is a vibrant riverside city with a rich medieval past and is capital of Ireland’s Mid-West region. The Gathering Limerick 2013 promises to be spectacular with numerous festivals and events taking place throughout the city and county all year long. Our calendar is packed with amazing events including fashion, music, food, sport, reunions, literature and so much more! We’re part of it, are you?

Visit www.thegatheringireland.com and www.limerick.ie/thegathering for a full listing of festivals and events. February-March

NCW Musicians Reunion February 9th Contact: Seamus Cleary | Tel: +353 69 62241

West Limerick Set Dancing Workshop February 15th Running for 20 years, this celebration will promote and teach traditional set dancing. Contact: Ann Curtin | Tel: +353 87 659 4668

Biking Blitz Round 2 Mountain Bike Event February 17th The second round of the exciting Biking Blitz friendly mountain bike event series takes place in Ballyhoura, Co Limerick. Choose from a 17km or 35km loop of some of the best mountain bike trails in Ireland. Contact: Niall Davis | www.bikingblitz.ie

Murroe Boher Week of Welcomes March 8th-17th The Murroe Boher Expo and Week of Welcomes will encompass St. Patrick’s Day in Murroe. Events will include ghost stories by candlelight, workshops and demonstrations including a blacksmithing workshop in the Forge in Murroe, genealogy workshop on tracing your roots and heritage walks and talks. Contact: Amanda Slattery | www.murroe.net

‘Recruit and Mobilize’ Gathering March 14th-15th On 14th and 15th of March 2013, a group of volunteers from the United States are spending two days in our premises at Rape Crisis Midwest carrying out finishing works to our new building. Members of the local community will also be invited to attend and to participate. The evening will finish with entertainment/ food and a presentation to the group for their contribution to the project. Contact: +353 61 311511 | [email protected] www.rapecrisis.ie March 16th-18th Limerick’s St Patrick’s Festival has gone from strength to strength over the past number of years. More than 70,000 spectators thronged the streets of Limerick for the St Patrick’s Day parade in 2012. Along with the main parade, the festival includes the International Band Championship, festival racing, markets and family fun! Contact: Fran O’Donnell www.limerick.ie/stpatricksfestival

The Gathering 2013 Special Exhibition Tour March 14th To celebrate The Gathering 2013 Limerick City Gallery of Art welcomes visitors and their friends & families to a special guided tour of the exhibition. Limerick City Gallery of Art, Carnegie Building, Pery Square, Limerick. Free Admission. Contact: [email protected] +353 61 310633 | www.gallery.limerick.ie

St. Patrick’s Day Ballyhoura Country Parades March 17th Communities around Ballyhoura Country will be marching through the streets to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in Bruff, , Kilmallock, Ballylanders, and many more. Expect to hear the pipe bands, see stilt walkers and everyone in the community get into the festive spirit on March 17th 2013. Contact: Amanda Slattery | www.visitballyhoura.com March

Joey Hannon Fun Run and Irish Night March 17th Fun run and walk followed by Irish night with music from special guests, visiting American musicians and Irish dancing, singing and poetry. Contact: The Limerick Gathering Team | +353 61 407374

St. Patrick’s Day Coming Home to Help March 17th An event for people in the US to come back to Ireland and help out the country where they are from. Some have not been home for generations. They will get to see and trace where they are from while giving a helping hand. Contact: Dermot O’Mahony | +353 87 654 2558

O’Malley Family/Clan Gathering March 17th All O’Malley’s and their relatives, all those descended from Murroe O’Malley’s, along with their families and connections, are cordially invited to attend a Gathering in Murroe on the evening of St. Patrick’s Day 2013 (17th March). Beginning with a children’s event in the Community Hall in Murroe (Muintir Na Tire hall) between 17:00 and 19:00, with teas/ coffees for adults. Then relocating to Croker’s pub, Murroe from 19:00. Contact: [email protected] | +353 87 6674021

Limerick International Band Championship March 18th. Limerick has for the last 42 years organised the internationally acclaimed Limerick International Band Championship, which is part of Limericks St. Patrick’s Festival (Ireland’s largest St. Patrick’s Festival outside of Dublin). Each year marching bands from the four corners of Ireland, the USA and Europe join Limerick’s finest to showcase their musical prowess with adrenalin pumping music for the thousands of spectators to enjoy! Contact: www.limerick.ie/bandparade St. Mary’s 100 March A Gathering of Old and New March 22nd-24th 100 years since St. Mary’s Boys’ National School Abbeyfeale opened its doors we are planning a weekend of celebratory events where past pupils will get the chance to revisit their old school building (now the Community Centre) and view the many facilities in the new school. Contact: Julie O’ Brien | +353 87 955 0304

