County Clare Events Calendar 2013
See also Library Events and
Art Exhibitions and Clare
Focus - What's On Today (external link)
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- 26th October 2013
Food Harvest Festival, Scariff
Delicious food and wine tastings, food and wine competitions, demonstrations, fungi
foraging and wild harvest meal with pop up bistro. 1pm-8pm. Contact Lisa Joyce, 00353 61 921 536 www.eastclarecoop.com - 25th - 28th October 2013
Willie Keane Memorial, Doonbeg
Held in the village of Doonbeg, this festival celebrates the life of Willie Keane, legendary sean nós dancer, with traditional music, song and dance. Contact Margaret Dillon 00353 87 9985427 www.williekeanememorialweekend.com - 25th - 27th October 2013
Traditional Irish Music Festival Celebrating the Life & Music of Micilin Conlon
Lisdoonvarna
A weekend of great traditional Irish music sessions day and evening. The festival celebrates the life and music of the late Micilin Conlon who played the North Clare style of music. All welcome. Contact Peter Curtin 00353 87 8300069 roadsidetavern@gmail.com & www.roadsidetavern.ie - 25th - 27th October 2013
Six Nations over 40’s Tournament, Scariff
A Rugby tournament in Scariff. Check out our web page and information on the official Gathering website www.thegatheringireland.com for further details. Contact Brendan Magill, 00353 87 9165937 golfbrendan@gmail.com & www.scariffrugby.ie - 21st - 27th October 2013
Ennis Fashion Week, Ennis
Why not visit the wonderful town of Ennis and enjoy shopping in the many family owned and run boutiques. Throughout the week there will be fashion shows, make-up demonstrations, special offers in shops, hotels and restaurants. Contact County Boutique 00353 65 6821947 or 00353 87 2353714 www.visitennis.ie - 12th - 13th October 2013
Boru3peaks, Killaloe
A two day community fundraising event taking place in Killaloe Ballina. Run, walk or crawl 1, 2 or all 3 peaks – Moylussa, Tountinna and Keeper Hill. Perpetual trophy presented to the King and Queen of all 3 peaks. Contact Fiona Ward / Orla Foley boru3peaks@gmail.com & www.boru3peaks.com & www.facebook.com/boru.peaks - 10th October 2013
Traditional Horse Fair, Kilrush
Contact Kilrush Town Council 00353 65 9051047 www.kilrush.ie - 4th - 6th October 2013
Queen of Burren Festival Weekend, Lisdoonvarna
Contact Robert Hurley 00353 65 7074696 hydrohotel@eircom.net - 4th - 6th October 2013
East Clare Walking Festival
Experience & Marvel at the Wild Beauty of East Clare in this 2 Day Event. 3 Graded/Guided Walks & Boat Trip/Guided Walk on Holy Island daily. Family Walks in Whitegate & many East Clare Villages on the Sunday. Contact Teresa Browne 00353 87 6867548 www.eastclarewalkingfestival.com
- 29th September 2013
Blacksmithing, Clarecastle
We show how a small forge is built and how to heat and shape metal and lots more to see
and do. Contact Eddie Connors 00353 65 6841552 or 00353 87 4000393
info@imecofarm.com & www.imecofarm.com - 29th September 2013
Traditional Harvest Day at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Bunratty
See old style threshing demonstrations, vintage machinery display, sheaf throwing competitions, traditional Irish music and dancing and much more! Contact Reservations 00353 61 360788 reservations@shannonheritage.com & www.shannonheritage.com/SpecialEvents - 27th - 29th September 2013
The Burren Peaks Walking Festival, Ballyvaughan
Our festival weekend promises you a real taste of the Burren and offers guided hill and
lowland walks varying in distance and grade catering for all walkers. Contact Mary O’Brien 00353 87 7779714 info@ballyvaughanfanorewalkingclub.com & www.burrenpeakswalkingfestival.com - 27th - 29th September 2013
Che Do Bheatha Latin American Festival, Kilkee
Cuban music & dance festival. Contact Cillian Murphy 00353 86 2780161 www.kilkeefestivals.com - September 27th - 29th 2013
Mountshannon Traditional Music Festival, Mountshannon
Enjoy a weekend of traditional Irish Music. Contact Cliodhna Donnellan cliopatricia@gmail.com & www.mountshannontradfestival.ie - 22nd September 2013
Guinness Book of Records for Largest Outdoor Traditional Music Event, Kilfenora
An attempt to achieve the largest outdoor Traditional Music Event in Kilfenora, County
Clare. Contact Frances Connole 00353 65 7088030 info@theburrencentre.ie - 20th - 22nd September 2013
Ennis Fringe Festival, Ennis
The 3rd Ennis Fringe Festival promotes the work of Clare based artists, musicians, and performers through the use of alternative spaces. Contact Dave O’Rourke 00353 87 6982120 ennisfringefestival@yahoo.com - 20th - 22nd September 2013
Seafood in September, Carrigaholt
A showcase of all that Carrigaholt and Loop Head has on offer for lovers of the outdoors and great seafood. Artisan food and craft fair, guided walks, dolphin watch trips, cooking demos, baking competitions, seafood buffets, sea angling and of course lots and lots of local shellfish and seafood. Contact The Long Dock 00353 65 9058106 tony@thelongdock.com & www.loophead.ie - 20th September 2013
Clare Culture Night
A national event in which cultural providers throughout the county stay open late and provide free entertainment and activities for members of the public. 00353 65 6899091 clareculturenight@gmail.com & www.culturenight.ie - 15th - 30th September 2013
Lahinch Retro Jamboree, Lahinch
A gathering of musicians and bands from all over. Contact Paul O’Brien 00353 86 2320339 paulewazi@hotmail.com - 15th September 2013
Wood Carving Demo, Clarecastle
A demonstration on how to carve cedarwood wind turbine propeller blades into shape, using draw knives. Contact Eddie Connors 00353 65 6841552 or 00353 87 4000393 info@imecofarm.com & www.imecofarm.com - 14th September 2013
Kilkee Strand Race, Kilkee
Horse racing on the beach. Contact Pat Russell, www.loophead.ie - 13th - 15th September 2013
Clare Shout Festival, Kilkishen
A wide range of activities including traditional music & singing, choir singing, Callaun Lake activity day, sailing, set dancing, dog show, hurling tournament, road bowling, tag rugby, country market, 10k charity run, vintage parade & display, photo competition, children’s treasure hunt, junior art workshop, family fun day, adult & junior Clare Shout competitions, street parade & more! Contact Mike Hogan 00353 86 2314685 clareshoutfestival@gmail.com & www.kilkishen.com - 11th - 15th September 2013
Rás na mBan, Clare
An Post Ras na mBan is an elite Cycling Ireland sanctioned international sports event attracting the top Irish-based female racers as well as select top internationals from Europe, Australia and North America. The event will appeal to all spectators, especially at stage starts and finishes and on certain key hill tops. Contact Valerie Considine, 00353 86 3825842 valerieconsidine@gmail.com & www.rasnamban.com - 7th September 2013
Declan Hayes Memorial 10k & Half Marathon, Doonbeg
Contact Claire Greene, 00353 86 4033648 - September 6th - 8th 2013
Tulla Traditional Music Festival, Tulla
A great weekend of music, song, dancing, workshops, recitals, concert and ceilithe. info@tullatradfestival.ie or tullacce@gmail.com & http://www.tullatradfestival.ie/ - 6th - 8th September 2013
The Crotty Galvin Traditional Music Festival, Moyasta
Festival of traditional Irish music, song and dance with classes in various instruments given by well known musicians. Contact Tim Thompson 00353 87 2830511 nellgalvinfestival@gmail.com & www.nellgalvin.com - 6th September 2013
Drumbaniff School Reunion, Crusheen
Contact James McNamara 00353 86 2648327 louisemc2009@hotmail.com - 1st September 2013
Carrigaholt Harvest Festival, Carrigaholt
Take a step back in time at our vintage agricultural show. You can experience first hand, threshing machines, scythe cutting, hay making, a vintage rally, family fun and ntertainment, farmers markets, horse and cattle classes, craft market. Contact Mark Carmody 00353 65 9058038 markcarmody@eircom.net & www.loophead.ie
- 31st August - 1st September 2013
Finale Paint Out at Burren Painting Centre, Lisdoonvarna
Painting ‘en plein air’ in the Burren for all previous tutors and students of the past 40 years of the Burren Painting Centre. Contact Chris O’Neill 00353 65 7074208 info@burrenpaintingcentre.com & www.burrenpaintingcentre.com & www.facebook.com/burren.painting.centre - 30th August - 29th September 2013
Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, Lisdoonvarna
6 weeks celebration of love, music and dancing for singles and couples. Contact Robert Hurley 00353 65 7074696 or 00353 86 8234005 hydrohotel@eircom.net & www.matchmakerireland.com - August 30th - September 1st 2013
Nell Galvin Traditional Music Festival
http://www.nellgalvin.com/ - 27th August 2013
Heritage Craft Meitheal, Scariff
Weave it, work it, gather it…be a part of a unique heritage celebration and step back in time as you enter the Meitheal mind! 00353 61 921 536 eastclarecoop@gmail.com & www.eastclarecoop.com - 26th - 29th August 2013
County Clare New York Association 125th Anniversary Gathering, Ennis.
Civic reception, Open golf days, Exhibition at Clare County Library, Heritage talks, Tour of the West Coast of Clare, Commemorative Mass and Anniversary Banquet. Contact Mary Gleeson mgleeson@oldgroundhotel.ie - 25th August 2013
Annual Aviation Show, Atlantic Airventure, Shannon.
4th annual Aviation Show. Exhibits from the Fascinating World of Flight. Aircraft Displays, Careers Info, Kids Workshops, Flight Simulator Challenges and lots more! Contact Jane Magill 00 353 61 363687 or 00353 87 2037487, info@atlanticairventure.com & www.atlanticairventure.com - 25th August 2013
Lough Derg Air Spectacular, Lough Derg
This event will take place over Lough Derg at Mountshannon at 3pm. An exciting free family fun day which also offers an excellent day out for all those interested in aviation. Contact Rose Curtis 00353 87 9240979, info@loughdergairspectacular.com & www.loughdergairspectacular.com - 24th August 2013
Kilkee Beach Tag Festival, Kilkee
4th Annual Festival. Part of ITRA Beach Tag Series. 350 Adult Taggers hitting Kilkee for fun weekend of sport & socialising! Contact Irish Tag Rugby Association, 00353 1 2020100 & info@tagrugby.ie & www.tagrugby.ie & www.facebook.com/tagrugby - August 23rd - 25th 2013
Dan Furey Weekend
Set dancing weekend with the best of ceili bands playing in St Kieran's Community Centre, now in its nineteenth year. Labasheeda is a unique setting on the northern bank of the river Shannon. Relax in the Bed of Silk! A general welcome is extended to all visitors on the Friday night where an exhibition of local history and parish records will be launched. Overseas visitors will be given the opportunity to practise their set-dancing skills or else beginners can learn the sets at the workshop being held on Saturday morning. Sunday's events are particularly suited to our overseas visitors as a historic tour of the parish begins in the morning at 11am. - 23rd - 25th August 2013
Doolin Irish Craft Beer & Food Festival, Doolin
The Doolin Craft Beer Festival takes place in the grounds of Hotel Doolin. The picturesque North Clare Village will play host to craft brewers from around the country, North Clare’s finest food producers and talented Irish musicians. The event will feature music all weekend as well as a farmers market, beer, cheese and wine tastings. Contact Dónal Minihane, 00353 87 2977462, dminihane@hoteldoolin.ie & www.irishcraftbeerfestival.com & www.facebook.com/pages/All- Ireland-Craft-Beerfest - 23rd- 25th August 2013
Village Carnival, Newmarket-on-Fergus
Arts, music & heritage festival. This year’s festival will have special emphasis on celebrating our heritage with plenty of music and entertainment throughout the weekend.
00353 61 368030 villagecarnival@obair.org & www.villagecarnival.com - 19th - 22nd August 2013
Women’s International Team Challenge, Lahinch
Women’s Golfing Challenge. Contact Paddy Keane 00353 65 7081003
info@lahinchgolf.com - 18th August 2013
Kilmurry Harvest Festival, Kilmurry
Kilmurry Harvest Festival offers a full programme of fun events to provide fantastic summer entertainment for all the family. Contact Sean O’Reilly 00353 87 9671623 festival@kilmurry.com & www.kilmurry.com - 17th - 25th August 2013
Tulla Week Of Welcomes, Tulla
A series of heritage and music based events are planned to welcome home our diaspora from all over the world. Contact Tulla Courthouse Office 00353 68 31648 tullacooffice@eircom.net & www.tulla.ie & www.facebook.com/tullacourthouse - 17th - 25th August 2013
Heritage Week County Clare
A wide variety of heritage events will take place throughout County Clare, including guided walks, tours and talks, exhibitions, workshops, practical demonstrations and outings. Many of the events are free of charge. Contact Congella McGuire 00353 65 6821616 cmcguire@clarecoco.ie & www.clarecoco.ie & www.heritageweek.ie - 17th August 2013
Kilkee Bay Swim, Kilkee
Annual Bay Swim. Contact Paddy Collins www.loophead.ie - 16th - 18th August 2013
The Connellan Family Reunion, Ennis
A family reunion of all Connellans from Canada, Ireland & England. Main event will be in Ennis with a visit to the “old homestead” in Kilmaley. Contact Tina Whelan 00353 87 2120630 - 15th - 18th August 2013
Carrigaholt Family Festival, Carrigaholt
A four day Festival of fun and craic for all the family, from the carnival to outdoor Céilí dancing. The sports day and fancy dress really brings families together. Contact Mags Keane, 00353 65 9058102, magskeane@hotmail.com, www.loophead.ie - 14th - 18th August 2013
Merriman Summer School, Lisdoonvarna
Lectures, seminars, poetry readings, discussions & outings.
00353 86 328 0671, www.merriman.ie - 12th – 16th & 19th – 23rd August 2013
Fine Art Workshops, Ballyvaughan
A series of 3 - 5 day workshops where participants can enjoy small classes, professional artist tutors and dedicated studios all within the creative community of the art college.
Contact 00353 65 7077200, julia@burrencollege.ie and www.burrencollege.ie - Monday, August 12th 2013
Riches of Clare Traditional Music Concert at the Feakle Music Festival
A free lunchtime Traditional Music Concert, starting at 1 pm featuring Noel O'Donoghue, Colm Healy, Brian Mooney and Tommy Caroe - 10th August 2013
Irish Music Gathering Celebrating 20 years of Music Workshops at the Boghill Centre Kilfenora.
