Exciting Festivals in Donegal Summer 2024

Did you know Donegal has nearly two dozen exciting festivals in the summer of 2024?

The Earagail Arts Festival offers days of music, theatre, and more. The Burtonport Summer Festival celebrates for 9 days. Donegal’s summer is full of cultural and social events1.

Whether you like the MacGill Summer School or the Mary From Dungloe International Arts Festival, there’s something for everyone1.

In Donegal, there are festivals for all tastes. You can enjoy the Letterkenny Pride Festival or the Festival of Lughnasa in Glenties. The county’s parties are endless1.

Donegal’s 2024 events offer a mix of fun. The Ballyshannon Folk Festival and Inishowen Quadrathon guarantee an exciting summer. Enjoy Donegal’s culture and make great memories.

Key Takeaways

  • Donegal offers nearly two dozen vibrant festivals through the summer of 2024.
  • Earagail Arts Festival spans 16 days featuring a wide range of art forms1.
  • The MacGill Summer School and Mary From Dungloe International Arts Festival are among the highlights1.
  • Letterkenny Pride Festival and Festival of Lughnasa Glenties provide diverse cultural experiences1.
  • Events like the Ballyshannon Folk and Traditional Music Festival and Inishowen Quadrathon ensure a mix of music and adventure1.

Donegal Town 550th Anniversary

Donegal Town is getting ready for a big party in the summer of 2024. They will mark their 550th year since starting. The town’s history goes right back to 1474. That’s when Lady Nuala O’Donnell set up a Franciscan Abbey and Red Hugh O’Donnell the First started Donegal Castle.

Donegal Town 550th Anniversary

Historical Significance

The 550th anniversary of Donegal Town is a chance to explore its past. The building of Donegal Castle by Red Hugh O’Donnell is a key part of the town’s story. This draws in both locals and visitors to learn about the castle.

Lady Nuala O’Donnell’s abbey highlights the town’s early educational and religious efforts. These efforts are what make Donegal Town what it is today.

Event Highlights

Donegal’s 550th celebrations in 2024 are packed with fun activities. There will be learning events, cultural displays, and historic re-enactments. The Festival of Light from March to December 2024 will be especially exciting2.

The Creative Ireland programme, with help from the Department of Tourism, backs these events2. They follow the Strategic Plan for Donegal, covering 2023 to 2027.

Also, the Donegal Culture & Creativity Project Awards Scheme 2024 has given €2,000 to 25 projects. This was out of 75 applications for the awards2.

Oideas Gael Language & Cultural Courses

Oideas Gael is getting ready to celebrate four decades in 2024. This marks a big achievement for the promotion of the Irish language and Gaeltacht culture. People from all over the world, such as Americans and Australians, come to join in. They take part in courses that are full of the Irish language and culture.

Course Details

In the beautiful Gleann Cholm Cille, Oideas Gael welcomes all to learn Irish. There are classes for every level. Plus, you can join in on set dancing and learn traditional Irish music. For those interested, there are courses about local history and important sites, running every August.

Oideas Gael Language & Cultural Courses

The day starts with Irish classes and ends with fun workshops. You can learn to play the bodhrán or even try your hand at Italian cooking. This mix of activities makes learning about the Gaeltacht culture and its language enjoyable3.

Celebrating 40 Years

In 2024, a program of special events will run from March 15 to October 28 to celebrate Oideas Gael’s 40 years. There will be concerts, book launches, and talks. These events are a great chance to meet locals and learn more about the region’s heritage4. The Fr. James MacDyer Archaeology School at Oideas Gael plays a big part in its educational success.

Every year, about 120 people come to learn and celebrate in Gleann Cholm Cille. Some are Irish, and others come from around the globe. This mix creates a special bond among those who love Irish culture. The school’s courses and programs are known for being top-notch3.

Oideas Gael is dedicated to providing great courses and cultural experiences. Look forward to a memorable time amidst the region’s wild and beautiful landscapes. The upcoming events promise something unforgettable for everyone3.

Donegal Garden Trail 2024

Start an amazing adventure on the Donegal Garden Trail. You’ll see the county’s many plants and have fun outside in Donegal. This lovely path is open all year and has 17 special places to visit. Each place shows a different part of Donegal’s garden story5.

From neat gardens to wilder areas, every site is unique. You’ll be amazed by Donegal’s plant life.

Donegal Garden Trail

Each garden on the trail has its own guide. These guides tell you when to visit and other helpful info6. They’re great for anyone planning a visit. Whether you love gardening or just like to explore, the Donegal Garden Trail is perfect for you. It’s a top spot for seeing beautiful Irish gardens and enjoying the outdoors in Donegal.

