Ireland, known world-wide as the home of writers, poets and musicians, has so much to offer its visitors on Ireland Vacations. Throughout the year there are numerous events taking place across this beautiful land.
The events range from classical to informal fun. The Dublin Theater Festival is Europe's oldest specialist theater festival and offers a unique opportunity to see the best of world theater alongside new productions from all the major Irish companies including the Abbey and Gate. The Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival , on the other hand, is one of Ireland's most interesting festivals. From early September to early October, visitors flock from all over the world to partake in music, dance and the general post harvest merriment and play. It is Europe's biggest singles event. One could not mention Irish festivals without including the world-renowned Rose of Tralee Festival . This talent competition that draws competitors to the town of Tralee from all four corners of the world takes place during August.
There are also numerous food festivals such as the Galway Oyster Festival which is rated by the Sunday Times as one of the top 12 events in the world. This famous festival features gourmet food and excellent entertainment in the wonderful setting of Galway city. An estimated 100,000 Native Oysters (Ostrea Edulis) will be consumed during the Festival! Or, go to Kinsale (said to be the Gourmet capital of Ireland) for the Kinsale Gourmet Festival , which takes place in October. This is a three day Mecca for dining, Irish dancing, wine tasting and the Great Gatsby Gala Ball on the Saturday evening.
If you are into sports you could take in the All-Ireland Hurling Finals. Alternatively, you could join over 38,000 women who participate in Dublin City's Women's Mini-Marathon. This 10km race, raises millions of dollars for charity. If you like horses, you should not miss the Connemara Pony Show, which is the largest display of the finest Connemara ponies in the world and takes place in Clifden on the third Thursday of August every year. The Show has been organised by the society since 1924 and over 400 ponies travel from all over the country to take part in this unique event. Whatever your tastes we are sure that you will find something to suit your liking during your stay on this Island that we proudly call Home.