival of walks to suit all levels. 23 - 24 An Post Rás King Johns Castle & The Peoples Park, class Set Dancing at Burkes the past three hundred years. t: +353 (0) 63-91300 Kilrush, Co. Clare. April A family friendly cycle through Armada Hotel. t: +353 (0) 61 -213130 www.ballyhouracountry.com Three great events - one great day! Guide 2011 01 - 03 Munster V (TBC) Limerick City. Free entertainment at t: +353 (0) 65-7084110 www.irishchamberorchestra.com Participate in a full marathon, half Thomond Park, Limerick 30 - 1 May Limerick Georgian Summer Market the Peoples Park from 1pm to 5pm. www.armadahotel.com Magners League at Thomond Park. No. 1 , Limerick City marathon or 6mile run or walk. 18 Munster V Edinburgh t: +353 (0) 61 -407146 6 July - Kilrush Seisiún t: +353 (0) 61-421100 Market stalls of local artisan food www.anpostras.com Thomond Park, Limerick http://www.limerick.ie/BikeParade 7 Aug Teach Ceoil, Kilrush, Co. Clare www.shortbreaksireland.ie www.thomondpark.ie producers, arts, crafts and more. Magners League at Thomond Park. 27 - 29 Irish Chamber Orchestra at UCH t: +353 (0) 65-7084110 t: +353 (0) 61 402 402 20 June Blas Summer School of Irish t: +353 (0) 61-421100 3 Munster Day at Limerick Racecourse UCH, Castletroy, Limerick www.armadahotel.com www.limerickgeorgianmarket.com - 1 July Traditional Music & Dance www.thomondpark.ie Limerick Racecourse, Greenmount Park, SeeEntry Feb 10th. Irish World Academy of Music and 7 July - Corofin Seisiún Patrickswell, Co. Limerick 30 - 2 May PJ Hayes Memorial Weekend www.irishchamberorchestra.com 20 Biking Blitz Dance, 18 Aug Teach Ceoil, Corofin, Co. Clare t: +353 (0) 61-320000 , Co. Clare Ballyhoura, Co. Limerick 28 May - Iniscealtra Festival of Arts Masterclasses in instrument, voice (Thur) t: +353 (0) 86 -8206890 The series offers a real challenge for all www.limerickraces.ie Traditional music. 6 June , Co. Clare and dance, with some of Ireland’s t: +353 (0) 61-924885 bikers with 2 categories to choose 5 Annual Student Raceday Day at Multi-disciplinary arts festival, finest musicians, singers & dancers. 9 Tri Sprint Triathlon from. Limerick Racecourse including music, dance, visual art, t: +353 (0) 61-202917 Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare Fun and Festivals for all t: +353 (0) 83 -434 6992 Limerick Racecourse, Greenmount Park, May drama, participatory workshops. www.blas.ie Discover the magnificent Burren www.biking.ie t: +353 (0) 87 -2380555 terrain while taking part. Extending from the midlands to the Atlantic Ocean and Patrickswell, Co. Limerick 1 – 31 Burren in Bloom 23 - 26 Music and Flat racing at Limerick racecourse. www.iniscealtra-artsfestival.org t: +353 (0)87-666 7015 25 – 27 Kate O’Brien Weekend Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare Arts Festival www.tritheburren.ie covering counties Clare, Limerick, North Tipperary and Limerick City t: +353 (0) 61-320000 A celebration of the arrival of the Shannonbridge, , Co. Offaly South Offaly, the Shannon Region is home to a diverse range Annual literary event in honour of www.limerickraces.ie May flowers in the Burren. Now in its 5th year, bringing 11 - 17 The and Loophead Peninsula Limerick born author Kate O’Brien. 9 - 10 The Mountain Bike Challenge - t: +353 (0)65 -7077077 June together well known artists and local Maritime Festival Weekend of festival and events. t: +353 (0) 61-407421 / (0) 61-407363 2011 [email protected] 1 June - Ballyhoura Summer Active Series musicians in unique locations. Kilkee & Peninsula, Co. Clare www.kateobrienweekend.com Killaloe, Co. Clare 31 Aug Ballyhoura, Co. Limerick t: +353 (0) 90 -9674973 Sailing, surfing, snorkelling, 1 Great Limerick Run www.shannonbridge.net monster raft building competition 25 – 27 Russell Memorial Weekend t: +353 (0)87 666 7015 Limerick City. Series of road races throughout the 2011 is gearing up to be a fantastic year for festivals so no underwater treasure hunt and more. Co. Clare www.mountainbikechallenge.ie t: +353 (0)61 -609627 Ballyhoura area ranging from 5-10km. 23 Spancill Hill Horse Fair t: +353 (0) 63-91300 e: [email protected] A weekend of traditional music, 9 - 10 The Final of the Macra na Feirme www.GreatLimerickRun.com t: +353 (0) 65 -6835483 matter what your taste, the Shannon Region has a festival to www.ballyhouracountry.com song and dance with workshops in Amateur Drama Competition e: [email protected] 11 - 2 2 Seisiún several instruments. 