Two weeks of Traditional Irish Music Workshops culminating in a day of celebration and festivities to mark 20 years of The Boghill Centre. Contact Cari Ryan / Sonja O’Brien, 00353 65 7074644, boghill@eircom.net & www.boghill.com & www.facebook.com/boghillcentre - 10th August 2013
30 Year School Reunion, of St. Patrick’s Comprehensive, Shannon.
A school reunion for the class of 1983 of St. Patrick’s Comprehensive, Shannon. It is not
restricted to the class of 1983, but is open to any Comp. friends who wish to attend. Contact Helen Flynn Whitehead, 001 416 873 1011 - 10th August 2013
Diving Boards Competition, Kilkee
Contact Elaine Haugh, www.loophead.ie - Thursday, 8th August, 2013
Classical Thursday Summer Lunchtime Recital Series in St. Columba’s Church, Bindon Street, Ennis
from 1.05 p.m. to 1.40 p.m
Featuring Helen Houlihan Soprano, Edel O’Brien Mezzo –Soprano, Michael Hennessy
Tickets €10.00, available at the door - Students €5
www.cathydesmond.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/fidleir - August 7th - 12th 2013
Feakle International Festival of Traditional Irish Music
6 days of music, song, dance with concerts, ceilís, recitals, workshops, walks & childrens
activities. Contact Gary Pepper 00353 61 924322 or 00353 87 9678020
info@feaklefestival.ie & http://www.feaklefestival.ie/ - 7th - 11th August
Inis Cathaigh CCÉ Kilrush Traditional Music and Set Dancing Festival, Kilrush
Open air céilí, sessions, music and set dancing classes & concertina competitions.
Contact Ann Hayes, 00353 87 2663718, www.kilrushcce.com - 5th - 11th August 2013
The Therapeutic Effects of Irish Set Dancing in the Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease.
Feakle. First international symposium of its kind in Ireland, exploring the value of music in relation to health & wellbeing. Contact Pat Hayes 00353 87 6820167, hayespatrick@eircom.net and www.feaklefestival.ie - 5th August 2013
Doonbeg Regatta, Doonbeg
Contact Shaunie Honan 00353 87 6188701 - 4th - 9th August 2013
Rose of Clare, Cooraclare
Contact Sean Chambers, 00353 86 0536615, www.cooraclare.com - 4th - 5th August 2013
The Living Past: Lughnasa Festival at Craggaunowen (near Quin).
Featuring costumed re-enactors from the Bronze Age to Medieval times. Enjoy combat demonstrations, ancient cooking demonstrations and much more! Contact Central Reservations 00353 61 360788, reservations@shannonheritage.com and www.shannonheritage.com/SpecialEvents - 3rd August 2013
Kildysart Agricultural Show
Contact Dan O’Connell, 00353 86 8368866, kildysartshow@eircom.net - 2nd - 17th August 2013
Milesian Gathering Cooraclare & Cree
A Community reunion in Cooraclare and Cree. Contact Gerard Kelly 00353 86 2876402
gerarddangan@gmail.com - August 2nd - 5th 2013
Scariff Harbour Festival
Launched in 2003, the annual Scariff Harbour Festival is an open-air, street-based event showcasing the many attractions and amenities accessible from Scariff. Its aim is to promote the leisure and pleasure potential of Lough Derg, the inland waterways and the East Clare countryside both among local people and visitors from further afield. The four-day festival, which takes place over the August bank holiday weekend, offers a varied programme of activities, arts, music and entertainment inspired by the “lake” theme. Contact Harry O’Meara 00353 87 2308974, harryomeara@eircom.net, www.scariff.ie - 2nd - 5th August 2013
Kilmihil Festival of Fun
A family funfilled weekend which includes 10k fun run/walk; céilí; Knockalough Lake and bonamh (baby pig) race, parade on the Sunday, working vintage rally and more. Contact John Dalton 00353 86 3633998, www.kilmihilfestivaloffun.com - 2nd - 5th August 2013
KildysART Community Gallery & Craft Shop Exhibition, Kildysart
Exhibition of Art and Crafts by local people from Kildysart, Cranny, Coolmeen, Ballynacally, Labasheeda and surrounding areas. See the wealth of talent and skill in our local community. Enjoy homebaking and jams. Listen to local musicians and meet your neighbours. Contact Bernie O Gorman 00353 87 3160544, kildysartcommunitygallery@gmail.com - 2nd - 4th August 2013
The Burren Brewery Craft Beer Festival, Lisdoonvarna
This event will feature Irelands finest craft beers washed down with copious
amounts of great music and artisan food! Contact Peter Curtin 00353 87 8300069
roadsidetavern@gmail.com, www.roadsidetavern.ie - 2nd - 4th August 2013
Kilmaley Meitheal Weekend, Kilmaley
A series of events planned to welcome all
to Kilmaley. Contact Tom McNamara, 00353 87 6781676, tommcn@eircom.net - Thursday, 1st August, 2013
Classical Thursday Summer Lunchtime Recital Series in St. Columba’s Church, Bindon Street, Ennis
from 1.05 p.m. to 1.40 p.m.
Featuring Owen Gilhooly Baritone & Irina Dernova Piano
Tickets €10.00, available at the door - Students €5.00
www.cathydesmond.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/fidleir
- Wednesday, July 31st 2013
Riches of Clare Traditional Music Concert in the Clare Museum
A free lunchtime Traditional Music Concert, starting at 1 pm featuring Rafe and Monica Morgan, Fergal Burke and Fintan McMahon - 28th July 2013
South East Clare Agricultural Show, Bridgetown
Annual agricultural show held at Bridgetown, Co. Clare, with events for horses, ponies, showjumping, cattle, novelty events and more. Contact Pat Duggan 00353 61 377778 or 00353 87 1312653, info@bridgetownshow.com, www.bridgetownshow.com - 27th - 28th July 2013
The Doonbeg Food Festival
This two day festival encompasses seafood, cooking demonstrations, marine education,
music and family fun. Contact Seamus Dooley, 00353 65 9055618, Seamus_Dooley@Doonbeglodge.com, www.doonbegseafoodfestival.com - Wednesday, July 24th 2013
Riches of Clare Traditional Music Concert in the Clare Museum
A free lunchtime Traditional Music Concert, starting at 1 pm featuring Denis Liddy, Elvie Miller, Patsy Lewis and Verena Commins - July 21st - 29th 2013
The Gathering in Doonbeg
A week-long celebration that will reflect the common interests that bind this community together including GAA, traditional music, dance and storytelling, amateur dramatics and a range of history-based activities that will help to recount and and reconstruct the history of the village and its people. Contact Tommy Comerford 00353 87 9090345, doongathering2013@gmail.com - Saturday July 20th 2013
McGrath Clan History and Origins from IslandMcGrath
Imecofarm, Islandmagrath, County Clare. 2pm - 3pm.
We are linking in here with the Mcgraths of Wasterford and the Ulster McGraths to tell the story of how the first McGraths began here at imecofarm in the 11th century, had their main stronghold here for over 500 years, were the earliest bards, were head abbots in the local abbeys, were bishops for the diocese receiving papal letters from the Vatican, and were the hereditary poets for the O Brien Kings, and provided trained poets to other kings around Ireland. A fascinating story of one of the most important families in Irish History. This is a day for prebooking for any McGrath around the World, and we have organised a bus tour around Clarecastle and Ennis with lunch provided, and finishing in the evening with Irish traditional music in Ennis town. - 20th July 2013
Aru Fírinne Los Paddys de las Pampas, Ennistymon
8.30pm.An international culture and music exchange between the Traditional Irish musicians of Buenos Aires and Ennistymon, North Clare. Contact Paddy Mulcahy, 00353 85 1054858, Paddymulcahymusic@gmail.com, www.paddymulcahy.com - 19th - 21st July 2013
Kilkee Maritime Festival
Plenty of maritime activities to look forward to. Highlight is Currach Regatta on Sunday with BBQ on pier. Monster raft race, water activities including kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing & sailing. Sand castle competition, face painting, treasure hunt, street parade, pony rides, puppet shows, beach BBQ, Kilkee Marine Rescue Open Day & lots more. Contact Johnny Redmond, 00353 86 2638251, kilkeechamber@gmail.com - 19th - 20th July 2013
A Night of Mediaeval Entertainment, Dysert O’Dea Castle, Corofin
A unique event for all to enjoy. Contact Breda Considine, 00353 65 6837794
bredagconsidine@gmail.com, www.dysertcastle.com - 18th July 2013
The Irish Chamber Orchestra, Culturlann Sweeney , Kilkee at 8pm
Katherine Hunka Leader, Colin Dunne Dancer. (In association with Bord Gáis).
Suk Serenade Op.6
Linda Buckley The Turn- Dance in your Blood (World Premiere)
Erkki-Sven Tüür Action - Passion – Illusion
Dvorák Two Waltzes Op. 54, Nos. 1 & 4
Katherine Hunka directs the ICO’s Feet First Tour which offers a kaleidoscopic range of music combining old with new sounds. Dancer Colin Dunne, is internationally renowned for his performances in Riverdance and Dancing on Dangerous Ground. Dunne leads the Irish Chamber Orchestra’s latest commission (a world premiere by Kinsale-born composer, Linda Buckley), from his feet! This visually captivating dance The Turn – Dance in Your Blood, was inspired by Icelandic poet, Rumi. Estonian pop-star-turned-composer Erkki-Sven Tüür’s Action - Passion – Illusion is a stunning work with warm string tones. Action resembles a Bartokian march. Passion is elegiac and begins slowly, becoming faster before reaching an electrifying conclusion. Illusion is hypnotic and its articulation is breath-taking. Dvorák's Op. 54 waltzes were part of a flurry of piano writing. He selected the first and fourth of the set of eight and arranged them for string orchestra. The result is a pair of charming, three-minute bonbons that inspired his student, Josef Suk. With echoes of Dvorák, Suk’s Serenade for Strings Op. 6, remains one of his best-loved works. The Irish Chamber Orchestra is funded by the Arts Council of Ireland. www.irishchamberorchestra.com. Culturlann Sweeney , Kilkee 8pm, Tickets: 065-9060769 kilkeeboxoffice@clarelibrary.ie €20 - Thursday, 18th July, 2013
Classical Thursday Summer Lunchtime Recital Series in St. Columba’s Church, Bindon Street, Ennis
from 1.05 p.m. to 1.40 p.m.
Featuring Ruth Kelly Soprano & Michael Hennessy Piano
Tickets €10.00, available at the door - Students €5.00
www.cathydesmond.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/fidleir - Wednesday, July 17th 2013
Riches of Clare Traditional Music Concert in the Clare Museum
A free lunchtime Traditional Music Concert, starting at 1 pm featuring Damien and Padraic O'Reilly, James Cullinan and Caoilfhionn Ní Fhrighil - 15th July - 10th August 2013
Summer Music on the Shannon
Summer Music on the Shannon is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Enjoy free lunchtime concerts, opera performances, orchestral concerts, opera programme classes and instrumental tuition. Contact Robert Creech 00353 65 7087566, summermusic@iol.ie www.summermusicingalway - 12th - 22nd July 2013
Clarecastle Village Gathering & Festival of Fun
The festival will incorporate the renowned Clarecastle Regatta as well as the ever-popular Céilí at the Crossroads. Alongside these events there will be a variety of other activities including a GAA fun day, concerts, Scout activities, Guided River walks, Boat trips, Heritage Tours, Art Workshops, Teenage Activities, Antiques Fair, Golf Classic, Evening entertainment and even a World Record Attempt, with more activities being added all the time. Contact Ian Dinan or Marie Clare Gorman 00353 86 8196571 or 00353 86 3853637, clarecastlegathering@gmail.com , www.clarecastlegathering2013.blogspot.ie/ & www.facebook.com/ClarecastleGathering2013 - 12th - 14th July 2013
Celebrate Scattery Island
A celebration of life on Scattery Island with welcome ceremony, ceilidh, photography exhibition, guided tours & history of the island. Contact Rita McCarthy, 00353 87 9731162 mccarthyrita09@gmail.com and infoscattery@gmail.com - 10th July - 18th August 2013
Carmel T. Madigan’s Loophead Summer Hedge School
Environmental and creative experiential leisure learning. Outdoor/indoor school encompassing guided botanical walks/slide shows, rocky shore explorations/slide shows, tasting & saving the hedgerow events, rugged way walk and lots more. Contact Carmel Madigan, 00353 86 8197726 or 00353 65 6842884. www.carmelmadigangallery.com or www.loopheadsummerhedgeschool.com - 10th – 17th July 2013
Dance on the Shannon, Mountshannon
Intensive Irish Dance camp taught by Joni Muggivan, TCRG and original Riverdance cast member/multi-world champion Areleen Ni Bhaoill. Contact Ann Krannitz, 001 540 903 7213 info@danceontheshannon.com, www.danceontheshannon.wix.com/danceontheshannon - 7th July, 2013
'Wildflower Wonderland - The Flowers and Plants of the Burren in Summer', July’s Burrenbeo Trust walk with Micheline Sheehy Skeffington
2.15pm at Gortlecka Crossroads or take 2pm bus from NPWS info point Corofin.
Join us for July’s Burrenbeo Trust walk led by Dr Micheline Sheehy Skeffinton, plant ecologist from NUI Galway. The walk will focus on the array of plants and flowers which the Burren is famed for. Afterwards, there will be the opportunity to visit the nearby ‘Father Ted’ house where people can enjoy some refreshments. There will be a €5 charge per person for the optional tea and scones. Walk starts at 2.15pm from Gortlecka crossroads, or take the 2pm bus from the NPWS info point in Corofin. The walk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €5 is suggested from non-members. This walk is off-road so please wear the right shoes, be of reasonable fitness and bring waterproofs. if needed. For more information please email trust@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096. - 7th July 2013
Falconry Display, Clarecastle
Munster Falconry bring some of their hawks, falcons and owls for a great educational show on falconry. Lots of indoor areas and fun together with face-painting, train ride, feed the friendly animals, reptile house, treasure hunt, orienteering, forest and river trails, indoor hall with bouncy castle, spiral slide, climbing castles, play areas, vintage and history displays. Contact Eddie Connors, 00353 65 6841552 or 00353 87 4000393, info@imecofarm.com, www.imecofarm.com - July 6th - 14th 2013
Willie Clancy Summer School - Miltown Malbay
The Willie Clancy Summer School is dedicated to promoting the study and practice of Irish Traditional music, song & dance. Contact Harry Hughes 00353 65 7084281 or 00353 86 8773747 www.visitmiltownmalbay.ie or www.oac.ie - 6th – 14th July 2013
Armada International Week of Set Dancing, Spanish Point
A week long enjoyment of world class Set Dancing. Contact Burkes Armada Hotel
00353 65 7084110, info@armadahotel.com, www.armadahotel.com - 6th – 7th July 2013
Scattery Island/Kilrush Gathering Event
The event, organised by The Scattery Island Heritage and Tourism Forum, takes place over two days and includes historic tours of the island, music, dance and storytelling, historical reenactment as well as boat trips on the Sally O'Keefe and a currach race between Scattery Islanders. The Scattery Island Heritage and Tourism Forum was set up by a group of VEC students who completed the Heritage and Tourism programme in Kilrush Adult Education centre last year. This group has gone from strength to strength and now includes a wide sector of the community in west Clare and we are now compiling a history of Scattery Island with the help of Breda and Community Ed. The group is also working with the OPW in improving access to the island's monuments and historic sites of which there are many. This group is an example of how a VEC programme can empower not only learners but a community. - Saturday, July 6th 2013
Book Launch: Clare Folk Tales, by Ruth Marshall
Glór, Ennis, from 2:00pm to 4:00pm - July 5th - 7th 2013
Ennis Street Fesival
The Festival will run on the 5th 6th and 7th of July, and there will also be a variety of exciting workshops for kids and adults running from 1ST to 5th of July in association with Glór. With the concept “Let’s Explore” we invite everybody to explore our beautiful town and to enjoy our Gathering Ireland 2013 amazing events. Every year this arts festival brings all the local community out onto the streets of our town together to celebrate the many cultures and artistic ways that make Ennis such a special place during these events with an exciting, exhilarating and colourful mix of Acrobatics, Music, Dance, Visual Art, Workshops, Theatre, Puppet Shows, Street Art, the local Art & Craft Market and the Duck Race, put together by both national and international artists and local community groups.
