One of the benefits of holidaying with Ireland Chauffeur Travel is our knowledge. Travel with us allows for truly private tours of Ireland. Aside from the beautiful sites around the Emerald Island, the wonderful hotels and the endless culinary options, we like to think that the real value is in our expertise. We really do know Ireland like the back of our hand and know what is on and when.
Below are just a few of the fun festivals Ireland has to offer which can be built into your tour.
Puck Fair: August dates TBC
It might sound like the start of a fairytale, but the Puck Fair is one of Ireland’s oldest and most unique fairs. Since 1603, for three days in August, a small town in County Kerry – Killorglin – is locked in celebration of a wild goat! The crowned King Puck stands over the town as temporary ruler for three days as the festivities roll, before being returned to the wild.
This celebration, which is steeped in history and tradition, is one not to miss.
The Rose of Tralee: August dates TBC
The Rose of Tralee is one of those uniquely Irish gems. Celebrated for over 60 years and followed from across the globe, every Irish person will be able to give you a memory from the festival, which celebrates Ireland and her diaspora. Entrants compete over one weekend in this world-televised event to be the “Rose of Tralee”. The festival not only celebrates Irish ancestry but what Irish people are doing around the world. Each contestant tells their stories, and experiences and shares their talents. The winner goes on to represent their city or country on a world tour for the following year.
Red Head Convention: August dates TBC
Red hair is synonymous with Ireland and there is now an annual event to celebrate “all things to do with having fabulous red hair, the rarest hair colour in the world”. Held in the Cork village of Crosshaven, this is a festival of pure fun and hilarity which sees redheads from all over the country and the world comes together to celebrate that rarest of genes. There are even numerous awards up for grabs!
Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival: September dates TBC
Will the luck of the Irish be on your side when it comes to love? With the help of the world-renowned Lisdoonvarra Matchmaking festival, it just might be! This is the original offline matchmaking festival; a month-long festival in the village of Lisdoonvarna, on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, with endless opportunities to get together and meet new people from around the world. The festival also boasts Ireland’s top country musicians, so your matchmaking days won’t be without that special atmospheric touch. It’s no surprise this over-18s event attracts thousands of people every year.
Ploughing Championships: September dates TBC
The National Ploughing Championships takes place each year in the month of September in Laois. A national farming tressure. It is a week-long event which sees the farmers of the country compete in very precise ploughing challenges. But it’s not only a ploughing competition, this event also boasts serious shopping, gourmet food offerings and great daily entertainment. It’s a must-do for families.
Cork Jazz Festival: October The Cork Jazz Festival is an annual music festival held in Cork, in late October. The first festival began in 1978, conceived by Jim Mountjoy, the marketing manager of the Metropole Hotel. Designed to coincide with the newly instituted October Bank Holiday, it was the perfect way to build demand for the hotel and it has grown every year since. The city comes alive with the sound of the blues echoing out of every venue, from the smallest cosy pub to the Opera House. Talented and colourful street artists add an extra flair to the city squares and parks from morning until dusk. This really is a chance to see Cork come alive while you enjoy some of the world’s most famous jazz musicians and performers.