1 - 2 The Market Quarter International suit you. The Belltable, Limerick City 1 - 8 ColdPro 2011 Music Surf and 25 - 26 Athea Motorcycle Roadrace (Mon) Teach Ceoil, Ennistymon, Co. Clare t: +353 (0) 65-7074595 Street Markets t: +353 (0) 87 -9882055 Soul Festival Athea, Co. Limerick t: +353 (0) 87 -6937057 www.michorussellweekend.ie The Market Quarter, Limerick City With Limerick winning the European City of Sport 2011 title [email protected] A showcase of international Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare International motorcycle Featuring an unforgettable music 12 - 2 3 Miltown Malbay Seisiún 28 Feb Corofin Trad Festival 14 Irish Chamber Orchestra at foods and crafts. road race event. it has pushed Limerick’s sports-mad citizens to fever pitch! festival (4th & 5th) and the most (Thur) Spanish Point Golf Club, Co. Clare – 06 Mar Corofin, Co. Clare University Concert Hall t: +353 (0) 87-2221714 1 - 31 Bealtaine Festival - Celebrating high profile surf competition ever Irish traditional nights of Traditional music sessions. UCH, Castletroy, Limerick www.athearoadrace.com During 2011 Limerick will be alive to the excitement and Creativity in Older Age staged in Ireland. entertainment: music, song, dance t: +353 (0) 86 -6070941 See Entry Feb 10th Nationwide . t: +353 (0) 86 -0303848 24 June Festival and Summer & storytelling. www.corofintradfest.com www.irishchamberorchestra.com passion of a full year’s sporting programme. National arts festival encouraging www.coldpro2011.com - 2 July School of Music t: +353 (0) 86 -0674356 14 - 16 Éigse Michael Hartnett participation by older people. Cloughjordan, Co. Tipperary [email protected] 1 - 5 Epc European Powerlifting & single Literary Festival t: +353 (0) 1 -8057709 Music, arts, sport & lots of kids events. From toe-tapping trad, to March lift Championships 15 - 17 Pig n’ Porter Tag Rugby Festival Newcastlewest, Co. Limerick www.bealtaine.com t: +353 (0) 87 -6661337 Kilmurry Lodge Hotel, Castletroy Limerick Old Crescent RFC, Rosbrien, Limerick scrumptious food festivals and 3 – 17 Seachtain na Gailge A literary and fun filled arts festival www.cloughjordanfestival.com 2 Bank Holiday National Hunt Racing Lifters from over 13 countries intend World’s largest tag rugby festival. Various Locations with Ireland’s best & brightest writers. at Limerick Racecourse to travel to these championships to 28 June Féile Brian Ború t: +353 (0) 61 -400010 fun-filled family events, mark your Workshops, concerts, céilis, plays t: +353 (0) 61-496498 / 496300 Patrickswell, Co. Limerick compete. - 3 July Killaloe, Co. Clare & Ballina, Co. Tipperary www.pignporter.com and poetry to encourage Irish and www.eigsemichaelhartnett.ie calendar and book your festival t: +353 (0) 61 320 000 e: [email protected] Events include: history & heritage, motivate people. 15 - 17 Slieve Bloom Eco Walking Festival 15 - 17 2011 Limerick ETU Duathlon European www.limerickraces.ie arts & culture, music & t: +353 (0) 65-6846512 Slieve Bloom, Kinnitty, Co Offaly break today. Championships 2 Traditional Horse Fair entertainment, sporting & family. www.clarecoco.ie 6 - 8 Aonach Ar Siul Discover new eyes for the landscape Limerick City Centre Kilrush, Co. Clare t: +353 (0) 86 -3586293 Walking Festival of the Slieve Blooms on a sociable 4 - 6 Ennis Book Club Festival Three events running throughout t: +353 (0) 65 -9051047 www.feilebrianboru.killaloe.ie Check out Nenagh, Co. Tipperary walking weekend. Town centre venues, Ennis, Co. Clare the weekend. A festival showcasing the variety of 3 - 6 Limerick County Fleadh 28 June East Clare Seisiún t: +353 (0) 86 -2789147 www.ShortBreaksIreland.ie for t: +353 (0) 87-2262259 www.europeanduathlonchampionships.com Hospital, Co. Limerick - 9 Aug Lakeside Hotel, Killaloe, Co. Clare (Tue) www.ennisbookclubfestival.com hikes available in the local area. www.slievebloom.ie the latest special offers. 