Brown University Orchestra and Limerick Choral Union March 27th Brown University will bring its award-winning orchestra to Ireland for the first time this March. In a programme entitled ‘A Celebration of Music’, The Brown University Orchestra will perform with the Limerick Choral Union featuring Verdi and Gounod in their Easter repertoire. All profits of the concert will be donated to FOCUS IRELAND. Contact: Elizabeth Rose-Browne | +353 87 211 6903

McCoy Family Reunion 2013 March 28th Three generations of the McCoy family will gather for a big reunion in the town where it all began, Newcastle West. Contact: Aine McCoy | +353 87 962 8119

Celebrate with the Pratts and Gilligans March 30th Marking the occasion of Johnny & Melanie’s making it official and celebrating in Ireland. Contact: The Limerick Gathering Team | +353 61 407374 March - May

Gradam Ceoil TG4 March 30th Gradam Ceoil TG4 is Ireland’s only traditional music awards and concert of its kind. It will feature such musical greats as Sharon Shannon, Mary Black, Tommy Peoples, Dermot Byrne, Altan and Seamus Begley to name but a few. www.gradam.ie

The Headless Horseman Adventure Race 2013 March 30th An adventure race and a perfect race to see what adventure racing is about. The race takes in the scenic ballyhoura mountains, mystical Lough Gur and Kilmallock heritage town. Contact: Fiona Hayes Tel: +353 86 177 5066 www.hhar.ie

Munster Rugby Supporters Worldwide April 1st Munster supporters based abroad gathering in Limerick for a weekend of events. Contact: The Limerick Gathering Team | +353 61 407374

LIT Film Festival 2013 April 11th-13th Limerick Institute of Technology’s Audio Video Department are promoting film and video production in the Mid-West region of Ireland. Contact: Simon McGuire www.litfilmfestival.net

A Limerick Youth Project May 1st, June 1st, July 1st, Sept 1st, Oct 1st The Frank McCourt Museum has created “A Limerick Youth Project” which will be organised with the support of an international tour company. Contact: Dorothy Cantrell | +353 61 319710 Great Limerick Run May 5th On Sunday, 5th May 2013 the streets of Limerick will welcome more than 8,000 runners and 30,000 spectators to the Great Limerick Run. This event has something for every level of runner, including a marathon, half marathon and 6-mile distance event. Contact: John Cleary www.greatlimerickrun.com

Fleadh by the Feale May 2nd-6th The annual Fleadh by the Feale festival will take place from Thursday 2nd to Monday 6th May 2013 at The Square, Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick. The highlight of the weekend is a concert featuring Ireland’s most popular & longest surviving band, namely the Kilfenora Ceili Band. To cater for the expected crowd, the new hall in Coláiste Ide & Iosef will be the venue. It would be worth making the trip home just for the concert. Contact: +353 86 3265762 | www.fleadhbythefeale.com

Ballyhoura International Walking Festival May 3rd-5th Take in the breathtaking walks on the Ballyhoura and Galty Mountains, or any of the special interest walks in the local area. There are walks suitable for all ages and abilities. Contact: Amanda Slattery | www.visitballyhoura.com May

A Taste of Ballyhoura Country May 3rd-5th ‘A Taste of Ballyhoura Country’ encompasses seven local Irish artisan food and drink producers. There will be a display of Irish, Slovenian, Croatian, French & Austrian traditional national foods with chefs and community members representing their participating country. Contact: Fergal Sommers | +353 87 2755273 www.ballyhouracountry.com

Abbey Fishermen Homecoming Gathering May 3rd-6th Descendants from abroad will meet with their family members and neighbours still living in Limerick and share the wonderful common heritage of the Abbey Fishermen. We will have a welcome evening, boating on the abbey river, tour of parish area, historical presentations of our heritage and a social get together in the parish area. Contact: [email protected] www.facebook.com/abbeyfishermen

Riverfest 2013 May 3rd-6th Riverfest 2013 kicks off over the May Bank Holiday weekend and will showcase & celebrate all that’s great about Limerick City. A whole new city wide series of events will be planned including popular favourites: a huge BBQ competition, a riverside Continental Fair, fireworks, fashion events, river fun and lots more including the Great Limerick Run! www.riverfest.ie May Christopher Sanders May 3rd International German/Irish football match. Contact: The Limerick Gathering Team | +353 61 407374