Sea Sessions Surf & Music Festival

The Sea Sessions Surf & Music Festival is a must-see in Donegal’s summer. It happens in the scenic Bundoran from June 21st to 23rd, 2024789. This festival combines great music, surfing, and beach sports for an unforgettable time.

Music Acts

Over 45 amazing music acts will perform at Sea Sessions 20247. Headliners include blk., Cian Ducrot, and Johnny Marr. This diverse selection ensures there’s something for everyone9. Acts like Dermot Kennedy and Kasabian have graced the festival in the past, making it stand out among Donegal’s music events8.

Beach Sports and Activities

But Sea Sessions is not just about music. It offers fun beach sports and activities too. There’s the big Surf Competition, skateboarding, BMX, and even yoga sessions9. The beautiful beaches of Bundoran add to the festival’s cool vibe7.

Bundoran surf festival

Festival Experience

Sea Sessions 2024 will be exciting and enriching. It features great music and many fun activities8. Day tickets start at €69.95 and Full Weekend tickets at €149.95. There’s also an early bird weekend deal for €139.95, and you can upgrade to Campervan or VIP9. This three-day event has sold out every year since it began in 2008. The director believes 2024 will be the best one yet7.

Donegal International Rally

The Donegal International Rally is a top event in County Donegal. It runs from the 21st to the 23rd of June, 202410. This year, there are six stages on Friday, eight on Saturday, and six more on Sunday11. It’s more than just a motorsport event. It also draws in adventure tourism fans from near and far10.

It’s set to be a big show with a full entry of competitors11 and around 100,000 fans12. The start and end are in Letterkenny, adding to the lively feel of the town11. Here, you can see top drivers show off their talent amidst the excitement.

This year, Callum Devine aims to win in his VW Polo again11. Second in line is Keith Cronin, leading the Tarmac standings, and having won two Irish rounds11. The rally is known for being tough and thrilling for both drivers and fans.

The rally is part of Donegal’s adventure sports push, happening with events like the Sea Sessions10. Beyond the excitement of the rally, visitors can explore Donegal’s wild beauty.

The winners will be celebrated at Mount Errigal Hotel in Letterkenny by 6.35 pm on Sunday11. It marks a high point in Donegal’s adventure tourism scene. For motorsport fans, it’s a must-see in Ireland’s event calendar.

Tír Chonaill Stone Festival

The Tír Chonaill Stone Festival started in 2014. It celebrates traditional crafts in Donegal. Nearly 30 people join, including trainers, volunteers, and students, each year13. The goal is to finish a 40-meter wall in a day. This shows off the ancient skill of stonewalling13.

Tír Chonaill Stone Festival

Workshops

This fest takes a hands-on approach to stone carving and wall building. Essential for Ireland’s heritage, workshops teach stone carving, walling, and sketching. They are for everyone, from beginners to experts13. These activities immerse people in Donegal’s traditional crafts while highlighting its local heritage.

Event Location

In the historic town of Ballyshannon, the festival is lively. The local community and visitors meet and learn14. The local ETB and council support it, showing its key role in cultural preservation and education13. Next year’s event is on the 22nd and 23rd of June. It’s a great chance to see Donegal’s famous crafts14.

Event Dates
Tír Chonaill Stone Festival 2024 22nd – 23rd June 2024
Donegal International Rally 21st – 23rd June 2024
Donegal Town Summer Festival 28th – 30th June 2024
PRIDE PARADE AND QUEER ARTS FESTIVAL 4th – 7th July 2024
Letterkenny Blues and Roots Festival 4th – 7th July 2024
Lennon Festival Ramelton 4th – 15th July 2024
Bundoran Pride 6th July 2024
Ceol na Coille Summer School & Trad Fest 8th – 12th July 2024
Burtonport Summer Festival 19th – 27th July 2024
Letterkenny Pride Festival 30th July – 3rd August 2024
47th Ballyshannon Folk and Traditional Music Festival 1st – 4th August 2024
Inishowen Quadrathon 2024 15th – 18th August 2024
Donegal Dragons International Regatta 16th – 17th August 2024

North West Dive Rally

The North West Dive Rally is a top event for diving fans keen to see Donegal’s sea life. It’s at Teelin Pier in Co Donegal, on June 22nd to 23rd, 2024. Divers and snorkelers will see stunning places around Sliabh Liag and Malin Beg15. The weather in Donegal is a cool 16°C. It’s a great chance to dive into the clear waters and find the treasures below the surface. This makes scuba diving in Ireland a favourite for many who love the ocean16.

