As January is well and truly upon us, it is not only a time of new beginnings and celebrations, but it is also a time to look forward to the many things taking place across the region over the coming year. And let us tell you, 2024 is looking like it will be absolutely mighty!
From some of our favourite annual festivals to a beloved fitness challenge, and of course some new events there is an event or two that you will want to pop into your calendar! So whether you are an East Clare native, or are looking to plan your highly anticipated trip to the region, use this list as a guide to help you plan ahead for 2024.
Imbolc, Beginning of February
Imbolc is a festival marking the beginning of spring and has been celebrated since ancient times.
More information and details coming soon, so stay tuned!
St Patrick's Day, March 17th
Discover the vibrant celebrations of St. Patrick's Day across the enchanting landscapes of East Clare! Immerse yourself in the heart of the festivities as colourful parades and events unfold, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the region. From traditional music and dance to lively processions, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Details of events and parades will be shared on our social media channels as the date approaches.
Tuamgraney Harp Festival, April 5th-7th
Tuamgraney and the wider East Clare region are renowned for traditional Irish music, and unsurprisingly the area is home to several highly acclaimed musicians. The festival will open on the evening of April 5th, and the following two days will be filled with workshops, question and answer sessions, a competition, and of course a concert and a recital.
The goal is to revitalise enthusiasm for the harp, a symbol of Irish national identity and an essential part of our cultural heritage for centuries.
For more information, visit the Tuamgraney Harp Festival website.
Bodyke Annual Festival, May Bank Holiday Weekend (likely)
The Bodyke Annual Festival is due to return this May Bank Holiday Weekend. This festival brings a weekend of music and entertainment to the village. Events include live music, a family fun sports day, and more.
For more information, visit the Bodyke Annual Festival Facebook page.
Mountshannon Arts Festival, May 30th - June 3rd
The Mountshannon Arts Festival has been running since 1997, and every year it has gone from strength to strength. Each year of the festival brings a new collection of exhibitions, performances and workshops to inspire and entertain both locals and visitors to the area.
Rooted in the visual arts, the ethos of Mountshannon Arts is to create access to works and exhibitions that would not be easy to find in a rural area, while at the same time stimulating the creation of works and performances from within the local community. There is also an emphasis on families, and we aim to create a fun-filled festival, with water sports, live music, puppet shows, a dog show and more.
For more information, visit the Mountshannon Arts Festival website.
Féile Brian Ború, July (Dates TBC)
Féile Brian Ború is an annual festival in the twin towns of Ballina and Killaloe. The annual festival aims to keep alive the name of Ireland's High King in his native place, generate interest and awareness of the Arts and Heritage and highlighting local history and traditions.
Every year there are dozens of events including those suitable for families, adults, and children alike. While the schedule of events has yet to be announced, you can expect an array of arts, culture, and of course, craic.
For more information, visit the Féile Brian Ború website.
Scariff Habour Festival, July/August (Dates TBC)
The Scariff Harbour Festival is an annual open-air, street-based event to showcase the many attractions and amenities accessible from Scariff, including Lough Derg, the inland waterways and the East Clare countryside.
Events include an incredible lineup of live music, a food and craft fair, tours of local businesses, workshops and more.
For more information, visit the Scariff Harbour Festival website.
Feakle Festival, August 7th-12th
Feakle is at the centre of traditional music in Ireland, and every year visitors from all over the world come to the Feakle Festival. The festival will be in its 37th year and is internationally recognised.
For a few days each August, the village becomes a very special place where the best in traditional music can be heard, songs sung, dances danced and friends meet up again for another Feakle Festival.
There will be a range of festival events, workshops, and of course music sessions. All of which will have further details announced closer to the festival.
For more information, visit the Feakle Festival website.
National Heritage Week, August 17th-24th
Each year, Ireland celebrates its natural, built and cultural heritage with an inspiring, informative and enjoyable programme of events. any national and hundreds of local community organisations participate by organising events throughout the country. Many of the events that take place during the week are free and the programme highlights the abundance of great work that is carried out in all communities in Ireland to preserve and promote our natural, built and cultural heritage.
Events take place across East Clare, however, details of these events won't be announced until closer to the date.
For more information, visit the National Heritage Week website.
Tuamgraney Community Weekend, Summer 2024 (Dates TBC)
Tuamgraney Community Weekend is an annual celebration of all that is great about Tuamgraney's community. The community weekend provides much fun and entertainment to adults and children alike.
For more information, visit the Tuamgraney Community Weekend Facebook page.
Quest Lough Derg, September 7th
The Quest Adventure Series Lough Derg is to return to the shores of East Clare once again in September 2024. The race is to take place on the 7th of September. There are three routes to choose from of varying lengths, so whether you are an experienced racer or a novice there are options for everyone.
For more information, visit the Quest Lough Derg website.
Culture Night, September 20th
Each year, Culture Night invites everyone, everywhere, on one joyful night to discover and celebrate all that our culture is today. A range of events take place across the towns and villages of East Clare, details of which will be shared on the Culture Night's website closer to the date.