Contact: info@ennisstreetfestival.com, http://ennisstreetfestival.com/wp/ - July 4th - 7th 2013
Féile Brian Ború, Killaloe and Ballina.
Féile Brian Boru is an annual festival held in Killaloe & Ballina to commemorate Ireland’s Greatest High King in his native place. The festival includes heritage, arts, music, comedy, family & outdoor events in the twin towns of Killaloe & Ballina. Contact Arlene White 00353 86 4462446 info@feilebrianboru.com http://www.feilebrianboru.com/. - Thursday, 4th July, 2013
Classical Thursday Summer Lunchtime Recital Series in St. Columba’s Church, Bindon Street, Ennis
from 1.05 p.m. to 1.40 p.m.
Featuring Elena McLeod Soprano & Michael Hennessy
Tickets €10.00, available at the door - Students €5.00
www.cathydesmond.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/fidleir - Wednesday, July 3rd 2013
Riches of Clare Traditional Music Concert in the Clare Museum
A free lunchtime Traditional Music Concert, starting at 1 pm featuring Bríd O'Gorman, Joan Hanrahan, Noirín Lynch and Eoin O'Neill - 3rd July 2013
Arts in Focus, Kilkee
7.30-9.30 pm. This popular event will showcase local artists, poets, musicians and dancers of all ages, providing enjoyable entertainment for all. Contact Maureen Glynn, 00353 65 9056126, mjbglynn@gmail.com, www.kilkeecivictrust.org - 1st – 7th July 2013
Flower-Power: Ballyvaughan celebrates Dr. O Kelly
A week of walks, talks, workshops, exhibitions and cultural events all celebrating Dr. O Kelly, the enigmatic botanist of Ballyvaughan. Contact Mary Hawkes 00353 87 2793066, mhg@burrencollege.ie
- 30th June - 4th July
Flute Week, Liscannor - OAIM Irish Music Retreats
A flute intensive week featuring tutors Niall Keegan, Kevin Crawford and Kirsten Allstaff. Includes daily group workshops and master classes, trips to traditional music sessions and concerts in the locality. Contact Mathew Curley 00353 85 2854320, irishmusicholidays@oaim.ie www.irishmusicholidays.com - 30th June - 1st July 2013
Clare Crawfords & Relations, Spanish Point
A get together of all Crawford relations from around the world. Two days of Social, Cultural, History, Genealogy, Music, Dancing, Walks and lots more. Contact Mary Crawford and Christy Killeen 00353 65 7084311
or 00353 87 2581228, info@sjspoint.com - 29th - 30th June 2013
“Hell of The West” Triathlon Weekend, Kilkee
A challenging triathlon located in the seaside resort of Kilkee. Contact Cillian Murphy 00353 86 2780161, kilkee_director@limericktriathlon.com, www.limericktriathlon.com - 29th June 2013
Solpadeine Is My Boyfriend, Culturlann Sweeney, Kilkee
This show is about a new Irish generation who were promised everything; a life of financial stability and job security, but they now find themselves queuing either at the airport to emigrate, or the social welfare office to sign-on. It is a generation that feel entitled not to experience depression, economic or personal, and whose availability to over-the-counter medication allows them to numb both. Written and performed by Cork native Stefanie Preissner, this high-octane performance is broken up by moments of near stand-up comedy. While premiering at Dublin Fringe in 2012, the show received rave reviews and extensive interest from around Ireland and abroad. The piece resonates with all Irish audiences, regardless of where they are from due to the mass exodus of young people leaving for Australia, Canada and America in recent years. Show starts at 8pm. Contact (065)9060769 or kilkeeboxoffice@clarelibrary.ie - 28th - 30th June
Féile Chnoc na Gaoithe, Tulla Comhaltas Cultural Centre, Tulla
Festival of Traditional Irish music, song and dance to celebrate The Gathering at Cnoc na Gaoithe, the Tulla Comhaltas Cultural Centre. Contact Breda McNamara 00353 87 835 0996, www.cnocnagaoithe.ie - 27th - 29th June 2013
Melican Gathering at Fiddle Head Pub, Kilmihil
This event will include presentations on Melican family research, tours of the towns where Melicans lived and tourist attractions including Scattery Island, the Burren, Cliffs of Moher and Bunratty. Dr Ciara Breathnach of the University of Limerick will deliver a lecture on ‘Irish Pioneers in New Zealand 1860 - 1880’. Contact Elizabeth Melican Odell
001 907 486 5597 (Alaska), deodell@mac.com, www.facebook.com/melicanclan - Wednesday, June 26th 2013
Riches of Clare Traditional Music Concert in the Clare Museum
A free lunchtime Traditional Music Concert, starting at 1 pm featuring Martin Connolly, Tony Linnane, Jim O'Connor and Geraldine Cotter - 24th June (Monday)
Spancilhill Horse Fair
Contact Eva Considine 00353 65 6835483, info@spancilhillfair.com, www.spancilhillfair.com - 23rd June 2013
Ballyea Community Gathering
Community Celebration of St John’s Eve. A unique event in Ballyea, with community procession from St John’s Well to Mass at Killone Abbey and community entertainment. Contact Rosemary Meaney, 00353 87 9044363, patmeaney@eircom.net - 23rd June 2013
Welcoming Clare/Claire to Clare - The Gathering 2013
This fun event aims to set a World record for the number of Clares/Claires in a central location in County Clare. Contact Sharon Meaney, 00353 65 6866800, info@volunteerclare.ie - 22nd - 23rd June 2013
Welcoming Families Home, Doolin
This event will form part of the 2nd Doolin Heritage Weekend which is being held on 22nd and 23rd June 2013. The Heritage Weekend aims to raise awareness both locally and nationally of the need for conservation and restoration of the built and natural heritage of the Doolin area. This year it will highlight the connection between the Irish overseas and the people buried in Killilagh Graveyard. The McNamara family’s links with Doolin will be explored. Includes, tours, heritage walks, site visits and information sessions. Contact Joseph McCooey, 00353 86 8754604, seosamh33@eircom.net - Saturday 22nd June 2013
Clare Museum
Welcoming Clare/Claire to Clare, The Gathering 2013 - Clare Curtin
On Saturday, 22nd June at 2.30pm Clare Curtin will visit the Clare Museum to give a talk entitled ‘An American Perspective on Tracing Family’. This talk will mark the Gathering event entitled Welcoming Claire to County Clare being held from June 21st – 23rd. Clare Curtin is an independent researcher who was born in Greenwich Village of Irish parents from County Clare. All are welcome to this free event, especially those of you named Clare/Claire/Clair! Contact the museum at 065-6823382 or visit www.welcomingclairetoclare.com for more information. - 22nd June 2013
An Post Tour de Burren Cycle Challenge, Ballyvaughan
10km, 60km, 100km and 160km cycle event – something for everyone. Contact Patrick O’Donoghue/John Sweeney, info@burrencyclingclub.com, www.tourdeburren.com - June 21st - 23rd 2013
Ennis Roots Weekend
Ennis will host a free concert on June 21st to connect with music day around the globe. This weekend Programme will reach out to lovers of traditional music around the world. Events include a Guinness World record attempt for the largest tin whistle ensemble along with Lúnasa and special guests, performance with the world’s best known céilí band on stage; the Kilfenora Céilí Band, an International Street band competition and don’t forget to bring your passport for the ‘meet the town tour’ and receive a special welcome in the shops. Contact Tracy Crawford 00353 86 8520975, Email: lovelivemusicennis@gmail.com Web: www.facebook.com/lovelivemusicennis - 21st June 2013
Fill Campbell ' A Song At Twilight' Culturlann Sweeney, Kilkee
A nostalgic night of popular Irish songs and stories from the 1930s and 40s to the present. Come and have a good sing along to the Irish songs of a gentler era when Fil Campbell and Tom McFarland make a visit to the Culturlann Sweeney in Kilkee on the 21st June. Fil and Tom present an affectionate tribute to the Irish folk songs that generations of Irish grew up with - songs that were recorded by women like Delia Murphy, Bridie Gallagher and Mary O'Hara whose lives Fil documented in her RTE documentary series Songbirds - and continuing on to the songs recorded by more contemporary Irish singers like Dolores Keane and Mary Black. Fil is joined by Tom McFarland on vocals and percussion on the night. Free Admission. Contact (065)9060769 or email kilkeeboxoffice@clarelibrary.ie - 21st June 2013
Mid Summer Garden Party, Scariff
3pm to 10pm. Celebrate the longest day of the year with your family, puppet show, food from the Garden, poetry, music, artisan food and craft market and more. Free event. 00353 61 921 536, eastclarecoop@gmail.com, www.eastclarecoop.com - 20th of June 2013
Clare Intercultural Network - World Refugee Day event
The Junction Community Centre, Cloughleigh, 2.00pm until 5pmClare Intercultural Network invites you to join them to mark World Refugee Day in solidarity with people seeking refuge and asylum in Ireland and internationally. This event honors the courage, strength and determination of women, men and children who are forced to flee their homeland under threat of persecution, conflict and violence. The theme for 2013 is “One family torn apart by war; is one too many” . The day will include music, poetry, an overview of family reunification, stories and discussion. It aims to highlight the trauma that conflict, war and fleeing one’s country brings, to create an opportunity to hear the real stories of people coming to Ireland seeking refuge.The Clare Intercultural Network is a network of agencies and individuals working together to promote interculturalism in County Clare. Partners include; Clarecare, Clare Immigrant Support Centre, Clare Women’s Network and Ennis Community Development Project. For further information contact Alphonse on 0858500079 or Orla 0872385990 - Thursday 20th June, 2013
Classical Thursday Summer Lunchtime Recital Series in St. Columba’s Church, Bindon Street, Ennis
from 1.05 p.m. to 1.40 p.m.
Featuring Edel O’Brien Mezzo-Soprano & Irina Dernova Piano.
Tickets €10.00, available at the door - Students €5.00
www.cathydesmond.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/fidleir - Wednesday, June 19th 2013
Riches of Clare Traditional Music Concert in the Clare Museum
A free lunchtime Traditional Music Concert, starting at 1 pm featuring Carmel, Teresa and Niamh O'Dea and Fiona de Buitléar - 19th June, 2013
‘Discover the Lough Avalla Loop’ with Harry Jeuken and Richard Morrison
2pm at Gortlecka Crossroads.
As part of the Burren Rocks festival, the Burrenbeo Trust in conjunction with Farm Heritage Tours are running a walk around Harry Jeukens Poulnalour farm. Harry farms the land organically and has many interesting sites and stories relating to his farm and the surrounding area. Walk starts at 2pm from Gortlecka crossroads. The walk is open to everyone and costs €20 per person or €15 for members of the Burrenbeo Trust. This walk is off-road so please wear the right shoes, be of reasonable fitness and bring waterproofs, if needed. For more information please email trust@burrenbeo.com or phone 087 207 4205. - Tuesday June 18th 2013
McGrath Clan History and Origins from IslandMcGrath
Imecofarm, Islandmagrath, County Clare.10am - 9pm.
We are linking in here with the Mcgraths of Wasterford and the Ulster McGraths to tell the story of how the first McGraths began here at imecofarm in the 11th century, had their main stronghold here for over 500 years, were the earliest bards, were head abbots in the local abbeys, were bishops for the diocese receiving papal letters from the Vatican, and were the hereditary poets for the O Brien Kings, and provided trained poets to other kings around Ireland. A fascinating story of one of the most important families in Irish History. This is a day for prebooking for any McGrath around the World, and we have organised a bus tour around Clarecastle and Ennis with lunch provided, and finishing in the evening with Irish traditional music in Ennis town. - 17th - 23rd June
Clare Embroidery: Flowers of The Burren, Barefield
Clare Embroidery ‘Flowers of the Burren’ Workshop at the ICA Cottage, Barefield. Contact Frances O’Halloran, 00353 87 2799260 franohall@eircom.net www.facebook.com/clareica - 16th June 2013
Currach Regatta, Kilbaha
Enjoy currach racing at Kilbaha. Contact Maureen Walsh www.loophead.ie - 15th June 2013
John Carty and Arty McGlynn, Culturlann Sweeney, Kilkee
John Carty, one of the finest names in Irish traditional music will appear in this intimate gig highlighting his unique fiddle, banjo and tenor guitar playing. John has become one of the most sought after traditional musicians in the country. In 2003 he was awarded the coveted TG4 Musician of the Year. He will be joined by guitar genius Arty McGlynn, whose subtle guitar playing is the perfect accompaniment. Arty has played with Planxty, Patrick Street, De Danann and the Van Morrison Band, and has recorded and played with Christy Moore, Paul Brady, Donal Lunny, Liam O'Flynn, the Chieftains and most recently in Tim O’Brien’s The Crossing. Together they produce an uninhibited atmosphere which shows the audience just how much they are enjoying the musical moment and invite the audience to share that sense of spontaneous pleasure. Starts 8pm. Tickets €20 and €18 (concession) Contact (065) 9060769 or email kilkeeboxoffice@clarelibrary.ie - 15th June 2013
Global Sports Gathering, St.Joseph’s Doora/Barefield GAA Ground
Our theme is a Global sports Gathering where we will endeavour to invite other sporting teams from around the world to put on a display of their sport. Contact Cillian Griffey 00353 86 1768159, cilliangriffey@gmail.com, www.doorabarefieldgaa.com - 14th - 16th June 2013
Doolin Folk Festival
The Doolin Folk Festival takes place in the grounds of Hotel Doolin. With the best of Irish Trad, Folk and Country, the line-up will include some of Ireland’s best loved singer songwriters, bands and musicians as well as local and emerging talent. Contact Dónal Minihane 00353 87 2977462, dminihane@hoteldoolin.ie, www.doolinfolkfestival.com - 14th -16th June
The Kerin Clan Reunion, Ennis
The Kerin Clan family reunion with family relations and friends from Ireland, England, United States & Australia to include entertainment, tour of Clare and a visit to the original Kerin family home in Steeles Terrace. Contact Vanessa Flaherty or David Kerin 00353 86 1523263 or 00353 87 1374193, davidkerin2@gmail.com - 14 -16 June 2013
Killaloe Chamber Music Festival in Killaloe Cathedral, Killaloe.
