Visiting Ireland you will be spoilt for choice - there are literally hundreds of festivals going on throughout the year. With several dozens on an average summer weekend. From the local Country Fair to the massive celebrations in Dublin. Where should you go, what should you see?
One of the few celebrations on St Patrick's Day (and the days surrounding March 17th) that reaches the dizzy heights of festivals in the USA - rural parades and festivals tend to be much more parochial and amateurish. If you want slick colorful fun, Dublin is the place to go. Flee the capital if your tastes run to quieter celebrations.
Ireland's national music festival and a feast for lovers of traditional folk. Held every year in late August at different locations and attracts legions of musicians and other performers.
Sponsored by Fáilte Ireland this is the main equestrian event in Ireland. Showjumping, dressage, and the exciting hunt chase are top-notch events every August. Apart from the best riders and horses competing for the Aga Khan Trophy you can see female visitors competing for the "Best Dressed" title on Ladies' Day.
On (and around) July 12th Loyalists everywhere in Northern Ireland are celebrating King William's victory at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690. With marches, bands and enormous bonfires. Republicans turn a blind eye or protest. Despite all sectarian tension the celebrations are a sight to behold. Though not for the faint-hearted and definitely no place to discuss politics.
The traditional highlight of the Easter Week for lovers of fast horses and high stakes - traffic jams around the tiny Meath hamlet of Fairyhouse and delighted "bookies" included. See the best horses and jockeys competing in the Irish Grand National on Easter Monday.
Every year hundreds of singles and thousands of supporters flood the Clare town of Lisdoonvarna in September - to find the partner for life or to simply have a good time. Matchmakers match prospective partners in a time-honored tradition and everybody is happy. Or not. Some matches are not made in heaven ...
Held every year at the beginning of fall this is one of the best bluegrass festivals in Ireland and the only one in a congenial atmosphere. Stroll amongst American farmsteads and hear the sounds of the Appalachian folk culture. Definitely recommended for homesick travellers!
A goat is crowned king in the Kerry town of Killorglin and all hell breaks loose - not a plot for a cheap horror flick but a tradition with pagan roots. Still practiced for three days every August, on the 10th, 11th and 12th. Music, entertainment and pageants range from the traditional to the modern. Don't miss the election of the "Queen of Puck"!
Tens of thousands make the annual pilgrimage to Croke Park bedecked in their county's colors - every September sees the All-Ireland Finals in the Gaelic sports of hurling and football. Even if you do not understand the rules, the pace of the games is breathtaking. And the enthusiasm of the fans unrivaled.
A beauty pageant of saccharine sweetness with Irish colleens from all over the world competing for the title of the "Rose of Tralee". Nobody in Ireland admits to watching the contest, yet the live programs on RTÉ regularly are amongst the most popular TV events every August!
