Welcome to the Go Visit Donegal Blog

Summer Festivals in Donegal, save the date…



 With the Winter weather coming to a close (finally) we decided to help you plan your Summer calendar with some of our “must be at” events in Donegal this year.
Donegal loves to welcome people and show them what living is all about and throughout the county there are some amazing festival and events on offer for all interests the below are just some of the options, check them all out at https://donegalgathering.com/

APRIL

Inishowen Sea Symposium 2018


The Inishowen Sea Symposium is a must for anyone interested in sea kayaking, whether you’re a novice or experienced kayaker.
With some of the top coaches in Ireland and the UK guiding you, you will see Donegal’s coastline from a unique vantage point. Over three days from April 6th -  8th 2018 taking part in this beautiful guided paddle, with talks and demonstrations in the evenings, attendees will experience the activity they love with like-minded people. 


The Amazing Grace Festival 2018 - Buncrana

April 4th – 9th 2018 will see Buncrana celebrate the life and story of John Newton, who in 1748 landed in Ireland to find refuge from a violent storm. From this moment he began a spiritual journey that has impacted events in history.
With heritage tours, walks, music and children’s activities, the Amazing Grace Festival is a time of celebration and culture that all the family can enjoy.
More details available: www.amazinggrace.ie


MAY

The “Cup of Tae” Festival – Ardara
Aptly names after an Irish reel, the “Cup of Tae” festival is a long weekend and music in celebration of John “the tae” Gallagher. For those who play instrument, dance or just like to listen this festival is all you need. Classes are offered for all levels, open-air concerts and don’t forget to check out the storytelling by the fire at night.
Enjoyment for all ages!
Ardara, May 4th – 7th 2018

More details available: 
http://cupoftaefestival.com/?page_id=16



Mícheál Ó Cléirigh Summer School

In Rossnowlagh from May 11th – 13th 2018 locals and visitors alike gather to remember a great local man, Mícheál Ó Cléirigh, as one of the four men who studied the lives of Irelands ssints and ancient manuscripts and books, he has left a wonderous account and record of Ireland past in Annála Ríochta na hÉireann (the Annals of the Four Masters). 
With a weekend of learning, walking the beautiful Rossnowlagh beach and local historical site, you will feel more connected to the area and the people of the present and the past.
More details available: http://mocleirigh.ie/home


JUNE

Donegal Garden Trail 2018
With 22 private and public gardens to explore Donegal is the place to be for all those with green fingers.
Gates opened in 2017 and in a variety of locations in Donegal to celebrate and enjoy gardening, with ornamental horticulture, castle gardens, cottage and country houses on the list to see, this versatile trail is a fantastical part in Donegal.
As all seasons are changing you’ll find something magical here each time you visit.
More details available: http://www.donegalgardentrail.com/site/


Sea Sessions Surf & Music Festival 2018

Calling all music lovers… this is the place to be!
A weekend of music, camping, surfing and much more await you at sea session in Bundoran. Running for 10 years this festival is growing better and bigger each time. Giving the opportunity for emerging Irish artist to get onstage with big names, there is a band for everyone to enjoy and a reason from every one to go.
More details available: http://seasessions.com/




JULY


Over 19 days this unique festival is an exploration of arts in Irish and English throughout Donegal’s Wild Atlantic Way.
This celebration of the arts has a unique twist with venues including theatres, galleries and even forests and beaches, using the distinctive landscape available. To make production even more remarkable and the experience magical.  
For over 28 years various collaborations have allowed this festival to develop into an inclusive entertaining festival that reaches all people in the county.





Swell Festival 2018: July 27th – 29th 2018
Arranmore Island, Co. Donegal
Swell Festival is a music and arts festival taking place on Arranmore Island off the coast of Donegal in North West Ireland. You can expect a huge selection of Comedy, Irish Language, Poetry, DJ’s and other performances and activities throughout the weekend.
Arranmore Island is situated off the coast of Donegal and on the Wild Atlantic Way.  The Island is home to Swell Festival running on the 22nd and 23rd July 2017.
Arranmore oozes heritage and culture with day 2 of the festival celebrating Gaelic Culture and transatlantic folk & roots. Arranmore Ferry (Blue Ferry), operates a daily schedule between Burtonport and the Island, journey time being approximately 15 minutes.
In addition to the quality entertainment from Swell festival, there are a number of activities to do on the island including diving, fishing, and hiking, visiting the lighthouse and relaxing on the stunning beaches around the Island.
See you on the Island!


Burtonport Festival 

Week long family festival of fun, music sport and dance for all the family.
Easily described as one of the “Best Family Festivals” in Donegal, the Burtonport Summer Festival keeps the whole family in mind – from an action-packed selection of children’s activities & outdoor adventures for all the family, street music throughout the day and Island adventures that will create unforgettable childhood memories.





AUGUST

Loinneog Lúnasa

Gaoth Dobhair (Gweedore) community opens its arms to the public from 9th – 13th August 2018. Loinneog Lúnasa celebrates the music and culture of the Gaeltacht in Donegal.
With drama, music, culture, and history experienced in a range of activities, Loinneog Lúnasa offers an opportunity to experience the heart of Ireland’s culture and sense of being Irish. 
For more details visit http://loinneoglunasa.com/


Ballyshannon Folk Festival

August bank holiday weekend sees the 41st Ballyshannon Folk Festival take to the stage. With Aslan, Paddy Casey and Flat Out just some of the names taking part this year there’s a band for all music styles and tastes… The festival offers an amazing opportunity for musicians to showcase their talent and share their love of music with others!
Revellers can take part with pub sessions, street entertainment and showcases over the long weekend.
For more details visit http://ballyshannonfolkfestival.com/


For more details on these and many more great festivals and events visit http://www.govisitdonegal.com/