The Killaloe Chamber Music Festival brings international quality Classical music back to Killaloe over three days this June. The theme for the 2013 festival is The Viennese Phenomenon. Tickets €20 per concert or €50 festival ticket. Available http://www.uch.ie or 061-331549 http://www.killaloemusic.com - Friday, June 14th 2013
Riches of Clare Traditional Music Concert at the Clare Fleadh, Miltown Malbay
A free lunchtime Traditional Music Concert, starting at 1 pm featuring John Joe Tuttle, Thierry Masure, Bríd O'Donoghue and Liam O'Brien - Friday 14 June 2013
Life in 3 Words – Emer O’Flaherty with Etain McCooey, Karen Kelly and Ian Lambe.
The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon.
Life in 3 Words is a collection of songs written by Ennis native Emer O’Flaherty, which will premier at the Ennistymon Courthouse Gallery on Friday 14 June at 8 pm. Emer, who studied voice with Máire Keary Scanlon in Limerick and piano with Geraldine Hanly and Carmel Griffin before going on to the Royal Irish Academy of Music, Dublin, will air her more sultry tones to sing about life, loss, love and lust, in her performance. She regularly plays The Ginger Jam Sessions in Brandon’s, Ennis, and has performed lead roles with various musical societies throughout Clare, Galway and Limerick. The title of the show ‘Life in 3 words’ originates in the fact that almost all of the songs have three word titles, and interestingly each are written in a different key. The show will go on to be performed as part of the 2013 Edinburgh Fringe Festival from August 2nd to 10th. Emer will be accompanied on the night by Etain McCooey (oboe), Karen Kelly (violin) and Ian Lambe (guitar). - 13th - 16th June 2013
County Fleadh, Miltown Malbay
Music, Song and Dance. Competitions, informal sessions and open air music. Contact Cois na hAbhna, 00353 65 6824276, www.coisnahabhna.ie - Wedensday, June 12th 2013
Riches of Clare Traditional Music Concert in the Clare Museum
A free lunchtime Traditional Music Concert, starting at 1 pm featuring Eimear and Sharon Howley, Tim Collins and Anthony Quigney - 9th June 2013
Estuary 120 Cycle, Labasheeda
The annual cycle takes participants through the roads of West Clare on a 120km route. Contact: John O’Connell, 00353 87 9672441, estuary120@gmail.com, www.estuary120.com - 9th June 2013
Pink Ribbon Walk, Killaloe
10km sponsored walk to raise funds for Action Breast Cancer, a subsidiary of the Irish Cancer Society. A wonderful day for the whole family bringing together cancer patients, cancer survivors and their families and friends, all walking in support or in memory of loved ones. Contact Nicola Wood 00353 86 7969001, info@pinkribbonwalk.ie, www.pinkribbonwalk.ie - 7th June - 4th July 2013
CHROMA, new paintings by Daniel McKeon, in The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon.
Daniel McKeon is a Dublin based artist who primarily works as a painter from a studio in the historical Henrietta Street area of Dublin. While growing into his twenties he lived and worked in County Clare where his sister Eileen still has a house today outside Ennis. Daniel Mckeon had his first solo exhibition at the Old Ground Hotel in 1978 alongside other artists who showed there at the time including John Shinnons, Michael Gemmell, Caitriona O’Connor, to name a few because there were no other galleries or venues suitable for showing artworks at the time in county Clare. He has since gone on to show his work in solo and group exhibitions nationally and internationally. For this exhibition he has made a new series of works titled Chroma which he hopes to use as an opportunity to reconnect to the county and people of Clare. - 7th June - 4th July 2013
HOUSING CRISIS, Ink drawing and paintings by Michael Coyne in The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon
Mick Coyne lives in Ennis, County Clare where he is well known in the traditional Irish music scene as an Uilleann piper and singer. Mick also has a hairdressing business. He became interested in drawing and painting when an ongoing illness kept him housebound. With the help of art teacher and friend José Croft his interest developed. While preparing for this exhibition José's knowledge and help has been invaluable. She recommended art teacher Ana Colomer for watercolor lessons. Pen and ink is the main medium for this exhibition. It is good for intricate work and crisp colour. Drawing occupies his time during times of pain and boredom and sometimes he could be up most of the night. Mick spent a year drawing trees. Most trees were with houses in mind, either a farm house or a Georgian house with a small cherry tree in the garden. He crossed over from trees to houses without really noticing it. - 6th June 2013
Traditional Horse Fair, Kilrush
Contact Kilrush Town Council, 00353 65 9051047, www.kilrush.ie - Thursday, 6th June, 2013
Classical Thursday Summer Lunchtime Recital Series in St. Columba’s Church, Bindon Street, Ennis
from 1.05 p.m. to 1.40 p.m.
Featuring Helen Houlihan Soprano and Irina Dernova Piano.
Tickets €10.00, available at the door - Students €5.00
www.cathydesmond.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/fidleir - 5th June 2013
Arthur Watson Art Exhibition 'Spirit Store', at the Cultúrlann Sweeney Theatre, Kilkee
Arthur Watson will be reading poems from ‘Spirit Store’ and opening his exhibition of selected illustrations from ‘Spirit Store’ at the Cultúrlann Sweeney Theatre, Kilkee on Wednesday 5th of June at 6:30pm. Contact (065)9060769. Email kilkeeboxoffice@clarelibrary.ie - Wednesday, June 5th 2013
Riches of Clare Traditional Music Concert in the Clare Museum
A free lunchtime Traditional Music Concert, starting at 1 pm featuring Shane and Fiachra Hayes, Aodán Coyne and Niall Preston - 2nd June
Burrenbeo Trust June Walk ‘Conserving habitats for rare butterflies’ with Jesmond Harding.
Fahee South at 2pm
Meet at layby between NUIG Centre and Burren Perfumery. - 1st - 3rd June
Kilmurry McMahon Marquee Festival
The Kilkennys will provide the music on Saturday night, while Crystal Swing will perform on Sunday. A kiddies disco will round off the weekend on Monday afternoon. Contact David Neylon 00353 86 1613355, neylond@gmail.com, www.adventureplayground.ie - 1st - 2nd June 2013
Carrigaholt Dolphins & Nature Festival, Carrigaholt
This festival will feature presentations and workshops on wildlife and nature and will include dolphin and bird watching, wildflower and heritage walks and lots more. It will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Shannon Dolphin Research project and will also see the unveiling of an information board about the McMahon Tower House. Contact Susanne Magee, 00353 65 9058156, info@dolphinwatch.ie - 1st - 2nd June 2013
Come Back to Miltown Malbay
A Gathering of players and mentors from successful St. Joseph’s Miltown GAA teams since 1950. Contact John Reidy, 00353 65 7084267, miltownstjosephs@gmail.com, miltownstjosephs.blogspot.com, facebook… - 1st - 2nd June 2013
Wavemaster Surf & Music, Spanish Point
The wavemaster surf and music international gathering 2013 will feature a surf competition and concert with Sharon Shannon and The Stunning. The Bellbridge House Hotel will be the anchor for the special event and anticipates surf and music enthusiasts will be attracted to the uniqueness of this weekend. Contact Fiachra Vaughan & Derek Logue 00353 65 7084038 info@bellbridgehotelclare.com - 1st June 2013
Lou McMahon and Elder Roche at Culturlann Sweeney, Kilkee
Clare songstress Lou McMahons biggest platform yet, came when world and folk music label ARC Music UK selected her song 'Wide Eyed Lady' for a compilation album titled 'Ultimate Guide To Irish Folk' spanning 30 years. In 2011, Lou's song 'A River' was distributed throughout Ireland with The Irish Daily Mail Newspaper. The Irish Daily Mail and The Apprentice reality television series joined forces to create a musical task for the show. Thousands of artists entered the competition and Lou was one of the lucky ones to win through and have her 'song 'A River' featured on the 'Fighting Chance' CD. Lou's producer Terry Woods - The Pogues, Woodsband & Sweeney's Men fame, will feature as a special guest during Lou's performance here in Culturlann Sweeney.
Elder Roche is a Dublin based musical poet and has shared the stage with many of Ireland’s best including: Paddy Casey, Damien Rice, Mundy, Juliet Turner and Damien Dempsey.
The Irish Times have given his debut album (“Nobody Knows” ) a four star thumbs up saying: “There’s no doubting Elder Roche’s ears have been pricked for a long time. Elder’s song writing is peppered with Influences as wayward as Jethro Tull, Crowded House, Andy White and The Divine Comedy.
Tickets €10. Starts 8pm Contact (065)9060769, kilkeeboxoffice@clarelibrary.ie
- May 31st to June 3rd 2013
Doonbeg International Jazz Festival
Established weekend of Cool Swing, Dixie, Latin and Jazz music provided by global musicians. All events are free.Contact Philippa Seigrist 00353 65 9055345, info@doonbegjazz.com, http://www.doonbegjazz.com/cms/ - 31st May - 3rd June 2013
Féile an tSamhraidh (Burren Summer Festival), Ballyvaughan/Fanore
Féile an tSamhraidh is a family oriented activity weekend of water sport, cycling, walking and céilí events featuring some of Irelands most popular music acts. A gala concert takes place on 1st June. Contact: Tom O’Donnell, 00353 85 1744792, tpodonnell@eircom.ie, www.discoverballyvaughan.com/feile - 31st May 2013
Drumdigus National School Reunion, Kilmurry McMahon
Past pupils of the two National Schools will meet to reminisce about their school
days. All are welcome. Contact David Neylon 00353 86 1613355, neylond@gmail.com
www.adventureplayground.ie - 31st May 2013
End of Season Gathering,
X-PO, Kilnaboy, Corofin
9pm on - Phil the DJ will spin an eclectic selection of vinyl 45 records. Tea and biscuits and dancing plus whatever you are having yourself. Free. - 30th May - 3rd June 2013
Tuamgraney 2013
A community weekend of welcomes for all ex pats and visitors. Events include a céilí,
handball, sports, concert, music and craic. Contact Margaret O’Meara 00353 87 2937479,
tuamgraney2013@gmail.com - 28th May - 22nd June 2013
Painting Exhibition called ‘Clarescapes’ by Philip Brennan in Clare Museum, Ennis
“This exhibition is called ‘Clarescapes’ because nearly all of my work is rooted in the county. The previous ‘Wanderings’ and ‘Shorelines’ exhibitions were intended to give me more scope outside my native county but I found that most of my inspiration was still found in the Clare landscape, history and people. This show includes a wide variety of themes. There are rivers, the seasons, hidden places, the history of the Clare landscape and seascapes. Much of my earlier work was on wildlife themes. I continue to be involved in the natural life around me and this is reflected in this collection. Living in a county where music is so strong and because I do a lot of traditional singing I have included some paintings of musicians and singers. Most of the paintings are in watercolour, with some inks and acrylic also. www.philipbrennan.com.” - 28th May 2013
Film Special: AUGHTY by Tom Flanagan and Megs Morley
X-PO, Kilnaboy, Corofin
Free. The AUGHTY Film, a feature length experimental documentary made by artist filmmakers Tom Flanagan and Megs Morley, will be screened at X-PO at 8pm. Set against the stark and beautiful landscape of the Sliabh Aughty mountains Aughty is a documentary portrait of a unique place and people untouched by the boom and bust motions of the Irish 'Celtic Tiger', capturing a moment in time through the ordinary lives and traditions of Irish people in community, culture and resistance. In a landscape and population that is changing rapidly, Aughty leads us on a poetic journey into rural Ireland through the relationships of people and place. Curated by Dr Aine Phillips, Commissioned by Galway County Council Arts office and supported by Clare County Arts Office and the Ground Up Artists Collective. - Monday 27th & 28th May 2013
Mizen to Malin cycle (via Kilrush and Ballyvaughan) in aid of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind.
The trip covers 700km with the group beginning their cycle from Mizen head. They will cycle through Kilrush and on to Spanish point on Monday 27th May. The following morning, Tuesday 28th May, the cyclists will pass through Ennistymon, Lisdoonvarna and Ballyvaughan on their way to Galway. We would like to invite you as a supporter of IGDB to come meet them or keep an eye out for their Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind jerseys as they cycle through the area. I’m sure they would appreciate the support! - May 27th
Bavarian Choir performance
Kilnaboy Church.
