Clare Summer Festivals 2025: Fun-Filled Events

There are 51 festivals in Ireland from late May to the end of August 2025. Many feature traditional music and dance¹. Clare, known for its cultural heritage, has lots to offer. As summer 2025 nears, the excitement for Clare’s events grows. The Mountshannon Arts Festival, a key event since 1997², and the 37th Feakle Festival await, offering something for all tastes.

This May, the Bodyke Annual Festival promises fun for everyone². The Scariff Harbour Festival’s lively street events attract big crowds each year². Adventure and beauty lovers should check out the Quest Adventure Series Lough Derg race on the 7th of September².

These events are just a taste of what the Clare Summer Festival guide offers. If you’re local or visiting, our guide ensures you catch the best of County Clare’s 2025 events.

Key Takeaways

• Over 51 festivals will be held in Ireland from late May to the end of August 2025¹.
• Mountshannon Arts Festival has been an annual event since 1997².
• Feakle Festival is celebrating its 37th year².
• Bodyke Annual Festival returns this May Bank Holiday Weekend².
• Quest Adventure Series Lough Derg race takes place on the 7th of September².

Introduction to Clare Summer Festivals 2025

Looking forward, the 2025 Clare Summer Festivals are just around the corner. These events include music, culture, and sports for everyone. The year kicks off with January’s First Fortnight and the Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, drawing big crowds to varied events³.

February brings even more, with 3-4 times the number of events seen in January³. The Dublin International Film Festival and Ortús Chamber Music Fest reveal talent from Ireland and worldwide. This showcases the rich, diverse culture of Ireland.

March means more fun, with events like the Fingal International Festival in Dublin, featuring singers from around the globe³. The Otherside Music & Arts Festival offers a mix of music, art, wellness, and food over three days starting March 17th³.

April highlights unique stories at the Catalyst International Film Fest in Limerick from April 18th to 20th. Simultaneously, the Waterford Food Fest displays Ireland’s food culture through over 80 events³.

Now, let’s remember Clare’s local celebrations. Since 1973, Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy has attracted music lovers worldwide. It offers instrument and dance classes, showing Clare’s commitment to Irish traditions thanks to sponsors like The Arts Council and Clare County Council⁴.

Don’t miss the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Ennis on Sunday, March 17th, starting at 11 am⁵. Each event adds to a special cultural experience recalling County Clare’s charm. The 2025 Clare Summer Festivals promise lasting memories.

Celebrating Imbolc: The Arrival of Spring

The Imbolc festival in Ireland marks the start of spring. It’s a key event in Irish culture, especially in Clare. Here, historic customs and lively community activities celebrate spring’s arrival. This festival’s rich history and events make it truly special.

Historical Significance

Imbolc falls halfway between winter and spring⁶⁷. It’s linked to St. Brigid’s Day on the 1st of February⁶⁷⁸. St. Brigid was a key Irish saint, deeply rooted in Irish culture. Her memory lives on in traditional practices marked over centuries.

Traditional Activities and Events

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park will host the Imbolc festival on February 4th, offering many activities⁶⁷. You can learn to make Saint Brigid’s Cross, a long-standing Irish home decoration⁶. There’s also butter making and basket weaving demonstrations, showcasing ancient crafts⁶⁷. These activities share and preserve skills from old times.

The festival focuses on native Irish animals, featuring breeds like Droimeann cattle and Irish Wolfhounds⁶⁷. The Wolfhound Society of Ireland will be there to talk about these special breeds⁶⁷. Kids will enjoy the 26-acre folk park, with storytelling and circus acts⁶⁷. Vintage agricultural machinery will also be on display, bridging history with the present⁶.

The Imbolc festival is a major part of Clare’s spring celebrations. It helps people, whether local or visitors, truly feel Ireland’s cultural legacy. It’s a special chance to dive into the traditions that have defined Ireland during its long history.

St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations in East Clare

St. Patrick’s Day in East Clare is full of life, reflecting true Irish spirit. It offers a mix of music, dance, and cultural displays. These bring the community together in an exciting way.