Prendergast Gathering May 4th The extended Prendergast family get together for the bank holiday weekend of Riverfest. Contact: [email protected]

International Horse Racing Weekend May 4th-5th Racing enthusiasts are invited to join us at Limerick Racecourse for an action packed weekend in the Shannon Region to experience firsthand what we enjoy at each race meeting at one of Ireland’s finest horse racing tracks. Contact: Karen Shanahan | +353 61 320000 www.limerickraces.ie

Lackelly Ambush Trail May 6th The event is an unveiling of the Lackelly Ambush Trail in and around Knockcarron in . This is a commemoration to the four local men that lost their lives in the ambush on May 2nd 1921. Contact: +353 87 0615269

Curating Partnerships: A Roundtable Discussion May 11th Exploring new strategies and models of curatorial collaboration this project will culminate in a free public roundtable discussion. Contact: [email protected] May

LSAD Graduate Fashion Gathering May 16th-17th The Limerick School of Art and Design, LIT, is hosting its annual Graduate Fashion show on Thursday 16th May 2013. Twenty of Ireland’s future fashion designers will showcase their unique collections. This year as part of ‘The Gathering’, alumni from all over the world will be invited to showcase their work and give talks on their experiences at a Gathering Conference. Contact: +353 61 208870 | [email protected] | www.lit.ie

Gravity Enduro Round 2 Mountain Bike Event May 18th-19th Gravity Enduro is a spectacular mountain bike event series for experienced bikers. The course is approximately 25km long and has five mainly downhill timed stages. There are no start orders, no queuing, no waiting for results. You receive a timing chip on the morning of the event and swipe yourself in and out at the start and finish of each special stage. Contact: [email protected] | www.gravityenduro.ie

Cadogan Clan May 25th Regular family gathering. Contact: The Limerick Gathering Team | +353 61 407374

O’Connor Family Reunion and Golf May 26th-27th The Annual O’Connor Family Reunion & Golf is 30 years running this year. The family meet on a Sunday and on the Monday the family golfers meet and play for the O’Connor Family Golf Cup and the Susan Portley Memorial Trophy. Contact: The Limerick Gathering Team | +353 61 407374

Mk1 Golf Owners Club ’Ireland’ Gathering May 26th Mk1 Golf owners are invited to the Limerick Classic Car Show at Limerick Racecourse. Contact: +353 61 320 000 Village Gathering in Hospital

Scoby’s Bar - June May May 31st - June 2nd Full weekend of activities on Friday night, Saturday and Sunday, culminating with the Seamus O’Toole Memorial 5aside Football Tournament on Sunday. Contact: Brian O’Callaghan | Tel: +353 61 383983

Limerick Sings 2013 May 31st - June 3rd Limerick has a proud tradition of choral singing that dates back hundreds of years and Limerick Sings International Choral Festival invites both national and international choirs to come and join us for a weekend of non competitive music and song. Contact: Louise Mulcahy | +353 61 204432 www.limericksings.com

Lifting Limerick Golf Event June 6th-7th Lifting Limerick International Golf Event at Adare Manor Hotel and Golf Resort. Premium match tickets (including pre-match function) for the Munster Senior Hurling Championship at Pairc Na Gael – LIMERICK v Tipperary on Sunday 9th June 2013. This is a great opportunity to meet fellow Limerick exiles in a fun and sporting environment and perhaps have the chance to visit long lost relatives. Stay in some of Ireland’s finest 5 Star and 4 Star accommodations and travel in style in a luxury coach. Avail of the sightseeing trips to Castle, The Burren and the Cliffs of Moher and the memorable evenings in Irish music pubs, this is a tour not to be missed. Contact: [email protected] www.liftinglimerick.com June

Bloomsday in Bruff June 13-16th A four day festival celebrating the work of James Joyce in particular the novel Ulysses. Drama, readings, lectures, music and fun in and around Bruff, Co. Limerick. Contact: Amanda Slattery | www.bloomsdayireland.com

150th Anniversary Of Croom National School June 14th-16th A weekend of events centred on the book launch celebrating the 150th anniversary of Croom National School. Class reunions, school registers accessible, talks and lectures on the unique architecture and history of the school. Contact: Mary McDonnell | +353 61 397416

EFFIN VW Gathering 2013 June 14th-16th If you have a Vintage VW Camper Van and are touring around Ireland that weekend and would like to meet up with other VW camping enthusiasts then you are welcome to come to the VW Gathering 2013. Contact: Ann Marie Kennedy | +353 87 836 5007