Bavarian Choir perform at Kilnaboy Church at 5pm followed by soup and sandwiches at X-PO and the final X-PO Singing Club of the season - 26th May 2013
The Martin Fennel Memorial Tractor Run, Kilbaha
All money raised for the Kilkee Marine Rescue. Contact Maureen Walsh, www.loophead.ie - 25th May 2013
Sports Writer workshop - Doolin Writers Weekend
Do you have aspirations of being a published Sports Writer? Do you fancy yourself as a young Con Houlihan? Have you ever thought of putting pen to paper and writing your own Sports book? Then you need to come along to Doolin on the 25th May for the Sports Writing Workshop as part of the inaugural Doolin Writer’s Weekend in County Clare. Featuring GAA writer Seamus King (A History of Hurling, 1996, Gill & MacMillan), Sports writer Trevor Keane (Running through Walls, 2012, DB Publishing) and Sports photographer John Garrett (Be Inspired, Images & Stories of Limerick leaders, 2012) the 3 hour workshop is aimed to give up-&-coming writers the tools they need to get their Sports book from an idea on a notepad to a bookstore shelf. All three authors will share their experiences and will give aspiring writers the inside track on getting published. www.doolinwritersweekend.com. - May 25th 2013
Clare Burren Marathon Challenge
The Burren walking marathon has been an impressive success since it was first staged in 2008 with hundreds of people descending on Ballyvaughan each year for the unique walking event.
http://www.clareburrenmarathonchallenge.com/ - May 24th to June 3rd 2013
Iniscealtra Festival of Arts
Multi-disciplinary Arts Festival in the lakeshore village of Mountshannon; music, film, dance and visual arts and
green fair, with education programme and participatory events. Contact Paul Murray 00353 87 2380555
http://www.iniscealtra-artsfestival.org/ - 24th - 26th May 2013
Doolin Writers Weekend & Short Story Competition
Open to all writers, aspiring writers and lovers of literature everywhere. The weekend, run in conjunction with the Irish Writers Centre will be preceded by a short story competition in the months leading up to the festival, with a prize fund of €2,000. This event will feature traditional Irish music sessions, workshops, talks and readings by leading Irish writers.Contact Dónal Minihane 00353 87 2977462, dminihane@hoteldoolin.ie, www.writerscentre.ie - Friday, May 24th 2013
Riches of Clare Traditional Music Concert forFleadh Nua in the Clare Museum
A free lunchtime Traditional Music Concert, starting at 1 pm featuring Niamh Parsons, Graham Dunne, Mick Kinsella and Josephine Marsh - Thursday, May 23rd 2013
Riches of Clare Traditional Music Concert for Fleadh Nua in the Clare Museum
A free lunchtime Traditional Music Concert, starting at 1 pm featuring Murty Ryan, John Kelly, Siobhán Peoples and Pat Marsh - Wednesday, May 22nd 2013
Riches of Clare Traditional Music Concert for Fleadh Nua in the Clare Museum
A free lunchtime Traditional Music Concert, starting at 1 pm featuring Padraig Rynne, Cillian King, Colm Delaney and Cillian Doheny. - 22nd May 2013
“Taste of Africa” event at Áras Contae an Chláir
To mark the 50th anniversary of Africa Day, which is officially celebrated annually on 25th May, there will be a “taste of Africa” event held at the HQ of Clare County Council, Áras Contae an Chláir, from 12.30-1.30pm. Festivities will include samples of African food and entertainment with African music. For more information please phone Clare County Council at 065-6821616. - 23rd May 2013
MovieLAND
X-PO, Kilnaboy, Corofin.
8pm start. No Charge. Tea, biscuits and chat. - 19th – 27th May 2013
Fleadh Nua Festival Ennis
There are many Irish traditional festivals organised throughout the summer months but there are few people who will dispute that Fleadh Nua which started in Dublin in 1970, is the forerunner of them all. The concept of bringing together concerts, céilithe, music, song and dancing workshops, street entertainment, pageants/parades and much more was innovative in its time. However, it's still a winning formula today as evidenced by the thousands of visitors who flock to the festival every May for a week of unsurpassed traditional entertainment.
Contact: Fleadh Nua Office, Cois na hAbhna, Ennis 00353 65 6824276
Email: ceoltrad@eircom.net, www.fleadhnua.com - 19th May 2013
Opening SPUD installation event Deirdre O’Mahony
X-PO, Kilnaboy, Corofin. 12.30 – 2.30 pm
Potato Cakes and Potato stories. All welcome. SPUD event at X-PO flagging the forthcoming SPUD project and celebrating the creation of two ‘Lazy beds’ of potatoes at X-PO by Tom Keating and Michael Malone. SPUD is a new project which is a collaboration between Deirdre O’Mahony, artists Nadege Merieu (London) and Frances Whitehead (Chicago), X-PO (Kilnaboy) and Grizedale Arts, (Cumbria). The project is a reflection on sustainability, food security, changing landscapes and rural/urban relationships and will use a mix of processes to make visible the relevance of rural tacit cultivation knowledge to urban publics today. - 18th May 2013
Seol Sionna Traditional Boating Festival, Querrin
Currach racing and boating at Querrin Pier. Contact Trea Heapes, 00353 86 3819216
trea.heapes@gmail.com, www.loophead.ie - 18th May 2013
Clare Association Annual Dinner, Ennistymon
Music by the Kilfenora Céilí Band at the Falls Hotel. We hope that for this special night you will have your own “Gathering” of family and friends from home and abroad so come and join us on this great occasion. Contact Gerry O’Reilly, 00353 86 8498192, gcoreilly@eircom.net, www.clareassociationdublin.com - 17th – 19th May 2013
Burren Slow Food Festival, Lisdoonvarna
Showcasing the unique and excellent variety of local produce in the area. Cookery demos, farmers market, kids food, symposium, food talks, gala dinner & lots more. Contact Birgitta Hedin Curtin 00353 65 7074432, slowfoodclare@gmail.com, www.slowfoodclare.com - 14th May, 2013
The Lost Foundary; Bronze Casting in the Burren.
X-PO, Kilnaboy, Corofin.
Talk by Colin Johnson. 8pm. Free. - 11th May 2013
International Youth Theatre, Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
Voyage of the Orphans has engaging drama activities including a text reading on the Famine and migration, which will be improvised and discussed. This drama workshop is aimed at ll - 14 year old children. Booking is advised. Commences at 4pm. This will be followed at 6pm by the production of the Voyage of the Orphans. This is the poignant true story of the 4000 Irish famine orphans who were forcibly transported from Irish workhouses to Australia between 1848 and 1850. Followed at 7pm by An Fear Gorta written and performed by Eleanor Feely. This is an energetic and deeply moving piece of theatre that evokes one woman's desperate efforts to find meaning during the horror of the Famine. This will be followed by Clare Youth Theatre's production of Hubis. All events are free of charge. Contact Kilkee Box Office (065) 9060769 & kilkeeboxoffice@clarelibrary.ie - Saturday 11th May 2013
Course on Clay Oven Building,
The Farmyard, Gort road, Corofin, Co. Clare.
Time: 10am – 5pm
Booking essential
Cost: €60 (€20 deposit)
Phone: 065 6798030 / 087 7413618 - Friday 10th May 2013
Ireland Australia 1913-2013: O’Loughlin Clan Gathering event, Ennistymon.
One of the main clan events for this Irish Year of the Gathering is being celebrated at Ennistymon school on Friday 10th May 2013, when John Miller, Catherine Henningsen and Pam Vaughan from South Australia gather to celebrate their O’Loughlin ancestors who departed from the Ennistymon area in November 1841, leaving on board The Thetis from Cobh (Queenstown), Cork. One of their Australian ancestors, Laurence O’Loughlin became a pioneer farmer in the Pinnaroo district of South Australia and he visited Ennistymon during May 1913, when Speaker of the South Australian parliament, accompanied by his wife, Frances. Laurence met with an Ennistymon cousin during his May 1913 tour of County Clare and John, Pam and Catherine will return to Ennistymon this year to rekindle those memories for Ennistymon schoolchildren and to glance through the many memorial threads which this emigration story has woven from 1841 to 1913, and from 1995 through to May 2013. - 9th – 16th May 2013
The Burren Tolkien Symposium
The Burren Tolkien Symposium will be hosted in the Burren with film screenings, writers, workshops, lectures, Burren inspiration walks, and networking events for Tolkien Fans. Competitions and lots of fun events included. Contact Peter Curtin, 00353 87 8300069. burrentolkiensociety@gmail.com. www.burrentolkiensociety.ie - 7th – 24th May 2013
Forty Years behind the Lens – An exhibition by photographer and cameraman Godfrey Graham.
County Museum, Ennis
In ‘Behind the Lens’ Godfrey Graham recalls his childhood in Dublin, his love for photography and film, how we borrowed a camera to film the official opening of Telefís Éireann, and his luck break getting a job with the station at its founding in 1961.He saw at first hand the changes in Ireland, Europe, Africa and America, as well as meeting some of the world’s most famous (and infamous) politicians, authors and entertainers. The exhibition is a fascinating account of the life, times and memories of a cameraman at home and abroad, as he witnessed the evolutionary changes around the world through the lens of his camera. Some of the people he met and worked with included Patrick Kavanagh, Robert Mitchum, Louis le Brocquey. Along the way he encountered politicians such as Charles Haughey and Nicolae Caeusescu as well as movie stars Lauren Bacall and Siobhán McKenna. A selection of some of his best photographs, which have been acquired by The National Photographic Archive in Dublin, will illustrate the talent of this great cameraman. The exhibition is on display as part of the Bealtaine Festival, celebrating Creativity in Older Age. - 5th May 2013
Famine Film Screenings,
Culturlann Sweeney, Kilkee.
2 short films set in Irish workhouses at the time of the famine, 'A Room In Air' was filmed in the auxiliary workhouse in Ballyvaughan in 2012 and attempts to explore in a symbolic manner, the way in which the Famine affected the Irish people
'Poorhouse' is based on a short story by Michael Harding. It follows the course of an old man's relationship with a young woman who is taken ill and brought to the workhouse. Films not suitable for under 18 years of age.
Contact Box Office 2pm - 5pm (065)9060769 boxofficecs@gmail.com - Sun 5th May
International Dawn Chorus Day walk with Gordon D’Arcy.
Ballyvaughan Meeting at Village stores at 5.45am. Optional champagne breakfast in Logues Lodge afterwards €15. - Sun 5th May
Burren in Bloom festival launch
Ballyvaughan at 2.30pm
Launch followed by Lismorahaun singers and walk on ‘Bells across the Burren’ trail led by Fiona Linnane. Meet at Newtown Castle, Burren College of Art. - 4th - 5th May 2013
175th Anniversary Doora Parish Gathering
Doora Parish Church 175th and School 50th anniversaries. Allowing visitors trace and re-acquaint themselves with their ancestors past. Contact Gearoid Kennedy 00353 87 8075031, gearoid@kpmgroup.ie - May 3rd - 12th 2013
National Famine Commemoration
Kilrush and West Clare area
A series of events to make the national famine culminating in the National Famine Commemoration Ceremony in Kilrush on May 12th, 2013, led by President Michael D. Higgins.
Brochure with full list of events... - 3rd - 6th May 2013
Whitegate May Bank Holiday Festival
Enjoy the first days of Summer in East Clare with pony racing, nature walks, music and the Dinny Ryan Cup, 10km roadraces, singing sessions, food, music, lots of quality entertainment. Something fun for everyone, all ages welcome. whitegate2020@gmail.com, www.whitegate.ie - Sunday 5th May 2013
Garden Fete / Family Fun Day at the Farmyard, 12 – 6pm
As part of the Festival of Finn weekend celebrations that renowned Farmyard Activity Farm and Tea rooms will host a Garden Fete / Family Fun Day. Situated 3 miles outside Corofin on the Gort road (R460) the Farmyard is the ideal location for a fun filled day’s entertainment. Our timetable of activities will include Sheep and Goat Racing, Teddy Bears picnic, Dance lessons, Gardening demonstration, Children’s Dog show, Face-painting, Wildlife talk with the infamous Hedgehog “ Bramble” from the RTE show Elev8, Story –telling , Mini outdoor Market, et etc. Admission is €7 per adult or child. Family ticket (2 adults plus 2 children) €25 + €5 for each additional child. Children under 2 are free. Opening hours 12 – 6pm Sunday the 5th of May. For more details on this and other events at the Farmyard please see our website on www.thefarmyard.ie or contact Darragh on info@thefarmyard.ie / 065 6798030. - 3rd - 6th May 2013
Father Ted Festival, Kilfenora
A festival celebrating all things Father Ted, taking place in the real locations from the
series. Contact Janet Cavanagh 00353 87 6277000, info@tedtours.com, www.tedtours.com, www.facebook.com/fathertedfestivalkilfenora2013 - 3rd - 5th May 2013
Burren Law School, Ballyvaughan
A stimulating weekend of discussion, using the ancient learning of Brehon Law to illuminate current issues; of interest to the general public, as well as the legal, caring, and academic professions. 00353 65 7077200, info@burrenlawschool.org, www.burrenlawschool.org - 3rd - 5th May 2013
Carrigaholt Oyster & Music Festival
Enjoy fresh oysters, a nice pint of Guinness or a glass of champagne. Music and dance. Angling competition. Activities for all the family. 00353 65 9058106, tony@thelongdock.com, www.loophead.ie - 2nd - 6th May 2013
Festival of Finn, Corofin
A week-end of family fun, street music, competitions, sports events and much more.
Contact enquiries@festivaloffinn.com & see www.festivaloffinn.com & www.facebook.com/FestivalOfFinnCorofin - Month of May 2013
Burren in Bloom
Illustrated talks and organised walks throughout the month of May.
Email: info@burreninbloom.com
Telephone: +353 (0)65 7077 464
http://www.burreninbloom.com/ - May 2013 (dates to be confirmed)
JRR Tolkien Burren Symposium
Lisdoonvarna & Ballyvaughan. Lectures, film screenings and writers workshops. - 1st-31st May
Reminiscence Therapy Visits to celebrate the Bealtaine Festival
Clare County Library visits Carrigoran Day Centre, Cahercalla Nursing Home and Mowlam Healthcare Nursing Home, Kilrush.
To celebrate the Bealtaine Festival Clare County Library will visit Day Care and Community Centres and Nursing Homes around the county during the month of May with a selection of material from the Local Studies Library, including Clare Champion newspapers from times past, old photographs and books containing local interest material. Extracts will be read and discussed, evoking memories of times past and sparking lively debate on events that took place in the locality years before. This service allows the library to bring part of its valuable collection to people who are often not in a position to visit their local library. Centres scheduled for visits in May include Carrigoran Day Centre, Cahercalla Nursing Home and Mowlam Healthcare Nursing Home, Kilrush.
- 30th April – 3rd May 2013
Forty Years behind the Lens – An exhibition by photographer and cameraman Godfrey Graham
DeValera Library, Ennis
In ‘Behind the Lens’ Godfrey Graham recalls his childhood in Dublin, his love for photography and film, how we borrowed a camera to film the official opening of Telefís Éireann, and his luck break getting a job with the station at its founding in 1961.He saw at first hand the changes in Ireland, Europe, Africa and America, as well as meeting some of the world’s most famous (and infamous) politicians, authors and entertainers. The exhibition is a fascinating account of the life, times and memories of a cameraman at home and abroad, as he witnessed the evolutionary changes around the world through the lens of his camera. Some of the people he met and worked with included Patrick Kavanagh, Robert Mitchum, Louis le Brocquey. Along the way he encountered politicians such as Charles Haughey and Nicolae Caeusescu as well as movie stars Lauren Bacall and Siobhán McKenna. A selection of some of his best photographs, which have been acquired by The National Photographic Archive in Dublin, will illustrate the talent of this great cameraman. Some images from the exhibition will be on display in the DeValera Library, Ennis as part of the Bealtaine Festival, celebrating Creativity in Older Age. - 30th April 2013
Forty Years behind the Lens - A talk by photographer and cameraman Godfrey Graham
DeValera Public Library, Ennis
In ‘Behind the Lens’ Godfrey Graham recalls his childhood in Dublin, his love for photography and film, how we borrowed a camera to film the official opening of Telefís Éireann, and his luck break getting a job with the station at its founding in 1961.He saw at first hand the changes in Ireland, Europe, Africa and America, as well as meeting some of the world’s most famous (and infamous) politicians, authors and entertainers. The lecture promises to be fascinating account of the life, times and memories of a cameraman at home and abroad, as he witnessed the evolutionary changes around the world through the lens of his camera. It features many amusing stories of people he met and worked with such as Patrick Kavanagh, Robert Mitchum, Louis le Brocquey. Along the way he encountered politicians such as Charles Haughey and Nicolae Caeusescu as well as movie stars Lauren Bacall and Siobhán McKenna. A selection of some of his best photographs, which have been acquired by The National Photographic Archive in Dublin, will illustrate the talent of this great cameraman. Some images from the exhibition will be on display in the DeValera Library, Ennis from April 30th – May 3rd and the full exhibition will then transfer to the County Museum from May 7th – 25th as part of the Bealtaine Festival, celebrating Creativity in Older Age. - 28th April 2013
Clare Youth Theatre presents Leaving/Hubris/Wyrd Sisters
Glor, Ennis 8pm.