Parades and Processions

On Sunday, March 17, the East Clare St. Patrick’s Day parade will charm visitors from near and far⁹. The fun will start at 10.15 am with pre-parade shows to set the mood⁹. The parade itself begins at 11 am from Áras Contae an Chláir. It will follow a beautiful path through the town⁹. The parade includes the talented Maura O’Connell leading, all the way from Nashville⁹. Also, look out for guests from Langenfeld, Ennis’s twin town, making it international⁹.

Roads on the parade’s way will be shut to keep everyone safe and happy⁹. Don’t worry about parking, as there will be extra spots at important locations⁹. For those needing it, disabled parking is set at Friar’s Walk carpark and the Courthouse, Lifford⁹.

Music and Dance Performances

The event wouldn’t be the same without Irish dance and music. You can enjoy traditional performances, from lively jigs to moving songs. This connects everyone to Ireland’s deep cultural heritage.

Local and visiting artists will perform. These shows both entertain and deeply connect the audience to Ireland’s essence.

Cultural Showcases

Cultural events on St. Patrick’s Day in East Clare are a treat for exploring Irish traditions. There will be exhibits and workshops highlighting crafts, stories, and history. This enriches our understanding and love for Irish culture.

These activities are fun and informative for all ages, encouraging community participation. Local experts in art and history add a special touch to the celebrations, sharing their love for Ireland.

Tuamgraney Harp Festival

The Tuamgraney Harp Festival starts on April 5th in the evening. It runs for two days with lots to do like workshops and concerts¹⁰. This event celebrates the Irish harp, part of Ireland’s culture, and draws fans of Irish music.

Workshops and Sessions

At the festival, there are workshops with famous musicians teaching traditional Irish music. These are perfect for both new and experienced harp players to get better and learn about the harp’s story. Similar to the Feakle Festival, known worldwide for its music, this fest aims to educate people through these activities¹⁰¹¹.

Concerts and Recitals

The fest wraps up with amazing concerts and stage performances by skilled harpists. They celebrate both the old and new ways of playing the harp. Combining these with competitions makes the festival vital for Tuamgraney’s cultural scene¹⁰.

Festivals like the Tuamgraney Harp Festival are key in keeping traditional Irish music alive. They bring folks together to celebrate with music, lessons, and shows. This way, the harp’s heritage keeps growing in its cultural importance.

Bodyke Annual Festival

The Bodyke Annual Festival is a much-loved event. It runs from the 29th April to 1st May over the May Bank Holiday Weekend. It’s a top choice for families, bringing everyone together through fun activities and music¹².

Live Music Lineup

This festival is known for its great music. There will be shows by famous bands and local stars. Music lovers won’t want to miss this standout event¹².

Family Fun Sports Day

There’s also a Family Fun Sports Day. It lets families enjoy all kinds of sports and games. It’s a day of friendly play and fun for everyone, adding to the festival’s charm¹².

Additional Activities

There’s more than just music and sports. Visitors can check out food stalls and craft markets. It’s a great way to support locals and find unique items¹².

The festival truly shows off County Clare’s lively spirit. With its music, games, and activities for all, it’s an event not to be missed¹².

Mountshannon Arts Festival: A Cultural Extravaganza

The Mountshannon Arts Festival is key on the cultural calendar. It draws in both locals and visitors with its wide range of events. At its core is the visual arts, offering a rich experience. This event shows off Clare’s best arts and crafts. In 2025, prepare for new art exhibitions, exciting performances, and activities for the whole family. All this against the stunning backdrop of the village by the lake.

Art Exhibitions

The festival shines with Ireland’s top visual art shows. You’ll see a mix of new and known artists’ works. From paintings to installations, it’s all there to enjoy. The festival’s focus on top-notch and creative art makes it a hit with everyone.

Performances and Workshops

This year promises great performances. The Tolka Hot Club will bring jazz to The Hall in Mountshannon¹³. Plus, there will be workshops run by skilled artists. These sessions aim to boost your creativity. They offer chances to dive into arts like painting, crafts, and more.

Family-Oriented Activities

The festival has lots for families. There are art spaces and fun performances for everyone. It’s all about enjoying and learning together. The festival aims to grow love and understanding for Clare’s arts and crafts. It does this by offering enjoyable and smart activities.