22 - 23 Strongman Champions League t: +353 (0) 87- 6789883 A festival of traditional Irish music Great Irish traditional nights of 5 - 15 West Clare Drama Festival Limerick City Centre www.nenaghwalk.ie singing & dancing, competitions, entertainment, music, song, dance 16 - 17 CELT Weekend in the Woods Doonbeg Community Hall, concerts, céilithe and more. & storytelling. Traditional Skills & Ecology Training 12 of the World's most strongest 6 - 8 Munster V Connaught (TBC) Before travelling it’s advisable to Doonbeg, Co. Clare men will again thrill crowds. t: +353 (0) 61-381269 t: +353 (0) 87 -2490603 , Scariff, Co. Clare Thomond Park, Limerick e: [email protected] See May 7-8 Three-act plays by Irish & International www.scllimerick.com 3 - 5 Irish Coffee Festival check festival details with Magners League at Thomond Park. t: +353 (0) 61 -640765 writers performed by amateur groups. Foynes, Co. Limerick 28 June Seisiún 23 The Headless Horsemen t: +353 (0) 61 -421100 www.celtnet.org organisers, the nearest Tourist t: +353 (0) 65-9055288 Festival of FREE family entertainment - 9 Aug Adare Heritage Centre, Adare, www.doonbeginfo.com Mini Adventure Race www.thomondpark.ie - street entertainment, music parades, Co. Limerick (Tuesday evenings) 15 - 17 Doonbeg Seafood Festival Information Office or online at Lough Gur and surrounding areas 7 - 8 CELT Weekend in the Woods 5 Kinvara Rock & Road Half 45km of local and scenic countryside fireworks, air display and regatta. t: +353 (0) 87-2029457 /(0) 61-396666 Doonbeg Golf Club, Co. Clare Marathon & 10K Traditional Skills & Ecology Training t: +353 (0) 69 -65416 / (0) 87 -2490830 e: [email protected] This 2 day festival with seafood, www.discoverireland.ie/shannon with some obstacles thrown in. Tuamgraney, Scariff, Co. Clare. Kinvara, Co. t: +353 (0) 86 -1775066 www.foynesfestival.com 30 June Seisiún cooking demonstrations, marine t: +353 (0)87 666 7015 Choose one from up to 15 education, music & family fun. [email protected] introductory skills courses on offer. 3 - 5 Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann - 11 Aug Devon Inn, Templeglantine, Co. Limerick www.rockandroad.ie Marian Hall, Birr, Co. Offaly (Thur) t: +353 (0) 69 -84039 e: [email protected] 24 Easter Fun & Games at t: +353 (0) 61 -640765 www.doonbeggolfclub.com 11 – 13 Burren Spring Conference Quin, Co. Clare www.celtnet.org Everything you're looking for in a e: [email protected] Burren College of Art, Ballyvaughan Activities include puppet shows, good weekend - great bands, top 21 Twilight Summer Racing This event provides a space where 8 Rare and Special Plant Fair teachers in a beautiful town. Limerick Racecourse, magic shows and much more! Birr Castle Demesne, Birr, Co. Offaly. knowledge and ideas about the t: +353 (0) 61-360788 t: +353 (0) 57-9121196 / (0) 87-9347968 July Patrickswell, Co. Limerick Burren may be shared. Sales and advice on planting and care e: [email protected] Booking: www.limerickraces.ie www.shannonheritage.com from over 40 specialist nurseries. 2 & 3 Adare Fashion & Food Festival 2011 t: +353 (0) 65-7077200 Adare, Co. Limerick t: +353 (0) 61-320000 24 - 25 Easter Egg Treasure Trail at Aillwee t: +353 (0)57 -9120336 3 - 6 The 12th Doonbeg International www.burrencollege.ie t: +353 (0)61-396666 Cave & The Burren Birds of Prey Centre www.birrcastle.com Jazz Festival 24 Athea Vintage Festival www.adare-ireland.com 12 – 13 March Racing at Limerick Racecourse Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare Doonbeg, Co. Clare Athea, Co. Limerick including Family Fun Day 11 Limerick Jazz Society Spring Programme Weekend featuring artists and A display of vintage car, tractor & A Treasure Trail of Easter fun. Dolans, Dock Road, Limerick City 1 July Seisiun 2011 Limerick Racecourse, Greenmount Park, t: +353 (0) 65-7077036 performers from Europe, U.K. and - 17 Aug Cois na hAbhna, Galway Road, Ennis, bikes. Street entertainment, live Patrickswell, Co. Limerick Jazz performed in an atmospheric Ireland. All events free of charge. music & dance and street markets. www.aillweecave.ie setting with local, national & Co. Clare (Wed & Fri nights) Racing and a family fun day. t: +353 (0) 65 -9055345 t: +353 (0) 65 -6824276 t: +353 (0)87-2221714 25 Cartoon Capers at & international performers. t: +353 (0) 61-320000 www.doonbegjazz.com www.coisnahabhna.ie e: [email protected] www.limerickraces.ie Folk Park,Co. Clare, t: +353 (0) 87 -4149441 Bunratty, Co. Clare www.limerickjazz.com 11& 17 Twilight Summer Racing 1 - 3 Féile Sona 24 South East Clare Agricultural Show 17 – 20 Limerick St. Patrick's Festival