Croom Family Reunion June 15th Croom Family Reunion with members attending from Croom Limerick and various cities across America including the North Carolina area. We have already had visitirs from Crooms from North Carolina and Chicago in 2011 and this event will bring even more from the Croom clan together. Contact: +353 86 8872463

The Glantine Invite June 15th Templeglantine locals invite John Mitchels Hurling Club Birmingham to visit our parish and participate in a challenge game. Contact: [email protected] The Shine Clan June June 15th A gathering of Shine/OSeighins to chat, sing a few songs and have a few drinks at the Ardhu Bar, Ennis Road, Limerick. Contact: The Limerick Gathering Team | +353 61 407374

Gathering of the Fitzgerald Clans June 20th-23rd The Fitzgerald Clan Gathering takes place over an entire weekend in the beautiful village of Adare, County Limerick. With great food and a great atmosphere this once in a life time opportunity will keep the whole family entertained while offering them a little bit of history. Contact: +353 87 9229245 www.fitzgeraldclangathering.com

Lough Gur Summer Solstice Festival June 20th-25th Summer Solstice Festival celebrates summer with music, song, dance, drama, sporting events and family fun. The Solstice has been celebrated in Lough Gur over the past 5,000 years – be part of the celebration in 2013! Contact: Amanda Slattery | www.loughgur.com

Rocky Mayhem Music Festival June 21st-30th Rocky Mayhem will again be found this June in the centre of Kilfinane County Limerick, a pretty mountain town, set in the stunning Ballyhoura mountains about 10 minutes north of Mitchelstown, 30 minutes south of Limerick, with about 45 minutes away and Dublin just over 2 hours away. This tight little gig of about 1200 is part of Kilfinane’s festival weekend and is already renowned by fans and bands alike for its comfort and sound (it could be heard five miles away over a mountain last year!!). www.rockymayhem.ie June - July

Great Southern Trail Midsummer Big Walk June 22nd The third annual 35km Great Southern Trail Midsummer Big Walk will commence from Rathkeale (Palatine Museum at 10.30 a.m.) and travel the route of the old Limerick-Tralee railway line to Abbeyfeale. Contact: Liam O’Mahony | +353 87 6471956 [email protected] | www.southerntrail.net

Launch of the Geraldine Earls of Desmond June 22nd-28th FitzGeralds by name and other descendants of the Earls of Desmond (1329-1583), as well as lovers of history locally and abroad will convene for the launch of The Geraldine Earls of Desmond book. Contact: Gerald O’Carroll | +353 86 351 9635

Ballinruane Charity Barndance 2013 June 22nd Ballinruane Charity Barndance includes a live band ‘The Unusual Suspects’, DJ, full free bar, full bacon and cabbage dinner and lots of gimmick entertainment. The 2013 charity is Limerick Pieta House and tickets are 50 Euro with only 800 available. Contact: Eveleen O’Brien | +353 86 176 4946 www.barndance2013.splashthat.com

Blas International Summer School June 24th - July 5th Hosted annually by the Irish World Academy, , Blas is firmly established as one of Ireland’s most prestigious summer schools, attracting students from around the world to spend two weeks gaining access from the expertise of some of Ireland’s finest traditional exponents. Contact: +353 61 202653 | [email protected] | blas.ie Knockainey Village Festival

June 27th-30th - July June A long weekend of community events with input from all clubs as well as community members and a weekend of welcomes to all who have roots in the parish. Contact: Mary O’Grady | +353 86 155 3449

Chronicles of the Fitzgerald Clan June 28th - July 5th Chronicles of the Fitzgerald Clan is a seven day tour of Ireland which trails the glorious past of the powerful Fitzgerald Clan and offers you the chance to unearth your own Fitzgerald family roots. Contact: Mary Fitzgerald | Tel: +353 87 737 3654

Clounleharde School Reunion June 29th This is a gathering of past pupils of Clounleharde National School which was opened in 1884 and closed in 1967. Contact: Peg Prendeville | [email protected]

Harrold Clan July 1st As with many Irish families, Harrolds emigrated all over the world. Eamon Harrold and his family will be travelling from Melbourne to join us this summer. Contact: The Limerick Gathering Team | +353 61 407374