Clare Youth Theatre present their annual production featuring 'Leaving' by Gerry Stembridge (directed by Nathalie Leahy) and devised works Hubris (from the Greek myths) and Wyrd Sisters (adapted from Terry Pratchett's novel). Fun, entertaining and challenging, see these local teenagers immerse themselves in the world of theatre. Tickets available from Glor: 065 6843103 - 28th April 2013
Going back to your roots - Clare Garden Festival
Ennis Showgrounds, Ennis
Clare Garden Festival aims to provide entertainment, information and education for all gardeners. Contact Carmen Cronin 00353 87 6117538, cc@carmencronin.ie, www.claregardenfestival.com - 27th – 28th April 2013
Lahinch Seaworld Fun Weekend
Lahinch Seaworld is hosting a Fun Weekend in aid of The William Winder Foundation, The Brothers of Charity and The No Name Club on April 27 and 28! The weekend will include a wide range of activities for all ages: from the Eliminator challenge, zorbing, fitness classes, interactive aquarium tours, and a water polo league to an exploration dome, open mic contest and the launch of Seaworld's brand new cinema! Drop by, swim a mile, play some water polo, sing your heart out, and/or work up a sweat in boot camp, and support these worthy causes! For more information check out Lahinch Seaworld’s Facebook Page. - 24th April - 29th April 2013
Kilfenora Music Festival
Celebrating the achievements of the Kilfenora Céilí Band over the past 105 years as well as song and dance in this famous music village of North Clare. Contact John Morgan, 00353 87 6896600, jvmorgan1@eircom.net, www.kilfenoraclare.com - 19th & 20th April 2013
8th Earth Day Aughty Gathering in Crusheen
Heritage Inchicronan are pleased to announce that Slógadh Eachtaí 2013: Inse Chrónáin is taking place at the Community Centre, Crusheen, County Clare – with Registration at 9.15 a.m. on the above dates. The theme for 2013 is Sharing Awareness. Michael Starrett, Chief Executive of the Heritage Council, will open Slógadh Eachtaí 2013 with a keynote talk entitled Our Irish Landscape - Sharing Knowledge and Understanding Place. Tim Collins will speak of his research on the Traditional Music, Song and Dance of Sliabh Aughty. Ardán/Platform' takes place in the afternoon and will consist of short presentations by community organisations and invited guests. A focus on the soundscape of the region takes place on Friday night (19th April) with a Singers’ Session in the Village of Ballinruan which starts at 9.00 p.m. in Hassett's Bar. Slógadh Eachtaí 2013: Inse Chrónáin will finish with a celebration of the Music and Musicians, performed in Fogarty's Bar and the Highway in Crusheen, commencing from around 5.00 p.m. 20th April. Admission is Free. Contact: Ruth Ní Shiadhail / Anne O'Doherty Email: slogadheachtai@gmail.com Web: http://www.aughty.org - 12th - 14th April 2013
Tom Carey Commemorative Weekend, Cree
The Tom Carey Commemorative Weekend celebrates the late great concertina player Tom Carey and is a wonderful reunion of musicians and friends. Contact Deirdre Comber or Collette McMahon, 00353 87 6735172 or 00353 87 6684745, pcom@eircom.net - 10th April 2013
National Famine Commemoration Public Meeting - Kilrush Golf Club
Kilrush will host the main 2013 National Famine Commemoration on Sunday 12th May 2013 and this is being preceded by 10 days of commemorations, remembrances and other cultural events that will take place in Kilrush and all over the West Clare area. The Kilrush Famine Commemoration Steering Group would like to meet the community and update them on the progress and plans made to date. They are also anxious to put in place a list of people who would like to be involved in the 10 days of commemorations/events in some way no matter how small. Please confirm your attendance to sgarvey@clarecoco.ie before Tuesday 9th April 2013. - 7th April 2013
‘The folklore and legends of Slievenaglasha Mountain’ with Patrick McCormack, Burrenbeo Trust April Walk. 2pm at the layby of Glencolumkill Hill, on Carron-Boston road (OS51 N309 W998).
Join us for April’s Burrenbeo Trust Walk led by Patrick McCormack who has an in-depth knowledge of the folklore, the legends, the history and the culture of time bygone in the Carron Hills. Patrick himself is a poet, an organic farmer and part of the Farm Heritage Coop Tours. The walk will continue down to his house, better known as the ‘Father Ted’ house where people will have the chance to have a cuppa after a good walk. There will be a €5 charge per person for the optional tea and scones. Walk starts at 2pm from the layby of Glencolumkill Hill, on Carron-Boston road (OS51 N309 W998). This walk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €5 is suggested from non-members. This walk is off-road so please wear the right shoes, be of reasonable fitness and bring waterproofs if needed. For more information please email trust@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096. - 5th - 7th April 2013
Loop Head Walking Festival
Join us to walk the stunning coastal paths of Loop Head. Walks include Loop Head
and Kilcredaun circuits, Kilkee heritage walk and Clifftop dawn walks. Walks to suit all
age groups. Contact Trea Heapes, 00353 86 3819216, trea.heapes@gmail.com, www.loophead.ie - April 2nd to April 6th 2013
"The Gathering of the Scattering" - The Clare Roots Family History Conference, Ennis
The Conference will take place at the Temple Gate Hotel in Ennis, Co.Clare, Ireland.
See http://www.clareroots.org/index.php/claregenconf2013 for details.
Contact: Clara Hoyne, Clare Roots Society Secretary, secretary@clareroots.org
- 31st March 2013
Stephen Roche Atlantic Challenge
80km and 40km Leisure Cycle with legendary cyclist Stephen Roche through the Burren. Starts on the beachfront in Lahinch. Contact Alan Murphy, 00353 87 7854848, info@stephenrocheac.com. www.stephenrocheac.com - Saturday 30th, Sunday 31st and Monday 1st of April
Easter Family days
The Farmyard, Gort road, Corofin, Co. Clare.
Time: 12-6pm
Non Booked Event. Our packed timetable of Activities include: Easter egg Hunt with guest appearance, Sheep & Goat Racing, Make an Easter Bonnet with best Bonnet competition, Pet Care Workshop, Face Painting, Art sale in Aid of Clare Crusaders, Mini games, Make a bird feeder. And much more….
Cost: €7 per person or €25 for family of four Phone: 065 6798030 / 087 7413618 - March 29th & 30th
The Loves of Cass McGuire, Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
Amphitheatre present Brian Friel's much applauded play. For over 50 years Cass McGuire has worked a block from Skid Row in New York among the dropouts, failures and people whol ive in the past. She returns to Ireland to try to re-discover the home she has dreamed of all her life. When she disrupts her genteel family they reject her and put her in a nursing home. It deals with her struggle to come to terms with her situation and her eventual surrender to the make believe world of the nursing home. Doors open 7.30pm. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets €10, €8 (OAP & students) & €5 under 12's. Booking at 065 9060769 or available on the door. - Thursday 28th March 2013
Michael Joyce & Sabine Ducot in concert, Glór, Ennis.
Concert in Glór, Ennis, on Thursday with Michael Joyce (a fabulous pianist, who used to teach in Ennis) and Sabine Ducot. There is also the opportunity for master classes on the same day with either Michael or Sabine. If you know anyone who is interested in taking a master class, please contact Gemma Carcaterra at gemma@glor.ie or 065 6845370 - Wednesday 27th March 2013
“Je ne Sais Quoi” - a French Evening At the Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon, at 8pm.
Our aim is to speak some French (afterwards with a glass of wine) and watch a movie – “Les Choristes“. The new teacher at a severely administered boys' boarding school works to positively effect the students' lives through music. €3 on the door. - Tuesday 26th March 2013
Our daily bread: food and drink in medieval Irish monasteries
A North Clare Historical Society Lecture by Colmán Ó Clabaigh OSB, at 8pm in Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon.
Admission €5. Colmán Ó Clabaigh is a Benedictine monk of Glenstal Abbey, County Limerick and a specialist in the history of monastic and religious orders in medieval Ireland. His publications include works on medieval Irish Benedictine monks, Franciscan friars, hermits and anchorites, Augustinian Canons, Nuns and the Knights Templars and Hospitallers. His most recent publication, The Friars in Ireland, 1224-1540, was published in April, 2012. He is currently researching a chapter on the Church in Medieval Ireland for inclusion in the forthcoming three-volume Cambridge History of Ireland. His talk 'Our daily bread: food and drink in medieval Irish monasteries' will explore the manner in which religious produced and consumed food in late medieval Ireland. - 25th March 2013
Traditional Horse Fair, Kilrush
Contact Kilrush Town Council, 00353 65 9051047, www.kilrush.ie - March 22nd – 31st 2013
Clare Drama Festival, Scarriff
Prior to the first Drama Festival in 1947, a Drama Féis was held for four consecutive years [1943-1946]. With the exception of 2001 the Committee have organized a Drama Festival every year. From its humble beginnings, in an age of paraffin lamps, dry batteries and simple double-sided sets, and at a time when local groups simply went out "to do a play", the Festival has developed into one of the foremost showpieces of the amateur drama movement in Ireland. The venue for the 1949 festival was the newly opened Astor Cinema, Scariff, where it was held until 1985. The festival was moved to Scariff Community College Hall in 1986 and has been there since.
Contact: Doreen Hanley 087 2686764 - 22nd – 23rd March 2013
Burren Spring Gathering – ‘Between Place and Space: New Perspectives on the Burren’
Killinaboy National School., Killinaboy, County Clare.
This event marks a change in the very successful annual Burren Spring Conference. This year it is hosted by X-PO Killinaboy and programmed by Dr. Deirdre O’Mahony, artist, founder of “X-PO” and Lecturer at GMIT. The early days of the Burren Spring Conference took place ‘on the ground’ walking the Burren and sharing knowledge about the monuments and heritage of the area. Initially seen as a forum for archeologists about sites in the Burren, the event has changed over the years. Last year, there was a review of the Burren Spring Conference. Responding to suggestions by participants it was decided to remove “Conference” from the title and replace it with “Gathering” and include the entire region by moving it to a different Burren location each year. Each location will have its own local committee and focus on its particular specialities. Click here for the Brochure and click here for the Press Release. - Friday, 22nd March, 2013
A discussion on “A Changing Society 2008 – 2013”
Temple Gate Hotel, Ennis, Co. Clare, 9.30 a.m.to 1.00 p.m.
Alliance of Social Protection of Recipients (ASPR) with Clare Citizen Information Service are hosting the above discussion with guest speakers: Michael McNamara TD., Member of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe - Changes in the Welfare State in Europe over 5 years; Paul Woulfe, Manager of Citizen Information Services - Changes in Client’s needs and new demands; Denis Corbett, Co-Ordinator of MABS - Changes in Personal Debt, its Impact and Recovery. (Break) Prof. Kathleen Lynch, Equality Studies Centre, UCD School of Social Justice - How Ireland is becoming a Careless State: the rise of neoliberalism and its Impact on Inequality; Louis Faye, Manager of St. Francis Credit Union, Credit Availability – Credit Unions in the Community; Siobhan O’Donoghue, Migrant Rights Centre Ire., Transforming Society – Challenges and Opportunities; Madeline McAleer – Lessons from the Day. Chair: Dermot Hayes, ASPR 086-3157591/087-9573690. Free Event – IT’S FOR YOU. - 20th March, 2013
‘Trees of the Banner: identification, functions, planting & folklore’ with Janice Fuller.
A Burrenbeo Trust winter talk, 8.30pm @ Tubber Village Hall.
Janice is a professional ecologist with a particular interest in communicating ecology, and making the link between biodiversity and community development. She is the author of Buds of the Banner – a guide to growing native trees & scrubs in County Clare and The ABC of trees, hedgerows and development which highlights the importance of trees and hedgerows and is a guide on how to protect and integrate them in developments. Spring is a perfect time of the year for this talk. This will be the final talk of the current series. This talk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and €5 from non-members. For more information please email trust@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096. - March 20th 2013
University of Limerick Information Evening, Old Ground Hotel, Ennis
The University of Limerick has a range of opportunities and advice on offer whether you are applying through CAO, Mature Students or exploring your further education opportunities through FETAC entry. Out staff will be available to answer your questions and provide advice and guidance as well as information on a wide range of scholarships from 4 – 8pm. For further info contact the Admissions Office 061 202015, admissions@ul.ie. - 16th – 18th March 2013
St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, Clarecastle
Puppet show on the story of St Patrick, face painting, pony and cart rides, singing and colouring competitions and lots more. Contact Eddie Connors 00353 65 6841552 or 00353 87 4000393. info@imecofarm.com - 16th – 17th March 2013
Killaloe and Ballina St. Patrick’s Weekend
Ballina and Killaloe celebrate their rich cultural heritage with a Brian Ború themed weekend as part of this year’s extended St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Concerts and performances will compliment the parade. Contact Paddy Collins 00353 87 2615406 info@feilebrianboru.com, www.feilebrianboru.com - 16th March 2013
Cliffs of Moher 5 Miler Charity Run for baby Nicholas Memorial.
Charity Run starting and finishing at the Cliffs of Moher. Entertainment and refreshments provided. Start time 11am. 20 euro per participant. 00353 65 7086141, info@cliffsofmoher.ie - March 16th, 2013
Come here till I tell you - Killaloe! A Listening Room Experience
Killaloe Family Resource Centre.