Enjoy live shows, face painting, Limerick Racecourse, Greenmount Park, Kilrush, Co. Clare Killaloe, Co. Clare Limerick City 16 - 2 0 County Fleadh Annual show with events for horses, kiddies disco and much more! Kilfenora, Co. Clare Patrickswell, Co. Limerick 3 day Family Fun Festival in the St. Patrick's Day parade, international t: +353 (0) 61-360788 Evening Racing with live Music. maritime town, with activities for ponies, showjumping, cattle, band parade competition, recitals etc. Music, Song & Dance Competitions, novelty events & much more. www.shannonheritage.com informal sessions & open air music. Booking on www.limerickraces.ie every generation. t: +353 (0) 61-400200 t: +353 (0) 86 -2253549 t: +353 (0) 61-377778 or 25 Manister Spring Fair t: +353 (0) 65 -6824276 15 - 16 Bloomsday in www.festivalslimerick.com www.facebook/feilesona +353 (0) 87-1312653 Manister, Co. Limerick www.coisnahabhna.ie Bruff, Co. Limerick www.bridgetownshow.com 17 St. Patrick’s Celebrations at A day of Family Fun. A celebration of the works of James 1 - 3 Ennis Street Festival Bunratty Castle & Folk Park 20 – 22 Burren Slow Food Festival 25 July - Summer Music on the Shannon t: +353 (0) -86 6063819 , Co. Clare Joyce in words, music, food and Ennis, Co. Clare Bunratty Co. Clare e: [email protected] drama; the "Bloomsday of the West". Multi cultural celebration of 14 A u g University of Limerick, Limerick Enjoy all that’s Irish! Markets, demonstrations, BBQs, kids Workshops & performances including cooking, talks and lots of food and t: +353 (0) 87-2127521 art, music & dance in a kaleidoscope t: +353 (0) 61-360788 www.bruffbloomsday.blogspot.com of live acts and workshops. children's opera theatre and festival www.shannonheritage.com fun for all! t: +353 (0)65 7087566 t: +353 (0) 65-7074432 t: +353 (0) 65 -6893966 www.ennisstreetfestival.com www.slowfoodclare.com shannon festivals 2011 25/01/2011 12:45 Page 2

29 - 31 Scariff Harbour Festival 20 - 21 Limerick Georgian Harvest Market 25 Traditional Harvest Day 28 - 31 Willie Keane Memorial Weekend 4 - 23 Santa at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park Daghdha Dance Company Thurles Greyhound Stadium Scariff, Co. Clare No. 1 Pery Square, Limerick City Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Co. Clare Doonbeg, Co. Clare Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Co. Clare Markets Johns Square, Limerick City Thurles A varied programme of activities, Including local artisan food See old style threshing demonstra- 4 days commemorating the legendary See Santa Claus and his elves, Mrs. Limerick Milk Market t: +353 (0)61-467872 t: +353 (0)61-448040 arts, music and entertainment producers, arts & crafts and tions, vintage machinery, sheaf dancer, Willie Keane. Sessions, Claus in her kitchen, storytelling, live Cornmarket Row, Limerick City. www.daghdha.ie www.igb.ie inspired by the “lake” theme. seasonal gifts with a difference. throwing competitions, Irish music workshops and ceilithe puppet shows. Reservations necessary. Fri, Sat & Sun weekly Dolans Pub & Warehouse University Concert Hall, Limerick t: +353 (0) 61-921685 t: +353 (0)61-402402 and dancing and much more! t: +353 (0) 87 998 5427 t: +353 (0) 61-360 788 t: +353 (0) 61-214 782 Dock Road, Limerick City Castletroy, Limerick City www.scariff.com www.limerickgeorgianmarket.com t: +353 (0) 61-360788 www.williekeanememorialweekend.com www.shannonheritage.com www.milkmarketlimerick.ie t: +353 (0)61 314483 t: +353 (0)61 331549 www.shannonheritage.com 29 Jul - Athea Trad Feile Festival 20 - 28 National Heritage Week 29 - 30 The Market Quarter Halloween Festival www.dolanspub.com www.uch.ie 3 - 4 Doonbeg Christmas Market Artisans Craft Fair 1 Aug Athea, Co. Limerick Nationwide 25 - 30 41st Irish Hot Air Balloon The Market Quarter, Limerick City 11 - 12 Doonbeg Golf Resort, Co. Clare Limerick Milk Market, Limerick City Medieval Banquet West County Hotel Playing host to top class musicians and Celebrates Ireland's rich natural, Championships Inviting all that is spooky to the streets Traditional Christmas market with fine 17 Mar & last Thurs of each month Co. Clare Ennis, Co. Clare dancers, celebrating national culture. cultural and built heritage with over Birr, Co. Offaly of Limerick this Halloween for a wares & handmade crafts. from