3rd Sheahan Clan Gathering July 4th Starting the day with the Sheahan Clan Golf Classic in Newcastle West Golf Club, followed by traditional Irish pub lunch and prize giving in Foleys Bar, Ardagh, Co. Limerick. That evening the entire clan will gather for a 4th July spectacular on the rooftop of the Strand Hotel Limerick for a Jazz BBQ. Contact: Karen Brosnahan | +353 87 241 0210 July

4th July Limerick Festival July 4th Calling all Irish Americans home to Limerick, 4th July Limerick 2013 will be a festival of colour, music, food entertainment and fun for all ages. Contact: +353 87 283 3932 www.4thjulylimerick.com

Week of Welcomes- Kilmallock July 12th-21st Family fun days, a concert in the Abbey, historical walks, a soccer tournament, a camogie blitz, a biking event and old films of Kilmallock are taking place during our Week of Welcomes. Contact: Margaret Atalla | [email protected]

Anglesboro Reunion July 12th-14th The gathering weekend will be a major social event in the community and will be centered around a number of activities. Contact: Seamus Gordon | [email protected]

Pig n Porter Tag Rugby Festival July 13th World’s largest tag rugby festival with 1,800 fit male & female players aged 21-35 competing to find the Champion Team. And the party really kicks off in the 9,000 sq. ft. marquee when all the tagging is done! Contact: Aidan Walsh | www.pignporter.com

Munster Fleadh Cheoil July 14th - 21st Fleadh Cheoil na Mumhan 2013 will be hosted for the first time by Castletroy CCÉ in the University of Limerick. Munster Fleadh 2013 promises to be a unique Munster Fleadh as it will be the first time it will be held in an enclosed campus environment. Contact: +353 87 935 2605 [email protected] | www.munsterfleadh.ie July Abbeyfeale Schools Reunion July 15th-21st The three secondary schools in Abbeyfeale amalgamated into one last September - Colaiste Ide agus Iosef. We are hoping to reunite past pupils from Kelly’s, the Convent and the Vocational School in Abbeyfeale to showcase the new colaiste as well as the vibrant town of Abbeyfeale with it’s traditions of storytelling, music, song and dance. Contact: Marian Hartnett | [email protected]

Angela’s Ashes - The Musical July 17th-20th A world-renowned best seller that became a major motion picture, Angela’s Ashes has now been adapted into a stage musical that conveys the story’s inherent warmth and humour through a score of original songs. Contact: +353 61 774774 [email protected] www.limetreetheatre.ie

Aru Firinne Los Paddy de Las Pampas July 19th Live concert in Limerick City Contact: The Limerick Gathering Team | +353 61 407374

Kilteely Dromkeen Community Festival July 19th-21st A fun filled activity weekend with fun for all age groups. This is a great family weekend with a soapbox derby, fancy dress (adult and kiddies), live music, side shows, bouncy castles, pet farms, dog shows, skittles and even a donkey derby! Contact: Tom Jones | [email protected]

Oola Parish Gathering July 20th-21st The Oola gathering will be a celebration of the cultural, sporting, social, religious and economic endeavours by Oola people over the last century. Contact: +353 87 938 9663 July - August

Irish Running Camp July 21st-26th Athletes from across the United States, Ireland and Europe will join together to experience an exciting new balance of camaraderie and rivalry at the Irish Running Camp, University of Limerick. A premier international running camp dedicated to providing all runners with a unique training, learning and cultural experience in Ireland. Contact: Tim Coleman | www.irishrunningcamp.com

UL Emerald Cup 2013 - An U14 International Soccer Tournament July 26th-28th The UL Emerald Cup is a soccer tournament for male and female teams from the U12-U14 category. Teams will be invited from the USA, UK, Europe & Ireland. Contact: Connor McCullough | +353 86 026 8455 [email protected] www.ulsoccerdevelopmentprogramme.com

The Limerick Gathering Festival ‘Tailteann Nua’ August 1st-5th The event offers groups, individuals and families the opportunity for a summer holiday celebration at the University’s spectacular campus where they can participate in the performing arts, play a team sport or just enjoy one of the many classes, workshops and events on offer in language, music, dance and storytelling. Contact: +353 61 202433 | info@ limerickgatheringfest.com www.limerickgatheringfest.com Adare Manor Golf Reunion July 26th A get together of old golfing industry friends and colleagues August - July who worked at Adare Golf Club at Adare Manor over the years. Contact: The Limerick Gathering Team | +353 61 407374