Hear memories from the Cuimhneamh an Chláir Folklore Archive and attend the official launch of the Killaloe Oral History and Folklore Community Education Programme (Funded by Clare VEC) at 6pm. Hear the voices of some of Clare’s oldest citizens, with recollections of a fading way of life in Clare. Audio samples have been selected audio from over five hundred interviews for this special event. Memories of the Shannon Scheme, the Banshee, old trades, farming in the old days, house dances and lots more. Stephen McKeogh will be working with Cuimhneamh an Chláir over the coming months in developing the Killaloe Oral History and Folklore Community Education Programme For more information on the Killaloe Oral History and Folklore CommunityEducation Programme contact Stephen McKeogh at mckeogh.stephen@gmail.com. For more info on Cuimhneamh an Chláir see www.clarememories.ie. - 14th – 23rd March 2013
Clare Drama Festival, Scariff
Enjoy a series of excellent plays. Doors open, 7.45pm. Curtain nightly, 8.30pm. Doors open final night at 7.15pm. Curtain final night, 8.00pm. Admission: adults 8 euro, children & senior citizens 5 euro, season ticket 60 euro. Contact Doreen Hanley, 00353 87 2686764. - 11th March - 11th April 2013
Anon is Anall, Glór, Ennis
“Anon is Anall” examines traditional Irish music in a visual art context, believing that the cultural identity of a people is reflected through their traditional music. This event will exhibit painting, prints & sculpture together with an audio/visual digital display. Contact Carmel Doherty 00353 86 8207370, www.anonisanall.com - Saturday 9th March 2013
Fund raiser for Inagh school, from 11am to 5pm
Health and Wellness day in Inagh National School. A chance to treat yourself to a Body Mind Balancing, Rahanni or Reiki treatment. Treatments can be booked at school phone 065 6836778. Treatments are 20min. at €10 per treatment. This fundraiser is open everyone of all ages. There will be a free talk and class of Tai Chi at 5.00 in school. - 9th March 2013
International Women’s Day Celebration, Scariff
10am - 2pm. Celebrate in the company of women this special day with singing, creative writing, painting, yoga & meditation in East Clare Community Co-op’s Green room. Contact Fionnuala Collins, 00353 61 921 536, eastclarecoop@gmail.com. - 8th - 10th March 2013
Sets By The Sea, Spanish Point
Céilithe, seisiún, country/social dancing & workshops throughout the weekend together
with an array of dancing, music & songs for your entertainment. Contact Tina, Bellbridge House Hotel 00353 65 7084038, info@bellbridgehotelclare.com - 8th March, 2013 – 1 p.m.
to 2 p.m.
‘Join me on the Bridge’
Bank Place bridge, Ennis, Co. Clare
‘Join me on the Bridge’ is the coming together of women and men around the world, united in taking a stand for PEACE and women’s EQUALITY. Now in its fourth year, the Join me on the Bridge campaign started in 2010 when women from the Congo and Rwanda joined together on the bridge connecting their two countries, showing that they could build the bridges of peace and hope for the future. This action sparked a massive global movement, and last year they were joined by thousands of people on hundreds of bridges worldwide. On International Women's Day, 8 March, thousands of people will show that they are with the women of Afghanistan, Iraq, Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan and other war-torn countries. Now is the time for women around the world to unite in building bridges, joining on bridges and celebrating what is possible on bridges. Stronger women are building the bridges of peace for our future. With your support we will be even stronger. - Friday, March 8th, 2013
Wild Winds – A theatre and music piece by Eleanor Feely and Etain McCooey
Cultúrlann Sweeney, O’Connell Street, Kilkee
Celebrate International Women's Day with a theatrical exploration of the literary landscapes of Yeats, Joyce, Synge and O'Casey and the women who inspired them. Written and performed by musician Etain McCooey and actress Eleanor Feely. Tickets are €8 / €6 concession and are now on sale from Cultúrlann Sweeney. They can be booked in advance on 065 9060769 or emailing cst@clarelibrary.ie. Find Cultúrlann Sweeney on facebook or follow us at @CSTKilkee on Twitter. - Friday 8th March 2013
Dreamtime, Revisited. A Walkabout in Dreamtime Ireland with Poet & Philosopher John Moriarty (1938 – 2007). The Courthouse Gallery, Parliament Street, Ennistymon at 8pm. Anú Pictures Presents A Reel Art Film Funded by The Arts Council / An Chomhairle Ealaíon. A Film By Dónal Ó Céilleachair & Julius Ziz. Music by Peadar Ó Riada. - 7th March to 2nd April, 2013
Continuum Exhibition
Gallery, Scarriff Library, Co. Clare
Continuum is an exhibition by a group of recent art college graduates from Clare, Galway, Offaly and West Meath. The exhibition explores the reflective changes in their work, now that they are free from the influence and institution of college. Each participant will exhibit both a piece of work from their college days and a recent one, so as to give an insight into the distance they have travelled, as they try to forge a path as artists in their own right. For some the journey may represent freedom, for others abandonment from the stability of college. The show should provide an interesting collection of viewing, as it displays the many different currents being traversed. Artists taking part are: Caroline Egan, Nathalie El Baba, Phyllis Haran, Aileen Kavanagh, Catherine Keneally, Patricia Lysaght, Mark McLoughlin, Elaine O'Shaughnessy, Patsy Preston, Elaine Quinlan, Sheila Quinn, Mary Ryan, Emma Stewart-Liberty. Event is Free. Contact info: 087 615 9466 - 5th March to 30th April, 2013
Painting Exhibition by Paul Weeraskera
At Foyer of the Clare Museum, Ennis, Co. Clare
Paul Weeraskera is an artist based in Limerick for over twenty five years. He trained in the UK as an architect and in the area of art and design. His work is mainly acrylic on canvas. Over his twenty year career as an artist he has sold many paintings, both in Ireland and in the USA and is regularly commissioned by clients. His work features in Clare County Council’s art collection. Paul’s exhibition features paintings of Irish landscapes and recent events (such as the Volvo Ocean Race in Galway) as well as famous local and international scenes. For further information go to
http://www.paul-weerasekera.artistwebsites.com/ Contact: paulstudio2000@yahoo.co.uk - 4th - 7th March 2013
Seachtain na Gaeilge
Ceardlanna, ceolchoirmeacha, céilithe, filíocht, agus imeachtaí scoile chun úsáid
na Gaeilge a spreagadh sa Chontae. Fáilte roimh gach duine.
www.snag.ie - 3rd March, 2013
‘Grazing and Gazing - winterage and stunning views over the Burren’ with Shane Casey, a Burrenbeo Trust walk. 2pm at Cappanawalla Cross (turn here and continue for c.1km) 51M 214 083. March’s Burrenbeo Trust walk will be led by Shane Casey. Growing up on his family’s farm on Blackhead gave Shane a great education on the Burren and its ecology. He went on to study Agricultural and Environmental Science in UCD, followed by Rural Development, focusing on target market analysis for Burren lamb as his dissertation. Before his current position as Clare Biodiversity Officer, Shane worked as an agricultural and environmental advisor in south Galway, and then as a social research officer with Clare County Council. His current role involves education and awareness of biodiversity, both within and beyond the Burren. The walk will take us up Cappanawalla mountain to have a closer look at the upland winterage. There are great views from the top - bring your cameras! This walk will include quite a steep climb. Walk starts at 2pm from Cappanawalla. This walk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €5 is suggested from non-members. Please bring good walking shoes and waterproofs if needed. For more information please email trust@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096. - March 1st - 3rd 2013
Ennis Book Club Festival
The Ennis Book Club Festival is a wonderful social and literary gathering bringing together book club members and readers from Ireland and beyond. The festival includes author readings, discussions, workshops and walking tours through the narrow streets and lanes of Ennis. We offer sessions on running book clubs, advice on reading lists, poetry, events as Gaeilge, and an opportunity to compare notes and meet with other readers. Combine your love of reading with a great weekend away! Speakers confirmed for March 2013 include Marina Lewycka, John Banville, the BBC's Fergal Keane, David Norris, Michael Harding, Conor Brady, Mary O'Rourke, Aine Lawlor, Belinda Jack, Michael Smith, Royal Shakespeare Company's Education Department, Elaine Byrne, Tony Curtis, Margaret Hickey, Kate Bateman, Anne McCabe, and the Clare Three Legged Stool Poets. - Friday, March 1st, 2013
John Spillane Concert
Cultúrlann Sweeney, O’Connell Street, Kilkee
Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee’s gem of a little theatre, is delighted to kick off it’ season with the inimitable and hugely popular two time meteor award winner, JOHN SPILLANE. John is a musician, songwriter, performer, recording artist, storyteller, poet, dreamer - a canvass filled with color and brilliance. His music transports the listener; his live performance captivates the audience. In a world filled with strife and upheaval, a time-out with John Spillane is enough to ease the load a bit on anyone lucky enough to bask in his light. The man and his music are pure magic. What makes John special is that he is an artist who knows how to deliver all that he has to offer to anyone of any age, male or female, no matter the musical preference. Place him in the genre of folk, acoustic, traditional, world or pop - that’s fine with John. He’s a man who is very comfortable in his skin. Whether performing solo with guitar, with gentle accompaniment or with full band before 10, 10,000 or 100,000, John entertains, charms, and mesmerizes.
Tickets are €18 / €16 concession and are now on sale from Cultúrlann Sweeney. They can be booked in advance on 065 9060769 or emailing cst@clarelibrary.ie. Find Cultúrlann Sweeney on facebook or follow us at @CSTKilkee on Twitter.
- 25th February – 3rd March 2013
Corofin Trad Festival
Traditional Music with various sessions in the local pubs and a cConcert nightly in Teach Ceoil.
e-mail: info@corofintradfest.com
www.corofintradfest.com - February 22nd - 25th 2013
Russell Memorial Weekend
The Russell Memorial Weekend is a traditional festival held in Doolin on the the last full weekend in February each year. The festival began in 1995 as a remembrance ceremony to Micho Russell, the world-famous traditional musician, who died in 1994. In 2006 by request of the Russell family the festival was renamed the Russell Memorial Weekend in memory of the three Russell brothers, Micho, Packie, and Gussie.
http://www.michorussellweekend.ie/ - Wed 20th February 2013
Burrenbeo Trust talk ‘Prehistoric Pilgrimage in the Burren – Modern Myth or Prehistoric Reality?’ with Michael Gibbons will take place in Tubber Village Hall, 8.30pm. All welcome. Michael Gibbons is one of Ireland's leading field archaeologists, a writer, broadcaster and mountaineer. This talk will look at prehistoric pilgrimage and archaeology in the Burren in the context of other Irish sites. Michael will draw on work he has done on the Skelligs, Croagh Patrick, Slieve League and elsewhere, which will set the Burren in a wider context. trust@burrenbeo.com or 091 638096 for more info. Admission 5 euros, members free. - 16th February – 7th March 2013
New Paintings and Drawings in the Courthouse Gallery by John Cullen and Leonard Graham.
The upcoming exhibition of new paintings and drawings at the Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon, will feature 'Looking at the Stars' , by Leonard Graham and 'Dystopia' John Cullen. Leonard's works are very spontaneous and almost primitive in their application. He wants to simplify drawing right down to its base form. John Cullen's paintings are inspired by the distressed images of boxers’ faces. Leonard Graham was born in Limerick and raised in Co. Clare. He graduated from Limerick School of Art in 2000 with a degree in fine art printmaking and a higher diploma in art teaching. He has had a variety of solo and group exhibitions in Ireland, England and on-line. He also teaches art and design in Cork and is currently working on a graphic novel due in 2014. John Cullen was born in London and is resident in Ireland since 1995. He lives and works in Sligo. He graduated from Sligo I.T in 2009 with a degree in Fine Art. Since then he had various solo and group exhibitions in Ireland. - 16th February – 7th March 2013
“Seeing the Burren”, an exhibition of new work by David Skinner, the Red Couch Space at the Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon. David Skinner presents a series of landscape paintings that focuses on the Burren area of County Clare. David Skinner is a Los Angeles-based artist who has exhibited extensively in the United States over the past twenty-five years in galleries and international art fairs. He is currently on a six-month art residency at the Burren College of Art and will exhibit his new paintings of Ireland in a solo show at the Elder Art Gallery in Charlotte, North Carolina, in the autumn. - Sat 16th February 2013
Burrenbeo Conservation Volunteers will be clearing more scrub at Fahee North, Carron, led by butterfly expert Jesmond Harding.
Contact Kate 091 638096 / volunteer@burrenbeo.com - Saturday, 16th February 2013
Lecture on the Banshee in Clare, Clare Museum
Continuing the Hidden Clare series of lectures at Clare Museum, well-known Clare folklorist Patricia Lysaght will give a talk titled ‘The Banshee, County Clare and the family connections’ on Saturday, 16th February. The lecture will begin at 2.30 pm at Clare Museum and Admission is Free. For further information contact John Rattigan, museum curator at 065-6823382. - Date: Thursday, 14th February, 2013
1 Billion Rising
From Ennis Courthouse at 5pm, through the streets and finishing at the Queen’s Hotel.
1 Billion Rising is an International Campaign for Women and those who love them to walk out, dance and raise the awareness about violence against women globally. One in Three Women on the Planet will be raped or beaten in her lifetime. One Billion Rising will move the earth, activating women and men across every country. We want the World to see our collective strength, our numbers, our solidarity across borders. In the Queen’s Hotel there will be a multicultural experience which will include Zumba, bellydancing, drumming, singing and hip hop. There will be various speakers from those working in the area of violence against women eg Mid-West Rape Crisis Centre & Clare Haven Services. A self-defence class demonstration will take place also. Rise up with One Billion Worldwide – Don’t be Silent. - Tuesday, 12 February 2013
The Talty millions: a genealogical journey from Miltown to Miami, an Old Kilfarboy Society talk,
the Malbay, Miltown Malbay.
