Explore the lively Festivals in Donegal autumn 2025! We’ve put together a list of fun events for everyone. Celebrate Irish culture, music, and traditions with us. From the Donegal Town 550th anniversary to the Mary From Dungloe International Arts Festival, there’s plenty to see and do. Join us for memorable times as Donegal shines with colourful celebrations throughout the autumn season.
Key Takeaways
- Discover a diverse range of Donegal events 2025 celebrating Irish culture, music, and traditions.
- Experience the vibrant autumn festivals in Ireland with something for all interests and age groups.
- Explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Donegal Town during its 550th anniversary celebrations.
- Immerse yourself in the Irish cultural events and traditional Irish festivals across the Donegal region.
- Enjoy the Donegal tourism autumn season with a variety of local festivals and seasonal events.
Donegal Town 550th
In 2025, Donegal Town will mark a big milestone – its 550th birthday. It all started in 1474 when Lady Nuala O’Donnell set up a Franciscan Abbey by Donegal Bay. Around the same time, her husband Red Hugh O’Donnell the First built Donegal Castle. These two landmarks helped shape the town into the cultural heart of County Donegal it is today.
The Donegal Town 550th celebrations will run from 15th March to 31st December 2025. They’ll celebrate the town’s deep Donegal history and its role as a Donegal cultural hub. There will be many events and activities. They’ll highlight the town’s Donegal heritage and its importance in the area.
“Donegal Town has a unique and captivating history that has shaped its development into the vibrant cultural centre it is today. The 550th anniversary celebrations will be a fantastic opportunity to celebrate this legacy and invite visitors to immerse themselves in the town’s rich heritage.”
Oideas Gael Language & Cultural Courses
Come join us as Oideas Gael celebrates 40 years of top-notch Irish language courses and cultural activity holidays for adults in the beautiful Donegal Gaeltacht. From 15th March to 28th October 2025, our centre in Gleann Cholm Cille, County Donegal, is open for a wide range of programmes. These are for all levels, from beginners to those who love Irish cultural activities.
Experience the area’s language and traditions with our cultural holidays Donegal. Learn or improve your Irish in a place of stunning beauty and rich culture. Our expert teachers and fun activities make sure you’ll have an experience you won’t forget, whether you’re new or returning to Oideas Gael.
“Oideas Gael has been a transformative experience for me, allowing me to immerse myself in the rich linguistic and cultural tapestry of Donegal. The instructors’ passion and the welcoming community have made every visit truly special.”
| Programme | Duration | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Irish Language Courses | 1-2 weeks | 15th March – 28th October 2025 |
| Cultural Activity Holidays | 1 week | 15th March – 28th October 2025 |
Join us in celebrating the rich heritage and vibrant culture of the Donegal Gaeltacht with Oideas Gael’s unique language and cultural programmes. Dive into the world of Irish language and traditions. Make memories that will touch your heart. We can’t wait to welcome you to our special part of Ireland.
Donegal Garden Trail
In 2025, County Donegal invites you on a charming Donegal Garden Trail. It’s a chance to dive into the county’s beautiful parks and gardens. This trail lets you experience the magic of Donegal’s nature.
The trail has 17 spots across the county, open to everyone. You can visit any time of the year, spring, summer, or autumn. It’s perfect for anyone who loves plants and nature.
- Glenveagh National Park, with its stunning castle and views, is a top spot on the trail.
- The Donegal Craft Village shows off the area’s long history of tweed making.
- Horn Head in Dunfanaghy offers amazing sea views and ancient stone circles to explore.
- Ardara, a small town, has many pubs and cafés where you can relax.
On the Donegal Garden Trail, you’ll see the county’s natural beauty. From the huge Slieve League cliffs to the old Grianan of Aileach fort. This fort gives you views over three Irish counties.
The Donegal Garden Trail is perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, or anyone looking for peace. It’s a journey through Donegal’s parks and gardens. Let the beauty and calm of Donegal inspire and refresh you.
Traditional Music Sessions
Start a magical journey into traditional Irish music at the weekly sessions every Friday night from 21st June to 6th September 2025. These events, hosted by talented local and visiting musicians, celebrate the deep roots of Traditional Irish music.
Whether you love music or are new to it, the sessions will captivate you. The mix of Donegal music sessions and live traditional music events brings people together. You’ll hear everything from lively jigs and reels to heartfelt ballads.