Beast Of Ballyhoura Adventure Race 2013 August 2nd-4th Participants will compete non- stop, day and night, covering a variety of outdoor disciplines including trail running, mountain biking, navigation, kayaking, rope courses, and the mandatory surprise disciplines thrown in to truly test the teams. Athletes will rely entirely on their strength, stamina, and above all, teamwork. Contact: +353 63 91300 | www.beastofballyhoura.com

Noonan and Bond Reunion August 2nd-5th A gathering of family members from UK, Australia, USA, Switzerland and Ireland. Contact: Bridget Noonan | [email protected]

Irish Festival of Speed August 3rd-4th The Irish Festival of Speed is the largest celebration of car culture in Ireland, a five star mix of all things automotive; racing cars past and present, rally cars, supercars, vintage and classics, motorcycles and air displays! Contact: [email protected]

Ballygoughlan School Reunion August 3rd Reunion gathering of past pupils of Ballygoughlan School and their familes and friends. Contact: Noreen O’Neill | +353 87 257 1184 August

Glenbrohane School Reunion August 9th The community are inviting home the past pupils of the school. There will be a three week long programme of events and activities including walks, talks, dancing at the crossroads and local festivals. Contact: Amanda Slattery | 087 9975851

Sarsfield’s Day August 10th A one day festival to celebrate Patrick Sarsfield, one of Limerick’s most important historical figures. ‘Sarsfields Day’ will feature elements of history, pageantry, sound & light, music and fireworks and will appeal to all the family. Contact: Sean McNamara | +353 1734987

Cappamore Show August 12th-18th Cappamore Show is distinctive in that it incorporates both displays and competitions in areas such as cookery, crafts, agricultural and horticultural produce and other areas that draw on the traditional skills, arts and crafts of the region, as well as more traditional show sections such as cattle and horse showing and jumping classes. Contact: +353 61 381062 | [email protected] www.cappamoreshow.ie

Kilbehenny Potato Festival Week of Welcomes August 13th-19th The Kilbehenny Potato Festival is a celebration of everything to do with the humble spud! The event in 2013 is the time to invite all Kilbehenny natives and all international potato lovers home to enjoy the week long festival. Contact: www.kilbehenny.com

Celtic Cup 2013 International Lacrosse Tournament August 15th The third installment of this major men’s lacrosse tournament. Contact: Michael Kennedy | www.irelandlacrosse.ie Castletown Conyers August Pattern Festival August 15th-18th We are inviting all past pupils who attended the National School in Ballyagran which opened in 1974 when Ballyagran, Castletown, Kilacolla & Colmanswell National Schools were amalgamated. Contact: Tim Tierney | [email protected]

Dores and Kellehers of Killeedy Cross August 16th This Gathering project aims to explore the stories of these families and the historical context in which they lived with talks, walks, music, chat, dance, prayer and mugs of tea. Contact: Jody O Connor | Tel: +353 87 6483144

Heritage Week August 17th Heritage Week in Ballyhoura Country consists of a wonderful mix of events include historic walks, graveyard tours, open access to listed buildings and houses normally not accessible, historic lectures, plays and pageants. Contact: Amanda Slattery | www.heritageweek.ie

Presentation De La Salle Hospital class of 1983 & 1984 August 17th We are organising a Class of ’83 and ’84 reunion and hope that you can join us at Woodlands Hotel, Adare, Co Limerick. The evening costs €25, collected on the night. Contact: Colin Bergin | [email protected]

Killmallock Walled Town Day August 18th The event includes re-enactments, the Ballyhoura Food Fair, music and activities for young and old. Contact: Amanda Slattery | www.kilmallockonline.com August

Mary from Murroe Festival 2013 August 23rd-25th Twelve women compete for the Mary from Murroe title 2013, Murroes very own Rose of Tralee competition. Music and many other events are planned to surround the main event including a 5km fun run, live music, hurling matches, cake sale, children’s activities and much more. Contact: Amanda Slattery | www.murroe.net

Thomond Park Women’s International Rugby Tournament August 23rd-25th Contact: Louise Mulcahy | +353 61 204432

Trip to Limerick August 23rd A Limerick native organises a trip to his home town of Adare in Limerick for a group of up to 30 people consisting of family and friends - a mixture of Irish, Irish descent and non Irish people visiting Ireland for the first time. Contact: Michael McNamara | Tel: +01942 202410

Cannonball Ireland August 23rd-25th Europe’s largest organised three day road trip for supercars travelling throughout Ireland, including Limerick. Contact: Alan Bannon | [email protected]