April t: +353 (0)61-360788 t: +353 (0)65-6828421 t: +353 (0) 87 -2221714 1300 events for all ages & interests. Beautiful baloons launch from Birr weekend of devilish fun! t: +353 (0) 65-905 5602 t: +353 (0) 86-353 8928 www.shannonheritage.com www.lynchotels.com e: [email protected] www.heritageweek.ie Castle Demesne, bringing a stunning e: [email protected] www.doonbeggolfclub.com www.artisanscraftfair.com display of colour to the midland skies. Friars Gate Theatre & Arts The White House 29 - The Beast of Ballyhoura 21 Sky ride Etape Hibernina 30 - 31 Annual Craft Fair t: +353 (0) 57-9120336 9-11 Ballyvaughan Christmas Event Kilrush Farmers Market 52 O'Connell St, Limerick City 1 Aug Adventure Weekend Start/Finish at Ennis, Co. Clare Castle Oaks Hotel, Castleconnell, Co. Limerick www.birrcastle.com 16-18 Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare The Square, Kilrush, Co. Clare t: +353 (0)63-98727 t: +353(0)61-412377 Counties: Limerick & Tipperary 82 mile closed road cycle event 2 day craft fair in Castleconnell, one Enjoy christmas markets, Christmas Every Thursday 9am - 2pm www.friarsgate.ie 2 top class adventure races which through North and West Clare of the biggest in Munster. 29 Ballyhoura Screamer decoration workshops, cookery classes, t: +353 (0)86-8235598 include mountain biking, hill running, starting and finishing in Ennis Town. Ballyhoura, , Co. Limerick. t: +353 (0) 61-377 810 Honey Fitz Theatre choral recitals and concerts. Ennis Farmers Market Regular Events kayaking, abseiling & orienteering. www.etapehibernia.com Two stage (day & night) mountain e: [email protected] Lough Gur, Co. Limerick t: +353 (0) 63-91300 t: +353 (0) 65-7077377 Upper Market St, Ennis, Co. Clare t: +353 (0)61-385386 21 - 27 Kilmurry Harvest Festival bike race covering Ballyhoura Forest. 31 Halloween Fun and Games at Bunratty 'On The Nail' Literary Event www.ballyhourabeast.com e: [email protected] Every Friday 8am to 2pm www.loughgur.com/honey-fitz-theatre Kilmurry, Sixmilebridge, Co. Clare t: 353 (0)63 -91300 Castle and Folk Park The Loft Venue, Georges’s Quay, Limerick 31 - 1 Aug Lughnasa Festival t: +353 (0)86-1597630 Great craic and lots of attractions for www.ballyhouracountry.com Ennis, Co. Clare 10 - 11 Birr’s Magical Castle Impact Theatre Jan - Dec (1st Thurs each month) Craggaunowen, near Quin, Co. Clare all ages. Proceeds to local causes. Activities include children's fancy dress Birr Castle Demesne, Birr, Co. Offaly Doolin Market and Craft Fair Limerick City Centre Re-enactions from the Bronze Age 30 - 2 Oct Queen of Burren Festival Weekend '‘On The Nail’ is a literary event catering t: +353 (0) 87-9671623 competition, magic shows, face painting, Visit Santa and Mrs Claus in the castle Russell Community Centre, Doolin, t: +353 (0)86-3641441 to Medieval times. Includes combat Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare for poetry, prose and all creative writing. www.kilmurry.com Halloween games and much more! by a great log fire. A special elf will Co Clare demonstrations, Brehon law trials. t: 353 (0)65 -7074696 Irish Harp Centre & Music School Guest readers and open-mic. t: +353 (0) 61-360 788 guide you on your tour. Every Saturday 10am - 4pm (Jun – Aug) t: +353 (0) 61 -360788 26 - 28 Singlespeed World Championships [email protected] Castleconnell, Co. Limerick t: +353(0) 87- 299 6409 www.shannonheritage.com www.birrcastle.com t: +353(0)87-9136766 www.shannonheritage.com www.onthenailreadings.blogspot.com Ballyhoura, Co. Limerick www.doolinmarket.com t: +353 (0)61 372777 A three day international single- 31 Halloween in Birr Castle & the 10 - 11 Santa Claus at Atlantic AirVenture www.irishharpcentre.com 31 - 5 Aug Rose of Clare O’Briens Tower 1835 – 2010 175 years speed mountain bike festival in October Haunted Gardens 17 - 18 Shannon, Co. Clare Miltown Malbay Farmers Market , Co. Clare Irish World Academy of Music Visitor Centre, Ballyhoura. Birr Castle Demesne, Birr, Co. Offaly Visit Santa in his BAC 1-11 Flight Deck. Fair Green, Ennistymon Road, t: +353 (0) 86 -0536615 1 - 31 National Children's Book Festival and Dance All Year www.sswc2011.ie Be spooked at Birr Castle on Halloween Model aircraft display. Fun for all the Miltown Malbay, Co Clare www.cooraclare.com Nationwide University of Limerick Panoramic viewing