The Mountshannon Arts Festival is a must for anyone who loves culture. It mingles a small village’s appeal with a massive dose of artistic beauty. The event is about more than just showcasing art. It’s about uniting the community in a love for all things creative.

Féile Brian Ború: Honouring Ireland’s High King

The Féile Brian Ború festival honours the legacy of the High King. It showcases a mix of historical events, arts, and Irish heritage in Killaloe and Ballina. Locals and tourists love the rich traditions that pay tribute to Brian Ború at this yearly event.

Historical Reenactments

The festival’s historical reenactments are a major draw. They take visitors on a journey back to Ireland’s High King time. With live shows and storytellings, these events make history truly come alive in Clare.

Arts and Heritage Events

This festival stands out with its arts and heritage events. It includes a fireworks show, a classic car exhibition, and water activities. Plus, there’s the annual Shannon Swim, poetry readings, and music. Everyone found something they loved at the 30th Féile Brian Ború¹⁴.

Family-Friendly Activities

Féile Brian Ború offers more than just history. There’s a lot of fun for families, from swimming competitions to a cars and coffee-style event. Plus, children get medals and goody bags. There’s music for all ages too¹⁴.

This festival combines Irish heritage with exciting activities. It’s a top event for experiencing Clare’s best in a festive way.

Scariff Harbour Festival

At the peaceful shores of Lough Derg lies the Scariff Harbour Festival. It’s a key event in County Clare’s social calendar. This festival, like others in Clare, brings together music, food, and crafts. It’s full of life and energy.

Music Performances

The festival sparkles with many live music shows. Talented local musicians and artists from all over Ireland perform. This festival is part of a group of 83 cultural events listed in the region¹⁵. It offers a rich experience for all.

Food and Craft Fair

The food and craft fair is a gem at the Scariff Harbour Festival. You’ll find stalls packed with unique foods, local products, and handmade goods. It’s a standout among the 51 festivals happening in Clare between late May and August 2025¹⁶. Visitors not only buy things but also listen to stories behind the products.

Tours and Workshops

There are special tours and workshops at this festival. They let you get hands-on with local customs and crafts. It’s all about connecting with County Clare’s roots and traditions. The celebration lasts for a while, including the Summer Music on the Shannon event until August 12¹⁷.

The Scariff Harbour Festival takes you deep into Clare’s culture, food, and arts. It’s an unforgettable experience.

Feakle Festival: A Hub for Traditional Music

The Feakle Festival is known worldwide for its Irish music. People from everywhere come to enjoy and learn. It’s a chance to be part of Ireland’s musical history¹⁸.

Festival Highlights

Feakle village becomes lively during the music festival. Music legends like Eileen Ivers and Sharon Shannon perform. Sharon’s album “Galway Girl” went 4 times platinum in Ireland¹⁸. It’s an amazing celebration of Irish music, perfect for any fan.

Workshops and Sessions

The festival also offers workshops music Ireland. You can learn from the best, like Kevin Crawford of Lúnasa¹⁸. It’s a great way to keep Irish music traditions alive.

Visitor Insights

People love the Feakle festival’s mix of performances and workshops. It brings together both experts and newcomers. Kevin Burke often joins, sharing his fiddle insights¹⁸. It’s a special time for those interested in Irish music and culture.

Festivals in Clare Summer 2025

We’re excited to show you the summer events in Clare for 2025. There’s a lot happening, from fun festivals to interesting shows. The 2025 festival lineup Ireland has something for everyone.

Things start on Wednesday, June 12, 2025, at Clare Union Train Depot, running from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Then, there are events at Gladwin Heights Golf Course from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM¹⁹. This only builds up to the main event, starting on Tuesday, June 18, 2025, at 5:00 PM. It runs until Saturday, June 22, 2025, at 10:00 PM¹⁹.

The Mountshannon Arts Festival is a cultural gem held since 1997. It shows off Clare’s artistic spirit. Then there’s the Feakle Festival, now in its 37th year. It’s key for the area’s tradition and music².

Visit Shamrock Park on Thursday, June 20, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. There’s another great event there on Thursday, June 27, 2025, at the same time¹⁹. Don’t miss the peak event on Saturday, June 29, 2025, at Paws-A-While, 313 East 4th Street, from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM¹⁹.