Knocklong Gala Weekend August 24th-25th On Saturday 24th August in the community centre we will showcase photographs, artwork, music, old video footage and poetry celebrating the history and culture of Knocklong, with a family fun day on the Saturday. Contact: Dave Kelly | [email protected] Limerick Pride LGBTQ Festival August 31st - September 8th This weeklong festival takes place annually in September to recognize and celebrate Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered

and Queer identity in Limerick City and the surrounding - September August counties. Contact: www.limerickpride.ie

The IP Gathering September 1st-2nd This Gathering aims to bring information professionals and librarians from around the world together to Limerick City to discuss topics and issues concerning librarians and information professionals and to celebrate the very best in Irish culture. The special theme of this Gathering is the impact of information and library professionals in a global context. Contact: Padraig Kirby | +353 61 448516

Stuart Robbins International Basketball Tournament September 6th Memorial tournament (Stuart Robbins) of men’s basketball with several US and European teams taking part. Contact: John King | +353 86 2561673

Seamus and Kathleen Ryan 50th Wedding Anniversary September 7th Mass at Holy Trinity Church Adare followed by light refreshment and plenty of drink at the Dunraven Arms. Contact: The Limerick Gathering Team | +353 61 407374

Glenroe Harvest Festival September 7th-15th This small rural community has played host to some of Ireland’s leading musical acts including the Saw Doctors, Sharon Shannon, Mundy and Ryan Sheridan who will play at the event this coming September 2013. If previous years are to go by the Glenroe Gathering is one not to be missed! Contact: +353 87 771 8199 www.glenroeharvestfestival.com September

The Knights Of Westfest Gathering September 11th-15th The Westfest Gathering 2013 will be a spectacular celebration. Newcastle West will open its arms to friends and family from all over the world, calling them home to gatherings in villages and towns throughout Limerick & all over Ireland. Contact: +353 86 401 0316 | [email protected]

Limerick Lawn the Gathering September 13th-15th Contact: Emer Dillon | +353 61 452316

Memories of Rockhill and Bruree September 13th The event will focus around the schools of Rockhill & Bruree, past and present. It will provide a valid reason for former pupils of the school both within the country and abroad to come back to the parish. An exhibition of photographs from the past fifty years, will take place throughout the weekend. Contact: Elaine Horgan | +353 86 173 6608

The Fogarty’s 600AD to 2013 September 15th There is only ONE Fogarty family and it extends all across south east Ireland; Tipperary, Limerick, and Kerry; dispersed to America, Australia and Canada. So we’re hoping to bring them all together in a place close to our hearts in September 2013. Contact: The Limerick Gathering Team | +353 61 407374

Inviting the World for Tea September 15th We will be going for a record-breaking number of people taking part in a tea dance, dancing the tango, cha cha cha and other classics, with a refreshing cuppa served at the end. Contact: The Limerick Gathering Team | +353 61 407374 The Paddy Dakar September 20th-22nd The Paddy Dakar, now in its fourth year is an Orienteering on Motorbikes charity event that takes place in and around Slieve Felim and the Silvermines Mountains, which straddle county’s Limerick and Tipperary. It is held as a tribute to Irish September - October Dakar Riders past and present who by their participation have demonstrated themselves to be the pinnacle of off-road endurance riding. Contact: Amanda Slattery | www.thepaddydakar.ie

The Tommy Brouder Festival Bruff September 27th-29th The event is a celebration of traditional Irish music, with Céili and trad sessions running over the weekend along with arts workshops for children and a family fun day on the Sunday. www.bruffheritagegroup.com

Bruff Bluegrass Festival October 4th-6th Bruff Bluegrass Festival showcases the best bands from all over the world. Events held over the weekend include the National Horseshoe Pitching Contest, donkey races, a street barbecue and masterclasses. Contact: Amanda Slattery www.bruffbluegrass.blogspot.com

The John Enright Castleconnell Flycasting Festival October 11th-13th Three times World Champion. Current world fly casting record holder. His international exploits brought fame and glory to his native village of Castleconnell and coupled with the big fish Castleconnell Fishery became an international fishing centre and Castleconnell village was known as Little Paris and home of the famous Castleconnell Rod. Contact: John McNamara | +353 86 0397711 October

Irish Coffee 70th Birthday Party October 13th Join us for our celebrations with music and Irish coffee making demonstrations by many of our former Powers Irish Coffee making champions, from both at home and overseas. Contact: Margaret O’Shaughnessy | +353 69 65416