and photo Night! For families with children 10 family. Reservations necessary Every Friday 4.30 p.m. – 7pm (Mar - Dec) 27 - 28 Irish Game and Country Fair Storytelling festival of +353 (0)61-202590 opportunities from the top of the Ciffs years and younger. Booking essential. t: +353 (0)61-363687 / (0)87-203 7487 t: +353 (0)65-9056611 / 086-8235598 Birr Castle Demesne, Birr, Co. Offaly international renown. www.irishworldacademy.ie of Moher’s first visitor centre, 175 years t: +353 (0) 57-912 0336 www.atlanticaerventure.com www.eiri.org August Offering a rich mix of country sports, t: +353 (0) 1-872 7475 old. The O’Briens Story in Clare, family www.birrcastle.com Knappogue Medieval Castle Banquet medieval and lifestyle displays & www.childrensbooksireland.ie 11 Santa Claus Visit to Killaloe Farmers Market name history, O’Briens tower gifts. Date TBC Limerick Masters Swimming Club: Shannon, Co. Clare Quin www: cliffsofmoher.ie attractions. 1 - 2 CELT Weekend in the Woods Traditional 31 Oct Design Week 2011 Killaloe, Co. Clare Thomond Swim Hugely popular day for children and +353 (0)61-360788 t: +353 (0) 48-90483873 Skills and Ecology Training - 06 Nov Nationwide Every Sunday 11am - 3pm Sunday Sessions @ Gallaghers Limerick City parents alike. Santa’s Cave, storytelling www.shannonheritage.com www.irishgameandcountryfair.com Tuamgraney, Scariff, Co. Clare Celebration of Irish design, and its www.bordbia.ie/aboutfood/ Gallaghers Bar, Kilkishen, Co. Clare Runs from the slip at St. Michael’s and disco music. See May 7-8. positive impact on all our lives farmersmarkets/pages Limerick Greyhound Stadium Every Sunday 7–10 p.m. from Sept - March Boat Club to Thomond Bridge and 27 - 28 Limerick Agricultural Show t: +353 (0)86 868 0593 t: 353 (0) 61-640 765 t: +353 (0) 1-489 3650 Dock Road Traditional session - all ages and levels. back down to Howley’s Quay. Limerick Racecourse, Patrickswell [email protected] www.celtnet.org www.designweek.ie t: 1890 269 969 Fondly known as the “Improver’s Session” e: [email protected] The best of cattle, horse, pony, sheep, Entertainment Venues 26-29 Christmas Racing Festival at Limerick www.igb.ie t: +353 (0)86-8464509 goats and dogs, horticulture and crafts. 6 - 9 Dromineer Literary Festival Date TBC Bull 'n' Booze Bruff RFC Glór Irish Music Centre www.wmw.ie Trade stands and family entertainment. Dromineer, Co. Tipperary Racecourse Limerick Racecourse Tag Rugby Festival November Glor, Ennis, Co. Clare t: +353 (0) 61-355298 Writing competitions, workshops, Limerick Racecourse, Greenmount Park, Patrickswell The Greyhound Bar Bruff RFC, Bruff, Co. Limerick t: +353 (0)65-6843103 www.limerickshow.com readings and literary related events. 5 Athea Fair Day Patrickswell, Co. Limerick t: +353 (0)61-320000 The Greyhound Bar, Sixmilebridge, Co. Clare Join 40 adult teams from all over www.glor.ie t: +353 (0) 87-690 8099 Athea, Co. Limerick A tradition at Christmas. www.limerickraces.ie All year - Every Friday 10 p.m. Ireland and the UK in this social The old style fair day is re-lived with t: +353(0)61-320 000 www.dromineerliteraryfestival.ie Limerick Youth Theatre t: +353(0)86-8464509 festival with DJ and barbeque. animals, feedstock, organic produce www.limerickraces.ie September 69 O’Connell St., Limerick City Limerick City Centre www.wmw.ie www.bruffrfc.com 9 Munster National - Ladies Day at Limerick on view for one and all. t: +353 (0)61-319866 1 Sept Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival Limerick Racecourse, t: +353 (0)61-311100 01 Jun Ballyhoura Summer Active Series t: +353 (0) 87-2221714 www.belltable.ie Set Dancing Brogans Bar & Restaurant - 2 Oct Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare Patrickswell, Co. Limerick www.lyt.ie - 31 Aug Ballyhoura www.thegablescomplex.com Brogans, Ennis, Co. Clare Ireland’s premier Spa Town is home Featuring annual best dressed Ladies Birr Theatre & Arts Centre The Loft Venue t: +353(0)65-682 0996 See entry 1st June 09, 16, SoulScapes to one of Europe’s largest Day with great prizes to be won. Seven Birr, Co. Offaly Georges Quay, Limerick City www.ballyhouracountry.com 23, 30 Friars' Gate Theatre, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick Burren Annual Exhibition national hunt races starting at 2.40pm. t: +353 (0)57-9122911 t: +353 (0)85-2085737 