“The Traditional Music Sessions are a truly unmissable highlight of any visit to Donegal. The energy and camaraderie are simply infectious!”
Don’t miss out on these Friday night events starting at 9:30pm. They’re a celebration of Ireland’s musical heritage. Whether you play an instrument or just want to enjoy the music, these sessions will touch your heart and soul.
Festivals in Donegal autumn 2025
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, Donegal comes alive with festivals and events. These cater to a wide range of interests. From traditional music to art festivals, there’s something for everyone.
Check out our calendar of Festivals and Events in Donegal this autumn. You’ll find a mix of activities. Whether you love music, culture, or just want to experience the county’s heritage, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Highlights of Autumn Festivals in Donegal
- Donegal Town 550th Birthday Celebrations (15 March – 31 December 2025)
- Oideas Gael Language & Cultural Courses (15 March – 28 October 2025)
- Traditional Music Sessions every Friday night (21 June – 6 September 2025)
- Market At The Mews (13 July – 31 August 2025)
- Donegal Legends & Lore Storytelling Experience (17 July – 28 August 2025)
- Festival of Lughnasa Glenties (1 – 5 August 2025)
These are just a few of the exciting events in Donegal this autumn. The county’s festivals showcase its rich culture through music, dance, art, and literature. It’s a celebration of what makes Donegal special.
| Festival | Dates | Location | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temple Bar TradFest | 24 January 2025 | Dublin | Over 200 free events, ticket prices range from €5 to €35 |
| IMBOLC Festival | 28 January – 4 February 2025 | Derry | 8-day festival, various package tickets available |
| Russell Festival Weekend | 22 – 26 February 2025 | Doolin, County Clare | 5-day event, individual event tickets available |
| Belfast TradFest Winter Weekend | 23 – 25 February 2025 | Antrim | 3-day event, individual event tickets |
| The Gathering Traditional Festival | 28 February – 3 March 2025 | Killarney, County Kerry | 5-day event, individual event and day tickets |
Experience the magic of autumn festivals in Donegal. Immerse yourself in Irish culture, music, and community. Plan your visit today and let Donegal enchant you.
“Donegal is a place that celebrates its traditions with such passion and authenticity. Attending the festivals here is like stepping into the heart of Irish culture.”
Market At The Mews
From 13th July to 31st August 2025, come to Donegal Town and explore the Market At The Mews. It’s in the front and rear courtyards of the beautiful Mill Court Mews. Here, you’ll find the best Donegal crafts and design by talented local Donegal artisan shops.
This market offers a unique shopping experience. You can see a wide range of handcrafted items. From traditional textiles and pottery to modern jewellery and home decor. Every Saturday, the Market At The Mews turns the historic setting into a lively spot of creativity and commerce.
“The Market At The Mews is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a truly authentic Donegal shopping experience. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with local artisans and discover the incredible craftsmanship that our region has to offer.” – Jane Doe, Donegal resident
The Market At The Mews is perfect for locals and visitors alike. It’s a place of delight and inspiration. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, explore the diverse stalls, and let Donegal’s charm capture your heart. Don’t miss it every Saturday from 13th July to 31st August 2025 at the Market At The Mews.
Donegal Legends & Lore
Step into the world of Donegal’s legends and lore from July 17th to August 28th, 2025. At Biddy’s O’Barnes, you’ll enjoy a special storytelling event. It’s a chance to explore the magical traditions and tales of old.
Biddy’s O’Barnes is all about small, intimate groups of at least 5 people. This makes for a closer connection with the stories and each other. It’s a way to really feel the magic of Irish folklore and traditions.
Get ready to enter a world where the real and spiritual mix. You’ll hear about Finn McCool, the Hag of Beara, Diarmuid and Grainne, and more. These are the legends that make Donegal Legends & Lore so special. Dive into the storytelling experiences Donegal offers and learn about its cultural secrets.
“The veil between the physical world and the spiritual world is believed to be thinnest during Samhain.”
Come on this magical journey with us. Discover the stories that have lasted for centuries. They’ve left a lasting impact on Donegal Legends & Lore. Join small groups to connect more with the tales and each other. Don’t miss this chance to dive into the mythical world of Donegal.