The rally’s participants can see the 2,500 km Wild Atlantic Way. It runs along Ireland’s western coast. From Malin Head in Co. Donegal, you can travel the entire route16. This event isn’t just about diving. It’s part of Donegal’s busy summer scene. The Donegal International Rally and the Sea Sessions Surf & Music Festival will also take place from 21st to 23rd June 202415.

North West Dive Rally

The rally is hosted by the Donegal Bay Sub Aqua Club Search & Recovery. It’ll be a great time for both new and experienced divers. The event will introduce you to Donegal’s history and beautiful adventures. It gives you many reasons to explore this stunning part of Ireland16. If you love scuba diving or want to make your summer more fun, the North West Dive Rally is a must-do.

Donegal Town Summer Festival 2024

Step into the magic of Donegal Town this summer with the Donegal Town Summer Festival 2024 from the 28th to the 30th of June17. This amazing event runs over a weekend, starting on Friday and ending on Sunday. It takes place in the beautiful Pier area. People from near and far come to enjoy the summer vibes17.

Event Dates

The festival runs from Friday, June 28th to Sunday, June 30th. It’s the perfect time for fun with your loved ones17. The weather is set to be nice, with temperatures around 16°C. This makes it a great spot for an outdoor fest17.

Donegal Town Summer Festival

Live Performances

Live music is a big draw at the Donegal Town Summer Festival17. Acts start at 2 PM and go on till late. Around 9:30 PM, the headline artists start performing17. This year, enjoy music from local stars and big names like Bluestack Jam Club, Malibu Cruz, and Paul Ward18. The festival is over the weekend, and it’s known as a top pick for family fun in Donegal17.

Family Activities

The fest is not just music; it’s a full-on family blast. It begins with a film on Friday on the Diamond18. Saturday is all fun with kids’ stuff by Fruity & Dishy and Let’s Play Donegal18. On Sunday, there are tractor races and family games to end things on a high18. This shows why it’s a top choice for families in Donegal.

Letterkenny Blues and Roots Festival

The Letterkenny Blues and Roots Festival is a top event for those who love cultural festivals in Ireland. It kicks off on 4th July and goes on until the 7th. This festival offers an unforgettable journey into the worlds of blues and roots music19. Over 60 gigs will be held, featuring 32 awesome bands and artists. This really captures the essence of music events in Donegal19. For those attending, there are many local places to stay. These include The Mount Errigal Hotel and Dillons Hotel, making the festival easy to enjoy20.

Letterkenny Blues and Roots Festival

Featured Artists

This year, the festival is bringing a wide range of artists to its stage. From well-known acts to up-and-coming stars, there’s something for everyone. This diverse mix will be heard at various bars and venues in Letterkenny20. It shows why this festival is well thought of in Donegal’s music scene.

Festival Venues

There will be performances at 14 different spots around Letterkenny. These range from cosy bars to large stages. Each place adds its own unique feel to the festival. By focusing on great sound and a fun atmosphere, these locations make the festival even better19. Plus, there are lots of other things to do nearby, like visiting cinemas and museums. So, it’s not just about the music; it’s a whole experience for anyone who loves cultural events in Ireland20.

Féile Ghabhla on Gola Island

The Gola Island festival, or Féile Ghabhla, perfectly mixes culture, history, and community. It runs from the 29th to 30th of June. This festival lets you dive into the lively world of Gola Island.

Traditional Island Festival

Féile Ghabhla showcases the best of Irish island culture. It features art workshops, yoga, walks, and genealogy. These activities make the festival on Gola Island a truly immersive experience21.

Key parts are events like the island mass in the Féile style. The festival’s highlight, the Boat Procession, is a dazzling sight. It celebrates Gola Island’s culture in a way you won’t forget22.

Féile Ghabhla festival on Gola Island

Event Schedule

The festival’s schedule is full of fun for all ages. Starting on the 29th, there are art workshops to join in. They let you discover the island’s beauty through art21. Morning yoga is great for feeling at peace in the island’s calm atmosphere.

Guided walks offer a look into history and the island’s beauty. Genealogy events help you explore your family tree. This mix of heritage and nature makes Féile Ghabhla truly special22.

Date Activity Details
29th June Art Workshops Create and explore artistic expressions
30th June Yoga Sessions Rejuvenate with morning yoga
29th-30th June Guided Walks Discover the history and natural beauty of Gola Island
29th-30th June Genealogy Exhibitions Trace your ancestral roots
30th June Boat Procession Grand finale that honours island tradition

Visiting Féile Ghabhla means you get to see an amazing festival on Gola Island. It’s also a special event that honours the island’s deep history and connects us to its people.