In the 2025 festival lineup Ireland, Culture Night is a highlight. It’s a time to cheer our rich history together. Plus, the Quest Adventure Series Lough Derg on September 7th is a thrill for adventure fans. Everyone’s excited about it².

These festivals are making festival tourism Clare more popular than ever. With lots of fun events, visitors can explore local customs and celebration all summer. It’s a great time to be in Clare.

National Heritage Week in Clare

Clare’s National Heritage Week celebrates local history and customs. It shows off the area’s deep roots and traditions. Everyone, from near and far, can join the fun.

Event Highlights

From August 17th to August 25th, Clare will be buzzing with cultural events²⁰. On August 17th, the clean-up at Ireland Eye and the Heritage Tour show the beauty of the area²⁰. Have fun at the House Dance on Scattery Island on August 24th²⁰. Also, learn about Glendalough’s seven churches at the event in Templenaskellig²⁰.

Community Participation

Heritage Week brings locals together with visitors, sharing Clare’s tales. Hop on the Coastal Heritage Cruise from August 20th to 23rd²⁰. It’s a mix of history and fun. On August 19th, listen to the dramatic tales at Achill’s story session²⁰. These events show Clare’s community spirit and love for its history.

Tuamgraney Community Weekend

The Tuamgraney Community Weekend is at the heart of Clare’s community festivals. It brings Tuamgraney alive with an electric buzz and celebrates local life. Here, the rich heritage of the Tuamgraney area shines, especially through its traditional Irish music².

Key Events and Activities

The Tuamgraney Harp Festival is a highlight, starting on the evening of April 5th². It’s a chance to hear stunning harp music and join in workshops. Plus, the Culture Night adds more fun. With a mix of music and shows, it draws both locals and visitors. This boosts the community spirit².

Family Fun

The Community Weekend is full of fun activities for all the family. There are games, crafts, and sports for everyone to enjoy. Laughter fills the air, making happy memories for all. It shows how much Tuamgraney cares about sharing joy with its community. It’s a top spot for family fun, against Clare’s diverse festival scene.

Quest Adventure Series Lough Derg

The Quest Adventure Series Lough Derg draws adventure lovers from all over Ireland. It’s set in the stunning East Clare. The mix of tough tracks and beautiful views make it a top choice for those who love the outdoors.

Event Routes and Options

At Quest Lough Derg, you can pick from different tracks. There are tracks for running, cycling, and kayaking. It’s perfect whether you’re just starting or you’re an expert racer. Even if you’re new to adventure racing Ireland, you’ll find it amazing. Events like the Gaelforce West 66km Adventure Race show the area’s passion for outdoor fun²¹²². Plus, local runs such as the Born To Run and Mayo AC 5km Series make the region’s racing scene even livelier²³²².

Participation Details

If you’re in an athletics club, you don’t need to buy extra licences. This makes joining in much easier²¹. Southern Ireland’s race calendar gets about 7,000 views per month. This shows how much people are into these events²¹. You can keep up with all the races in southern Ireland by checking their race calendar. Make sure to look for races like the Summer Solstice 10k Run in Ennis, Co. Clare, for amazing experiences. And the Clare Summer Festivals 2025 will be full of chances for anyone keen on outdoor activities Clare²¹²². Also, the Running Calendar is a great guide for planning your race entries.

Willie Clancy Summer Music Festival

This year, the Willie Clancy Festival in Miltown Malbay marks its 50th year²⁴. It has become a key event for the traditional Irish music community. Mixing education with fun, it welcomes everyone to explore Ireland’s music and dance culture.

50th Anniversary Highlights

From July 6th to 14th, Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare, will host the Willie Clancy Festival²⁴. This milestone celebrates the festival’s lasting impact over the past fifty years. It’s known across Ireland as a top event for learning and enjoying traditional music.

Classes and Workshops

The festival has a huge schedule of classes and workshops on traditional Irish music and arts. Joining means learning from the best, offering beginners and experts learning opportunities. This side of the festival makes it special, promoting traditional music teaching and learning.

Music Sessions

Its lively music sessions are a favorite, open to everyone from beginners to pros. These gatherings breathe life into Ireland’s musical heritage, showing the warmth and togetherness in its music. They’re a chance to bond and have a great time at the festival.