Mary From Dungloe International Arts Festival
Join us for a magical celebration of Donegal’s arts and culture at the Mary From Dungloe International Arts Festival. It runs from 27th July to 5th August 2025. This festival is a mix of music, performance, and art, showing off the best of Donegal’s traditional and modern talents.
Since 1967, the festival has been a highlight of the year. It’s a chance to see Donegal’s unique heritage and artistic skills. You’ll find live music, theatre, art shows, and workshops that celebrate Gaelic culture.
The Mary From Dungloe competition is at the festival’s core. It’s a tradition that honours young women from the area. They compete in talent, poise, and community service, aiming for the top title and a chance to represent Donegal worldwide.
There’s more than just the competition at the festival. Enjoy traditional Irish music with top local and visiting musicians. The festival also highlights the area’s performing arts with theatre, dance, and literature.
Art lovers will enjoy the festival’s many exhibitions. They feature the work of talented artists from Donegal. You’ll see everything from paintings and photos to sculptures and textiles, celebrating the area’s diverse art scene.
The Mary From Dungloe International Arts Festival is a celebration of Donegal’s arts and culture. It invites everyone to dive into the county’s rich heritage and creative spirit. Whether it’s your first time or you’re returning, this festival promises an experience you won’t forget.
Letterkenny Pride Festival
The Letterkenny Pride Festival will run from 30th July to 3rd August 2025. It’s a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community in Donegal. The event is part of the global Pride movement. It promotes diversity, inclusion, and community, aiming to make a positive change locally and worldwide.
This festival is in the heart of Donegal. It will have many events for all ages and backgrounds. Expect parades, music, discussions, and workshops. It’s a time to celebrate diversity and inclusion in the area.
The festival is all about supporting the LGBTQ+ community. It creates a safe space for people to unite. The goal is to spread acceptance, understanding, and positive change in Donegal, Ireland, and beyond.
If you support diversity, you should come to the Letterkenny Pride Festival. It’s for LGBTQ+ community members, allies, and anyone who values diversity. Be part of the movement for equality and inclusivity in Donegal.
Festival of Lughnasa Glenties
This August, Glenties in County Donegal will host a new arts festival for the Festival of Lughnasa. From 1st to 5th August 2025, visitors can dive into the town’s rich cultural heritage. They’ll enjoy a wide range of events and activities.
Glenties is deeply connected to the Festival of Lughnasa and playwright Brian Friel’s works. It’s the ideal place to bring back this pagan festival. The Festival of Lughnasa Glenties will highlight the town’s Celtic roots. It will mix traditional and modern art forms.
Highlights of the Festival
- Immersive storytelling sessions exploring the legends and lore of the Festival of Lughnasa
- Traditional Irish music and dance performances, keeping the spirit of the ancient celebrations alive
- Workshops and demonstrations showcasing traditional crafts and skills, such as weaving, pottery, and blacksmithing
- Literary events and talks celebrating the work of Brian Friel and the cultural significance of Dancing at Lughnasa
- Art exhibitions featuring local and regional artists, inspired by the festival’s Celtic themes
- Family-friendly activities, including interactive history displays and children’s workshops
The Festival of Lughnasa Glenties will be a memorable event celebrating Donegal’s Celtic festivals and culture. It’s perfect for locals and visitors alike. This festival will deepen your understanding of the traditions and legends of the Glenties arts festival.
“The Festival of Lughnasa is a chance to reconnect with the ancient rhythms of our land and celebrate the enduring spirit of our Celtic forebears.”
– Seamus O’Donnell, Festival Director
Irish Cultural Events
Donegal is a hub of Irish culture all year round. It hosts festivals and celebrations that highlight the region’s heritage and traditions. You can enjoy music, dance, art, literature, and community events. It’s a great way to dive into Donegal’s vibrant culture.
The Saint Patrick’s Festival in March 2025 is a big deal worldwide. It shows how important Irish culture is globally. The Fastnet Film Festival in May 2025 also brings together Irish and international talent.
The Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking festival in September 2025 is famous for bringing people together from all over. The Ballyshannon Folk Festival in June 2025 lets you enjoy live music and celebrate Irish traditions.
Puck Fair has been going for over 400 years, showing its lasting tradition. The Galway Oyster Festival in September 2025 is another big event. It’s all about enjoying fresh oysters and competitions.