matchmaking festivals. A festival celebrating diversity of Burren College of Art, Ballyvaughan, 3 - 8 Feakle International Traditional t: +353 (0) 61-320 000 www.birrtheatre.com www.bottomdogtheatre.com / t: +353 (0) 65-7074005 thinking in music, song, poetry, Co. Clare Music Festival www.limerickraces.ie www.lockebar.com www.matchmakerireland.com storytelling and art. Bunratty Medieval Castle Banquet Aug / Sept Feakle, Co. Clare Bunratty, Co. Clare 2 - 4 Dan Furey Weekend t: +353 (0) 63-987 27 The Source Arts Centre An annual celebration of the best in new Musicians from local and overseas 10 Traditional Horse Fair t: +353 (0)61-360788 traditional backgrounds share in a , Co. Clare Kilrush, Co. Clare www.friarsgate.ie Thurles Irish and International contemporary art. www.shannonheritage.com +353 (0)504 90204 t: +353 (0)65 707 7200 unique musical experience. A full weekend of set dancing to the t: +353 (0)65-905 1047 10 - 14 Ennis Trad Festival t: +353 (0) 61- 924885 or best of Irish music all weekend www.thesourceartscentre.ie www.burrencollege.ie in a relaxed rural setting. 12 - 15 Slieve Bloom Storytelling Festival Ennis, Co. Clare +353 (0) 87-9678020 t: +353 (0) 87-2220289 Castles & Great Houses in Offaly & Laois Over 100 sessions, live CD launches, www.feaklefestival.ie e: [email protected] A week of tall tales, legends, myths masterclasses, dance workshops, céilí, talks, themed table quiz. 5 - 12 43rd Annual Birr Vintage Week 2 - 4 Ellen Galvin Traditional Music and lies. Rambling houses in pubs, & Arts Festival great houses and castles. t: +353 (0) 86-8307050 Week-end www.ennistradfestival.com Birr, Co. Offaly , Kilrush, Co. Clare t: +353 (0) 86-2789147 Vintage parade, Olde time fair, street Festival of Irish music, song and dance www.slievebloom.ie 11 - 13 Upperchurch Walking Weekend Festival theatre, visual arts, childrens’ and with classes in various instruments 13 - 16 OFFline Film Festival Upperchurch, Co. Tipperary sporting events, live music, fireworks. given by well known musicians. Birr, Co. Offaly A variety of walks for all levels of t: +353 (0) 87 -9226961 t: +353 (0) 65- 9051597 or Boutique Film Festival whose highlight fitness. Refreshments will be www.birrvintageweek.com +353 (0) 86-3507255 is the short filmmaking competition. available after each walk and enjoy 8 - 22 Fine Art Workshops www.nellgalvin.com Great workshops, screenings and fun. entertainment in local pubs. t: +353 (0) 86-0518934 Burren College, Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare 3 Scariff Show Society +353 (0) 57-912 2911 A series of 5 day workshops in www.offlinefilmfestival.com www.upperchurch.ie Scariff, Co. Clare landscape, botanical & abstract painting, 15 - 2 8 Ennis Fashion Fortnight 11 - 19 GPC World Powerlifting & Benchpress experimental drawing, photography Scariff Agricultual Show is an Ennis, Co. Clare Championships and portfolio preparation. opportunity for everyone to display the 2 weeks of make-up demonstrations, Kilmurry Lodge Hotel, Limerick t: +353 (0) 65-7077200 fruits of the year’s labour and have fun. special offers in shops, hotels & Lifters from more than 20 countries www.burrencollege.ie t: +353 (0) 61-921687 are expected to take part. www.scariffshow.com restaurants, culminating with a Gala Ball. 10 - 14 Kilrush Traditional Music and Set t: +353 (0) 65-6821947 e: [email protected] Dancing Weekend 9 - 11 Traditional Music Festival www.visitennis.ie 13 - 14 November Race Meeting Kilrush, Co. Clare Tulla, Co. Clare 19 - 2 2 Cuisle - Limerick International Limerick Racecourse, Patrickswell, Co. Limerick Festival of traditional music including A great weekend of music, song, dance, Poetry Festival t: +353 (0) 61-320000 classes, sessions, set dancing classes workshops, recitals, concerts & ceilithe. Limerick City www.limerickraces.ie and ceili's. t: +353 (0) 87-1473385 Contemporary poetry readings, workshops, t: +353 (0) 86-0854834 19 - 20 Georgian Christmas Market www.tullatradfestival.com competitions and book launches. www.comhaltas.ie No. 1 Pery Square Hotel & Spa, Limerick 15 - 18 Clare Shout Fleadh t: +353 (0) 61-407421 / 407 363 Market stalls include local artisan food 12 - 14 Athea Singles Festival Kilkishen, Co. Clare www.cuisle.limerick.ie producers, arts & crafts, seasonal gifts Athea, Co. Limerick A family fun packed weekend with 15 - 16 Ballyhoura Autumn Rambling Weekend with a difference and much more. Events included are speed dating, something for everyone to enjoy. Ballyhoura Mountains & Kilmallock, dancing & entertainment for a t: +353 (0) 61-402402 t: +353 (0) 86-2314685 Co. Limerick weekend of finding "true love". www.limerickgeorgianmarket.com e: [email protected] Guided walks over 2 days for both the t: +353 (0) 87-2221714 casual stroller and the seasoned walker. 