Clare Irish Festival

The Clare Irish Festival is famous for its lively celebrations. It unites everyone to enjoy Irish culture and traditions. Celebrating its 49th year, from March 11 to March 17, with many events²⁵.

Festival Events

The festival has special themed days during Spirit Week. People dress up according to each day’s theme:

• Monday, March 11: Spirit Week theme: funky socks
• Tuesday, March 12: Spirit Week theme: Shamrockin’
• Wednesday, March 13: Spirit Week theme: Pot of Gold
• Thursday, March 14: Spirit Week theme: Rainbow
• Friday, March 15: Spirit Week theme: Top of the Morning to Ya
• Saturday, March 16: Spirit Week theme: Luck of the Irish
• Sunday, March 17: Community members are encouraged to wear shirts that represent Clare

These fun daily themes make the festival exciting. They encourage people to join in and enjoy the spirit of the Clare Irish Festival²⁵.

Parade Details

The Clare parade is a highlight, attracting many to the town’s streets. It features decorated floats, local bands, and cultural shows. This event showcases the deep Irish heritage and the community’s celebration spirit²⁵.

Contests and Competitions

The festival offers various contests and competitions for all ages. Some include:

• Poster Contest
• Business Decorating Contest
• Jazz Band Performances
• Irish Recipe Contest
• Craft & Vendor Markets

The Leprechaun Contest, Road Race, and ‘Are You Irish?’ Contest feature as well. They reflect the community’s talent and joy. These events are key to the festival’s success, encouraging many to take part and feel pride²⁵.

Conclusion

The Clare Summer Festivals of 2025 showcase a wide range of cultural events. This makes it a top spot for festival fun in Ireland. There’s the 49th annual Clare Irish Festival, packed with activities from March 11 to 17, 2025²⁵. The Willie Clancy Summer School will have famous acts, like Gairloch and The Scuffletown Trio²⁶. Every part of County Clare will be buzzing with life and music.

In July, thirty events are planned for festival-goers to enjoy²⁷. You can head to the Botanic Garden for music on Wednesdays²⁷. And don’t miss the Choir of Clare College and Ariel Lanyi’s performances²⁷. These celebrations show the mix of old traditions and new fun. They highlight the rich culture and activities that make this place special.

Every festival reflects Clare’s commitment to its heritage and community. From Mountshannon Arts Festival’s family fun to Féile Brian Ború’s historic shows, each event is significant. We welcome all to the Clare summer celebrations. It’s a chance to enjoy history, culture, and non-stop fun in 2025. Let’s create great memories and enjoy the amazing festival vibe that Ireland has to offer.

References:

1. summer festivals 2025 – Irish Bliss
2. 2025 Events in East Clare – Tourism East Clare
3. 103 Festivals In Ireland Taking Place In 2025 (Food, Comedy, Music + More)
4. About | SSWC Official Site
5. St Patrick’s Day 2025 in Clare: details of all the parades and events around the county
6. Bunratty Celebrates Ancient Pagan Festival Of Imbolc | Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
7. Bunratty To Celebrate Ancient Pagan Festival Of Imbolc | Hospitality Ireland
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11. News – Clareville House
12. Festivals in Clare in 2023
13. Concerts, Festivals & Upcoming Deadlines (27 May–2 June 2025)
14. 30th Annual Féile Brian Ború Festival – Killaloe and Ballina
15. Scariff Harbour Festival 2023 – Irish Bliss
16. Irish Music Festivals – Irish Bliss
17. Raining festivals over the weekend – The Clare Champion
18. Tour Musicians – Wild Atlantic Music Tours – Traditional Irish Music Tours
19. Clare Area Schedule of Events — Clare Area Chamber of Commerce
20. Island hopping through heritage – A spotlight on Heritage Week island events | Seachtain Náisiúnta na Oidhreachta 13 – 21 Lúnasa 2022
21. Calendar
22. Fixtures 2025
23. Running Calendar Ireland – 2025
24. Music Festivals 2025–2025 | Ireland | UK | Europe | USA
25. Clare Irish Festival details events and activities for 2025
26. Home | SSWC Official Site
27. CSM Festival 2025 | Cambridge Summer Music