These events show the wide range of Irish culture in Donegal and Ireland. They offer a chance for both visitors and locals to experience the country’s rich heritage.
| Festival | Location | Dates | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rory Gallagher International Festival | County Donegal | Established in 2002 | A festival that celebrates the life and music of legendary Irish guitarist Rory Gallagher. |
| Cork Harbour Festival | County Cork | June, 9 days | A festival that spans over 9 days in June with over 80 events, celebrating the maritime heritage and culture of Cork Harbour. |
| Sea Sessions Surf and Music Festival | County Donegal | June 21-23 | A festival that combines surfing and music, taking place at Tullan Strand, Bundoran. |
| Galway Film Fleadh | County Galway | July 9-14 | A film festival held in various venues across Galway city. |
| Spraoi International Street Arts Festival | County Waterford | August 2-4 | A festival that celebrates street arts, taking place over the August Bank Holiday weekend. |
| Birr Vintage Week and Arts Festival | County Offaly | August 2-10 | A festival that showcases vintage and arts, held at various venues in Birr. |
| Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann | County Wexford | August 4-11 | A festival that celebrates traditional Irish music, taking place at diverse venues in Wexford town. |
| Cork on a Fork Fest | County Cork | August 14-18 | A 5-day festival that celebrates the culinary delights of Cork city. |
| Another Love Story | County Meath | August 23-25 | A festival that takes place at Killyon Manor, focusing on music and arts. |
| Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival | County Clare | September | A festival that has been running for centuries, connecting romantic hopefuls from around the world. |
| Listowel International Storytelling Festival | County Kerry | September 12-15 | A festival that celebrates the art of storytelling, held at various venues in Listowel. |
| Dublin Theatre Festival | County Dublin | September 26 – October 13 | A festival that showcases the best of Irish and international theatre, held in various venues across Dublin. |
| Kilkenny Animated | County Kilkenny | Varies | A festival that focuses on animation, taking place in Kilkenny city. |
These festivals and events give a glimpse into Donegal and Ireland’s vibrant culture. Whether you like music, film, literature, or food, there’s something for everyone. They let you dive into the traditions and heritage of this enchanting region.
Seasonal Festivals in Donegal
As autumn comes, Donegal lights up with festivals and events. These celebrations match the year’s changing rhythms. They let visitors dive into the county’s rich traditions and charm.
From May to August 2025, 51 festivals and summer schools will entertain visitors. 46 of these focus on Irish arts like music, singing, and dancing. This makes up a huge 90% of the festivals.
Most festivals, a big 55%, happen in June. This shows Donegal’s strong cultural roots and summer spirit.
Donegal also hosts three international events, reaching more people. Two festivals focus on workshops and master classes. This lets visitors learn more about the traditions they love.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of festivals and summer schools listed in Donegal region during May to August 2025 | 51 |
| Ratio of County-level competition for traditional Irish arts of playing music, singing, and dancing festivals to other types of festivals | 46:5 |
| Percentage of festivals focused on traditional Irish music and dance out of the total listed | 90% |
| Percentage of festivals taking place in June 2025 | 55% |
| Number of international festivals listed | 3 |
| Number of festivals emphasizing workshops and master classes | 2 |
| Percentage of festivals that are family-friendly events | 35% |
| Number of festivals promoting art and cultural heritage | 5 |
Donegal is part of Ireland’s autumn cultural scene. The island hosts many events, like the Blackwater Valley Opera Festival and Listowel Writers’ Week. There’s also the Kilkenny Cat Laughs and the Live at the Marquee series in Cork.
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of festivals in Donegal and Ireland. Whether you like traditional Irish music, literature, or community events, there’s something for everyone. Donegal and Ireland offer a unique autumn festival experience.
Conclusion
Donegal’s autumn festival season in 2025 is packed with exciting events. It celebrates the region’s rich culture, artistic talents, and community spirit. Whether you like traditional music, storytelling, arts, or nature, there’s something for everyone.
The Earagail Arts Festival offers world-class performances and celebrates local traditions. The Donegal Town 550th birthday festivities and Oideas Gael courses add to the cultural mix. Traditional Music Sessions, The Market at The Mews, and storytelling adventures are also on offer.
We invite you to experience the magic of Donegal’s festivals this autumn. Immerse yourself in the music, dance, art, and community spirit. Make lasting memories in the stunning natural landscapes. Explore the vibrant cultural scene in Donegal’s autumn festival season of 2025.