20 Nov Santa’s Workshop at www.thegablescomplex.com 17 - 18 National Mountain Bike t: +353 (0) 63-312 00 - 22 Dec Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare Championships 17 Agricultural Show www.deeberthousehotel.com Santa’s workshop in a unique setting. Ballyhoura, Ardpatrick, Co. Limerick. Cappamore, Co. Limerick t: +353 (0) 65-7077036 t: +353 (0) 63-91300 21 - 24 Lough Gur Storytelling Festival Top class display of cattle, horses, www.aillweecave.ie www.ballyhouracountry.com Honeyfitz Theatre, Lough Gur, cookery & crafts with live Storytelling festival of entertainment & amusements. 18 Blas an Fhomhair 25 - 27 Winterfest international renown. t: +353 (0) 61 -381313 The Market Quarter, Limerick City Nenagh, Co. Tipperary t: ++353 (0) 86-810 6848 www.cappamoreshow.com The event aims to celebrate locally The wonder of Christmas comes to www.loughgur.com Limerick’s Market Quarter for this 17 - 21 Arts Festival the Irish National organic festival. 22 - 31 Thurles Halloween Arts Festival year's Winterfest! Terryglass, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary t: 353 (0)67-32596 or Various venues in Thurles, Co. Exciting and varied range of events www.countrychoice.com Community based family arts festival. for all ages and interests in a unique December 23 Culture Night t: +353 (0) 86-239 7376 village on the shores of Lough Derg. Nationwide www.thurlesartsfestival.com Thru Dec Children's Panto and Dinner at t: +353 (0) 87 -2181663 One night that allows people of all Bunratty Castle www.terryglassartsfestival.ie ages and backgrounds to access and 25 - 30 Spleodar Community Arts Festival Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Co. Clare Nenagh, Co. Tipperary 18 Limerick & District Canine Club 82nd enjoy the region’s rich cultural offerings. Fun, food and frolics for all the family Bringing light and noise to the streets www.ShortBreaksIreland.ie All Breed Championship Dog Show www.culturenight.ie at this unique 15th century location. of Nenagh in a splash of artistic Adare, Co. Limerick. Reservations necessary. 23 - 25 The Burren Peaks Walking Festival activity over Hallowe'en. www.ShannonDevelopment.ie All Breed Championship Dog t: +353 (0) 61-360 788 Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare t: +353 (0) 67-349 00 Show held at Fitzgerald’s Woodlands A real taste of the Burren with guided www.spleodar.ie www.shannonheritage.com House Hotel, Adare, Co. Limerick. hill and walks varying in distance and t: +353 (0) 61 -271292 28 - 30 21st Annual Festival of One Act Drama Thru Dec Christmas Evening at the Castle grade on offer for all walkers. Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Co. Clare www.limerickcanineclub.com t: +353 (0) 87-7779714 Friars' Gate Theatre, Sarsfield St., Kilmallock, Co. Limerick Enjoy dinner and Bunratty entertainment 19 - 21 KDC Summer Festival 2011 www.burrenpeakswalkingfestival.com Three one-act plays a night, for three with a difference. Christmas Classics Disclaimer: Kilteely Dromkeen Cloverfield, 24 Cliffs of Moher Marathon nights, with some of Ireland’s leading performed by the castle entertainers. Co. Limerick. Every effort has been made to ensure that information included in this publication is Cliffs of Moher, Liscannor, Co. Clare amateur drama groups! 8pm nightly. Reservations necessary Fun filled family festival weekend accurate at time of publication, however, no responsibility can be accepted for any The Cliffs of Moher Half and Full t: +353 (0) 63-987 27 with lots for everyone to enjoy. t: +353 (0) 61-360 788 www.friarsgate.ie subsequent changes. In order to avoid disappointment, it is strongly recommended t: +353 (0)61-388814 Marathon 2011. www.shannonheritage.com www.kdccc.eu www.cliffsofmohermarathon.ie that you contact event organisers prior to travelling. www.ShortBreaksIreland.ie