The next meeting of the Old Kilfarboy Society will take place on Tuesday, 12 February at 8pm in the Malbay, Miltown Malbay and will feature a lecture by Paddy Waldron on the fascinating story of TJ Talty, who left Miltown for the US in the 1860s and died in Florida in 1926. TJ’s baptism on 12 December 1855 is recorded in Latin in the registers of Miltown Malbay, as Thadeus, youngest child of Timothy Talty and Margaret McNamara. He grew up between his parents' shop in Miltown Malbay and their small farm in Knockanalban (Mount Scot) outside the town. Around the mid-1860s, most of the family emigrated together to Massachusetts. From there, TJ later set out on the successful career as a hotel keeper which took him all around the US and eventually to Miami. This talk will trace TJ's travels around the U.S. and describe the process of tracing his heirs using the technologies of the 1920s and of the present day. - February 8th, 2013
'The Devil Mend Him' - Community Film
Rodgers Bar, Scariff
'The Devil Mend Him' is a community-based film project, shot on location in Dublin, Limerick and (mostly) in Clare. The story follows Billy (Neil Farrell) returning to his hometown in rural County Clare to find his Da (Ger Treacy), who has recently become a widower, is now a shell of a man. A mysterious lodger (Steve Lawrence) is laying claim to Billy's room and, indeed, Billy's life - as our protagonist struggles to find the compartments of his past, present and future where he's actually welcome. The film is one hour and twenty minutes in length, shot in HD. It features a cast of local amateur actors and graciously volunteered locations. The first preview screening will take place in Rodgers' Bar, Scariff on the 08th of February. - Tuesday 5th February 2013
Famine Commemoration Community Meeting
Kilrush Golf Club, 7pm
Kilrush has been selected as the host location for the main 2013 National Famine Commemoration. This is a huge achievement for not only Kilrush but the entire West Clare area and it is fully acknowledged that although Kilrush will be the host location for the main Commemoration, the entire West Clare area or Kilrush Poor Law Union as it was known was severely affected by the Famine and is very much part of this Commemoration. The main Commemoration is expected to take place during the month of May and will be preceded by a week long programme of commemorations with many remembrances taking place outside of Kilrush. A dedicated and experienced Steering Group has already been formed to manage the Commemoration along with a number of sub working groups dealing with different aspects to the commemorations/remembrances.We feel it is vital that each and every community group and parish in the West Clare area (Kilrush Poor Law Union) participates in these events and with this in mind we feel it most appropriate that the people of West Clare and in particular the community leaders and groups of the area have input and participate in proposed commemorations. To this end all are welcome to the “Famine Commemoration Community Meeting” on Tuesday 5th February 2013 at 7pm in Kilrush Golf Club. Please confirm your attendance to Siobhán Garvey (Email: sgarvey@clarecoco.ie) before Friday 1st February 2013 - February 4th - March 2nd, 2013
'Read Between The Lines' - Photography Exhibition by Gerald Dunne
Scariff Public Library
Gerald Dunne is a fine art printer and photographer and has been based in Quin, Co. Clare for the last 11 years after moving from South Wales. Painting and drawing increase in complexity as the artist works; his aim as a photographer is to increase the simplicity of his images whilst maintaining a visually satisfying image. The distillation of image is brought about by careful composition and concentrating on the essence of the subject rather than the more conventional photographic recording of a scene. For further information contact Gerald at: gerald@pixelbrush.ie 086 3840650 - 4th February 2013
Voice/Acting Master Class Workshop for youth theatre members
Rowan Tree, Ennis
A day course with Emmy winning Actor Writer and Film Maker - Alan Cooke from 11 - 4 featuring a 4 hour master class in all aspects of voice/acting/Shakespeare technique. Alan Cooke is an Emmy winning actor voice teacher writer and film maker for the last 14 years. He has appeared in stage productions all over Ireland and New York.
He won an Emmy for his film HOME with Liam Neeson Mike Myers and Woody Allen. He has written two novels and is developing a film of Ireland. He has taught privately and in groups holistic voice technique all over the world. www.wildirishpoet.com. Space is limited RSVP as soon as possible to Alan: 086 179 1410 alanmcooke@gmail.com or 086 179 1410 - Sunday 3rd Feb 2013
Improving your local bees - Third Annual Conference on Bee Improvement and Queen Rearing,
run by Banner Beekeepers Association, County Clare. Price €30.00.
‘Introducing Banner Frostbite Honey show’.
Venue: The Falls Hotel, Ennistymon, Co. Clare (only 20mins from Ennis). Registration from 8.30am.
Talks include: The importance of the drone in the hive; My experiences in beekeeping and queenrearing; Hive Alive, its future in beekeeping; Comments and tips on preparing honey for exhibition and sale; and The native Irish bee and its role in beekeeping. For conference booking contact: Frank Benson 086-8797225, burrenbees@gmail.com. For more info: www.bannerbeekeepers.com - 3rd February, 2013
‘Winter Visitors to Lough Murree’ with John Murphy - Burrenbeo Trust February Walk.
2pm at Flaggy Shore Carpark. 51M 124 274.
John Murphy is one of the country's foremost ornithologists and is a licensed bird ringer. A founder member of the Clare branch of Birdwatch Ireland, he is also a director of Waxwing Wildlife Productions, a film company which specialises in nature and wildlife documentaries. He has a keen interest in wildlife photography and his work has been published in many magazines and books. The walk will take us along the Flaggy Shore and the shores of Lough Murree, hopefully encountering some of the interesting ducks, divers and waders which make the area their home. Meeting time of 1.45pm at Flaggy Shore carpark and walk will begin at 2pm. This walk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €5 is suggested from non-members. Please bring good walking shoes and waterproofs if needed. Also bring binoculars if you have a pair. For more information please email trust@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096. - Saturday 3rd February
Voice/Acting Master Class Workshop for Adults - Day Course
Kilfenora
A day course with Emmy winning Actor Writer and Film Maker - Alan Cooke from 11 - 4 featuring a 4 hour master class in all aspects of voice/acting/Shakespeare technique. Cost 60 Euros. Alan Cooke is an Emmy winning actor voice teacher writer and film maker for the last 14 years. He has appeared in stage productions all over Ireland and New York. He won an Emmy for his film HOME with Liam Neeson Mike Myers and Woody Allen. He has written two novels and is developing a film of Ireland. He has taught privately and in groups holistic voice technique all over the world. www.wildirishpoet.com
Space is limited RSVP as soon as possible to Alan: 086 179 1410 alanmcooke@gmail.com or 086 179 1410 - Sun 3rd February 2013
Burrenbeo Trust walk ‘Winter Visitors to Lough Murree’ with John Murphy, Flaggy Shore.
Meeting at 1.45pm at Flaggy Shore carpark. Free for members and suggested €5 donation for non-members. trust@burrenbeo.com or 091 638096 for more information. - Sat 2nd February 2013
Burrenbeo Conservation Volunteers will be clearing more scrub from the proposed Newtown music trail, Ballyvaughan. Contact Kate 091 638096 / volunteer@burrenbeo.com.
- Date: 30th January to 2nd March, 2013
100 Years of Albanian Independence – Photography Exhibition
Foyer of the Clare Museum, Ennis
The Clare Albanian Community and Irish Friends of Albania put this photographic exhibition together with their great yearning for Albania and to mark 100 years of Albanian independence. It was launched in Galway in late 2012 and Clare is the next stop, which is appropriate, as there is a sizable Albanian population in the county. For further information contact: Ndrek.Gjini@galwaycity.ie (pronounced Andrek) - Monday, January 28th 2013
Irish Language Classes, Cois na hAbhna, Ennis
Irish Language Classes in Cois na hAbhna on Monday nights, 7.00pm - 8.00pm. There are three levels; beginners, continuation and advanced. For more information, contact Clár as Gaeilge 065 6864474. - 27th January 2013
West Clare Mini Marathon
With one in three people in Ireland affected by cancer, there is every chance your life will be touched. Show your support and help us in our mission to achieve services for the people of West Clare and surrounding areas. Our walk/run takes place on the last Sunday of every January each year. Wether you're a beginner or an experienced athlete, do your little bit to help. The walk/run is by sponsorship card only. You can get your sponsorship card at the registration nights advertised on Clare FM and in your local parish newsletter in Clare. If you are from outside of the county and wish to avail of a sponsorship card please call us on 065 - 9056181 or 065- 9060762. More info at http://www.westclareminimarathon.ie - January 25th, 2013
Governance and VAT Training Seminars for Arts Organisations
Glór, Ennis
Governance expert Chris White of Boardmatch will give the Governance training seminar from 11am – 1 pm. There will be a Q&A session after the main presentation as well as an opportunity for a number of organisations to have short one-to-one sessions with Chris in the afternoon. From 2 – 4 pm VAT expert, Fergal Cahill of Cahill Taxation Services will share his general VAT expertise as well as discussing specific VAT issues of particular relevance to venues. Vat issues and payments, especially in relation to venues and artists, sometimes get complex. There will be a Q&A session after Fergal’s presentation and he will be available for one to one consultations earlier in the day too. If you’re interested in attending one or both of these training seminars, please register here. Both seminars are free. If you’ve any questions on the seminars and their relevance for your organisation, call Theatre Forum on 01 874 6582 or email director(at)theatreforum.ie - January 17th - 20th 2013
Shannonside Winter Music Weekend
14th Shannonside Winter Music Weekend, Sixmilebridge and Bunratty. Acoustic music - dozens of styles - at its best, in the village of Sixmilebridge and the Folk Park at Bunratty Castle, County Clare in Ireland. Sessions, concerts, pub gigs, recitals, a ceili, and maybe a poetry reading make up a sensational weekend of delightful musical experiences, where the artistes and audience get equal satisfaction from the events and the atmosphere!
http://www.wmw.ie/ - Thursday 17th to Saturday 19th January 2013
A National Tourism Conference organised by Clare Tourist Council in conjunction with Clare County Council
Falls Hotel, Ennistymon, County Clare.
This conference is the twenty fourth in a programme of National Conferences on Tourism issues which Clare Tourist Council in conjunction with Clare County Council are organising for Tourism Industry, Officials and Members of Local Authorities, County Enterprise Boards, Partnerships and all Public and Private Bodies involved in the promotion of Tourism. Conference programme (PDF). - 16th January 2013
‘Learning from nature’s genius: biomimicry’ - a Burenbeo Trust talk with Katy Egan & Sophie Nicol
8.30pm at Tubber Village Hall, (OS52 N395 W956).
Katy Egan works as the Ecology and Sustainable Living Officer for Presentation Ireland. She has a background in ecology with a postgraduate in environmental education and communication. Sophie Nicol has a PhD in marine ecology and has gained extensive experience in environmental education and increasing public awareness on environmental issues. Both Sophie and Katy have recently started exploring the world of biomimicry - how technology can look to nature for solutions to problems. This talk will give some examples of this innovative switch within modern technology seeking answers in nature as opposed to being destructive towards it, and how we can all start looking at nature with new eyes, even in the Burren. This talk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and €5 from non-members. For more information please email trust@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096. - January 16th 2013
Come here till I tell ya - The Meadow, Kilmihil
'Come here till I tell ya!' Cuimhneamh An Chláir's unique Listening Room
travels to Kilmihil next Wednesday January 16th at 7.30pm in the Meadow. Come along and hear the memories of some of Kilmihil's and Clare's oldest citizens. For further information contact: Jackie Elger. Tel: 086 1760280. Email: jackie@fiantas.com. See www.clarememories.ie and www.facebook.com/clarememories - 13th January, 2013
‘The Wizard of Oz” – Crack’d Spoon Theatre Company, Teach Cheoill, Kilrush
Crack’d Spoon Theatre presents the Wizard of Oz panto. Matinee performance at 3p.m. Tickets €8 / €5 concession. - Saturday 12 January – 1 February 2013
The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon, presents: Circus Europe, an international collaboration featuring Poetry & Images, with eight large collages by Machteld van Buren from The Netherlands.
Official opening 12th January: 4 pm - Reading and book launch; 5 pm - Launch of the exhibition. Closing reception with artist talk and panel discussion: 1 February at 7pm. The theme of the panel discussion is: Questioning Europe’s Future. The series of works titled ‘Circus Europe’ are created by Machteld van Buren in 2012. The eight large collages illustrate how the struggle for survival is being waged in various European countries. Eight poets were invited to offer their interpretation of these images. The Irish poets taking part in this project are Jo Slade, Frank Golden, Jessie Lendennie and Patrick Chapman. The Dutch poets are Arnoud van Adrichem, Martin Reints, Lieke Marsman and Peter van Lier. Publisher Salmon Poetry, based in Co Clare, will publish a booklet of this project in an English edition. The collages are to be exhibited in both Ireland and the Netherlands. - Saturday 12 January – 1 February 2013
=± EQUATION ±= [Condoning the CAGE] an exhibition by Sarah Lundy
Red Couch Space, The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon.
Official opening 12th January at 4 pm. Sarah Lundy is a visual artist and curator based in county Clare. She has exhibited in selected group exhibitions nationally. http://www.sarahellenlundy.com - 12th January, 2013
‘The Wizard of Oz” – Crack’d Spoon Theatre Company, Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
Crack’d Spoon Theatre presents the Wizard of Oz panto. Matinee performance at 3p.m. Tickets €8 / €5 concession. Booking at cst@clarelibrary.ie or call 065 9060769. - 7th January to 26th January 2013
‘VIEW” - an Art Exhibition of recent work by Mary Fahy, Clare Museum
Fahy’s most recent exhibition ‘View’ invites the observer to enter into and respond to a variety of scenes. These paintings span a range of media, from oil painting to acrylic, watercolour and mixed media collage. Fahy explores colour and texture through highly individual responses to her environment. Recurring themes include trees, coastline, reflections, the play of light on land and sea. There is a sense of recollection, of experience and of contemplation in her strongly developed pieces. An opening reception will take place on Saturday, January 12th at 3pm. All are welcome. - 6th January, 2013
‘New Year in the Burren’ – Burrenbeo Trust January walk with Richard Morrison and Harry Jeuken
1.45pm at Gortlecka Cross 51R 304 945. Join us for a New Year ramble in the Burren along the Lough Avalla loop walk and work off the excesses of the Christmas season. This is a 6km loop which takes about 2 1/2 hours and requires a reasonable level of fitness. Richard Morrison is a Director of the Burrenbeo Trust with a keen interest in getting to know the different walking routes of the Burren. Harry Jeuken is the landowner of the Lough Avalla and has a wealth of knowledge of the holy wells, the winterage, and the story of the local land. Amongst other things Harry's family make cheese from their own goat herd. The walk will take us on a tour of the land farmed by Harry and his family taking a look at the archaeology, geology, botany, history and agriculture of the area. Meeting time of 1.30pm at Gortlecka Cross and walk will begin at 1.45pm, in order to return in daylight. This walk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €5 is suggested from non-members. Please bring good walking shoes and waterproofs if needed. For more information please email trust@burrenbeo.com or phone
See http://www.glor.ie
for events at Glór Irish Music Centre, Ennis
See http://www.burrencollege.ie/
for events at the Burren College of Art, Ballyvaughan
See http://www.burrenpaintingcentre.com
for courses at O'Neill's Burren Painting Centre, Lisdoonvarna
See http://www.burrenpaintingcentre.com
and http://www.artatthepark.net
for courses at Art at the Park, Killanena
See also: Events
Calendar 2012, Events Calendar 2011, Events
Calendar 2010, Events Calendar 2009, Events
Calendar 2008, Events Calendar 2007,
Events Calendar 2006, Events Calendar
2005, Events
Calendar 2004, Events Calendar 2003, Events
Calendar 2002 and Events Calendar 2001
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