Sult Féile 2024

The Gaeltacht of Gaoth Dobhair is getting ready for Sult Féile 2024. It’s one of Donegal’s top summer events. This music festival will have a lot of great music and cultural fun. It takes place on the 12th and 13th of July. The festival mixes modern music with Gaelic culture4.

Main Performers

Sult Féile 2024 has a great lineup for everyone’s taste in music. It will have famous bands like Bell X1, Alabama 3, and the Red Hot Chili Pipers. These acts will make the festival lively19. With such variety, the festival shows its dedication to provide top entertainment in Donegal. It makes the region’s culture stand out4.

Festival Attractions

Besides music, Sult Féile will have lots of things to see and do. You can enjoy Gaelic arts, crafts, and food. It makes the event extra special. The festival not only offers great music. It also promotes local skills and customs. This makes it a highlight of Donegal’s summer4.

Here’s a quick look at what to expect from the festival and other events in Donegal:

Event Name Dates Location
Sea Sessions Surf & Music Festival 2024 21st – 23rd June Bundoran
Donegal Town Summer Festival 2024 28th – 30th June Donegal Town Pier
Letterkenny Blues and Roots Festival 4th – 7th July Letterkenny
Sult Féile 2024 12th – 13th July Gaoth Dobhair
Mary From Dungloe International Arts Festival 27th July – 8th August Various locations in Dungloe

Festivals in Donegal Summer 2024

Donegal shines in summer with its lively festivals. You can dive into the area’s deep culture and stunning nature. There are events for all, from historical celebrations to music and sports.

Why Visit Donegal

Donegal’s 2024 tourism is packed with historical sites and culture. Donegal Town marks its 550th Birthday from 15th March to 31st December15. It’s a chance to see its long history.

Also celebrating is Oideas Gael, with 40 years from 15th March to 28th October. It’s perfect for learning and truly experiencing the culture15. The area has plenty of food and drink fetes, like the Sea Sessions Surf & Music Fest from 21st to 23rd June in Bundoran, making it a fun visit15.

The Tír Chonaill Stone Festival on 22nd and 23rd June is about ancient craft15. The North West Dive Rally by Donegal Bay Sub Aqua Club on the same dates is great for adventurers15. And for music lovers, the PHILOMENA BEGLEY IN CONCERT on 23rd June is a must-see15.

Looking for a mix of history, thrills, or tunes? Donegal’s got it all in its summer festivals.

Tourism Information

Planning your visit to Donegal is simple. Check out the many festivals showing Donegal’s spirit. You can find plenty of info online. There’s a range of places to stay in Donegal Town, like Mill Park Hotel and Lough Eske Castle Hotel. They’re ready to host everyone for the Donegal Town Summer Festival from 28th to 30th June23.

Don’t miss attractions like Donegal Castle and the Craft Village. They add to your experience with local stories and traditions23.

Get detailed festival insights from here. It helps make every visit memorable. For more of Donegal, join festivals like Burtonport Summer Fest from 19th to 27th July and the Ballyshannon Music Fest from 1st to 4th August. They’re sure to enrich your trip1.

For more on the events, check local guides like the Donegal Town Summer Festival guide. It’s full of fun things to do, from alpaca walks to castle tours23.

Conclusion

Looking forward to summer 2024 in Donegal, we see a lot of fun coming up. The county will host many festivals for everyone. From July 13th to 28th, the Earagail Arts Festival will amaze us. It will show off Catalan circus and the blues from Bamako. Also, there will be traditional music and dance on islands like Tory and Arranmore24.

The excitement doesn’t stop there. The Donegal Chamber Music Festival will run too. It will have concerts in special places like Glenveagh Castle. This festival will be from the 14th to 16th October. It will feature music by John McLachlan, offering both classical and modern songs25. Another key event is the Mary From Dungloe International Festival in Dungloe. It brings in tens of thousands from all over the world26. You can expect lots of cultural sharing and amazing performances here.

These festivals are not just for tourists. They are also a chance for the people of Donegal to celebrate. You might love the music, food, art, or just the friendly festival vibe. The summer events in Donegal offer unforgettable times for all. This summer, let’s dive into Donegal’s rich culture. It will bring people together and leave us with great memories.

FAQ

What festivals are happening in Donegal during the summer of 2024?

Visitors to Donegal will find lots of festivals celebrating various things. These include the Donegal Town 550th Anniversary, Sea Sessions Surf & Music Festival, and the Donegal Garden Trail. They cover heritage, music, outdoor fun, and cultural displays.

What is the significance of Donegal Town’s 550th Anniversary?