Limerick World Food Day October 16th World Food Day in will showcase the very best foods from over 14 different countries including France, Italy, Ghana, Nigeria, Poland, Lebanon, Pakistan and Ireland. Guests from Ireland and abroad will be invited to enjoy the entertainment and cuisine from nationalities all over the world and see the guest chef demonstrations. Contact: +353 61 421106

Moloney Clan Gathering October 19th Family gathering fun ball to get to meet the long lost relatives of the Moloney clan. Bringing together family from Australia, Canada, South Africa, Europe and Ireland. Contact: The Limerick Gathering Team | +353 61 407374

Limerick City Weekend of Welcomes October 24th-28th With a charter older than that of London, Limerick has a long and captivating history and through the Limerick City Weekend of Welcomes event we can proudly display all that we have to offer to the Limerick Diaspora. The primary components of this Gathering involve a wide range of activities and events designed to entertain, educate & immerse its participants in Limerick’s great history & culture. Contact: +353 61 313399 | [email protected] www.limerickcivictrust.ie Crescent College Comprehensive October Class of 73 Renuion October 19th In June 2013 it will be forty years since the first graduating class from Crescent College Comprehensive, Limerick sat their Leaving Certificate. We will celebrate this event with a reunion dinner on 19th October 2013. Contact: The Limerick Gathering Team | +353 61 407374

1st Annual Worldwide Clohessy Clan Gathering October 25th-27th Welcome to the Worldwide Clohessy Clan a Sept of The Dalcassian of Thomond or The Tribe of Dal gCais. The Clan has been accepted for membership in the Tribe of Dal gCais Clan list of over 170 Dalcassian Family names. Contact: Stephen Clohessy | +07429 583043 www.worldwideclohessyclan.myheritage.com

One Act Drama Festival October 25th-27th Amateur drama groups and drama enthusiasts from all over Ireland travel to Kilmallock for the first One Act Festival on the festival circuit. Contact: Amanda Slattery | +353 63 98727 www.friarsgate.ie

1st Richard Harris Film Festival October 25th-27th An event to celebrate the life and career of Richard Harris on screen and stage, incorporating his love of Limerick, the arts and sport. Richard Harris was an actor, singer, theatrical producer, film director, wit, poet and writer of immense ability. Contact: Rob Gill | +353 87 246 8686

Dooleys of Limerick October 26th The Dooley gathering will trace and remember the Dooleys of Thomondgate, Limerick. Attendees will learn about the seven generations of the family, where they lived, what they worked at and where their descendents are now. Contact: Conor Dooley | +353 87 2252407 Limerick International Fashion & Design Week 2013 October 29th-31st A major international fashion competition with students from across the UK, US, Europe and also Ireland competing for the IPB International Young Student Designer of the Year Award 2013. Working in partnership with the Limerick colleges, the alumni of fashion graduates from the city will be invited back to Limerick to attend this event. Contact: +353 61 412726 | [email protected] www.holmanlee

International Gathering of Horse Racing Clubs & Enthusiasts November 9th-10th And they’re off! Jockeys, racing clubs and enthusiasts from all over Europe will gather in Limerick Racecourse for a huge weekend race meeting culminating in a live music concert to round off the festivities. Contact: Limerick Racecourse | +353 61 320000 Soulscapes

November November Four Wednesday evenings in November (6th, 13th, 20th & 27th) to celebrate and reflect on the human spirit. A series of rich evenings for the mind and spirit. Be inspired, uplifted, entertained, challenged. Contact: Amanda Slattery | +353 63 98727 www.friarsgate.ie

Rugby League World Cup 2013 November 9th Ireland V’s Australia in The Rugby League World Cup 2013. Its your chance to be in attendance at a World Cup rugby event. Be there to experience the magic of this game in Thomond Park Stadium. Contact: Karen Brosnahan | www.rlwc2013.com

The Gathering of the Buffs November 14th The Buffs (Royal East Kent Regiment) have many graves in Limerick and Ireland and we would like for their descendents to attend a Gathering in Limerick in November 2013. Contact: The Limerick Gathering Team | +353 61 407374

Gospel to the Nations Limerick November 17th Gospel to the nations is aimed at inviting Irish missionaries and their children (MK’s) who have gone abroad. It is also aimed at anyone else that has gone abroad for any reason and has had an encounter with God and has embraced Christianity. Contact: Gordon Liston | +353 87 2949518 www.thegatheringireland.com www.limerick.ie/thegathering

Gathering Team, City Hall, Merchant’s Quay, Limerick Tel. 061 407294 / 407374 Email: [email protected]

Comhairle Chontae Luimnigh Limerick County Council