The 550th Anniversary marks the 1474 founding of Donegal Town. It was started by Lady Nuala O’Donnell and Red Hugh O’Donnell the First. Festivities include re-enactments and cultural events showing off the town’s history.

What courses will be offered by Oideas Gael to celebrate their 40th anniversary?

Oideas Gael is offering Irish language courses for all levels. They also have cultural holidays with traditional music and dance. There are visits to important heritage sites for in-depth learning.

What can visitors expect from the Donegal Garden Trail?

The Donegal Garden Trail has 17 unique gardens to visit. This allows visitors to see different plants, from neat gardens to wild spaces. It showcases Donegal’s diverse botanical beauty.

When is the Sea Sessions Surf & Music Festival taking place and what does it offer?

The Sea Sessions Surf & Music Festival runs from 21st to 23rd June in Bundoran. It mixes live music with surfing, beach sports, and yoga. Expect performances from Irish and international artists.

What are the dates for the Donegal International Rally, and what makes it special?

The Donegal International Rally is from 21st to 23rd June. It’s famous for its exciting car races that draw top drivers internationally. It’s a must-see for motor sports fans.

What types of workshops are available at the Tír Chonaill Stone Festival?

The Tír Chonaill Stone Festival offers stone carving and walling workshops. It also includes Plein Air sketching. These are aimed at keeping traditional crafts alive.

What activities are part of the North West Dive Rally?

The North West Dive Rally welcomes divers and snorkelers. It explores sites like Teelin Pier, Sliabh Liag, and Malin Beg. This adds marine fun to Donegal’s summertime events.

What family activities will be available at the Donegal Town Summer Festival 2024?

The Donegal Town Summer Festival is packed with activities for families. It includes live shows, art displays, and fun for all ages. You’ll find this from 28th to 30th June at the Pier area.

Which artists will perform at the Letterkenny Blues and Roots Festival?

The Letterkenny Blues and Roots Festival has over 60 gigs by 32 bands and artists. It’s on from 4th to 7th July across 14 venues. There’s a mix of blues and roots music to enjoy.

What makes Féile Ghabhla on Gola Island a unique festival?

Féile Ghabhla on Gola Island celebrates its island culture. It runs from 29th to 30th June and offers art workshops, yoga, walks, and genealogy displays. The festival has a final Boat Procession.

Who are the main performers at Sult Féile 2024?

Sult Féile 2024 features acts like Bell X1, Alabama 3, and the Red Hot Chili Pipers. These performances are in Gaoth Dobhair on 12th and 13th July. It mixes contemporary music with beautiful surroundings.

Why should tourists consider visiting Donegal in the summer of 2024?

Donegal’s summer festivals are a great way to experience its culture and nature. You’ll find events for everyone, from music to adventure sports. It makes Donegal a lively place for a visit.

Where can I find more information on Donegal’s summer festivals and tourism?

For more details on Donegal’s festivals and visiting, check with Donegal County Council and local tourism websites.

References:

  1. Festivals & Events
  2. Donegal County Council
  3. What others have said
  4. Explore Donegal’s Vibrant Traditional Festivals | Ireland & UK Healing Spirit Festival
  5. Unforgettable Festival Experiences Donegal Guide | Ireland & UK Healing Spirit Festival
  6. 15 Great Festivals to Discover Across Ireland
  7. Sea Sessions 2024 line-up announced as tickets set to go on sale this week
  8. Sea Sessions announce full lineup!  – Discover Bundoran, County Donegal
  9. Sea Sessions announces new wave of acts for 2024 festival
  10. Sport
  11. Donegal Rally set to bring big interest this weekend
  12. Max McRae to tackle UK and Irish events this summer – DirtFish
  13. How a festival in Donegal is bringing back the ancient craft of wall building
  14. Community
  15. Festivals & Events
  16. Home
  17. Donegal Town Summer Festival 2024
  18. Donegal Town Summer Festival 2023 – Discover Bundoran, County Donegal
  19. Music
  20. Letterkenny Blues and Roots Festival 2024. One of Irelands best blues festivals
  21. Home – Earagail Arts Festival | 13th – 28th July 2024
  22. Visit West Donegal and the offshore islands with Earagail Arts Festival – Earagail Arts Festival | 13th – 28th July 2024
  23. Donegal Town Summer Festival 2024 – Exciting Attractions and Events Await
  24. Earagail Arts Festival 2024 – Official Launch – Earagail Arts Festival | 13th – 28th July 2024
  25. 3rd DONEGAL CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL – An Grianan Theatre – Letterkenny, Donegal. Arts Music Comedy Venue
  26. Mary from Dungloe (festival)

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