County Clare Events Calendar 2016

See also: Library Events

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Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

1916-2016 Centenary Events, County Clare: Chronological listing 2016 (PDF)

December

• Saturday, 17th December, 2016
  A Christmas Carol (2009) - Christmas Film Club brought to you by Kilkee Civic Trust.
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee at 7.30 p.m.
  Charles Dicken's classic tale is brought to life in this stunning animation starring Jim Carrey, Gary Oldman & Colin Firth.
  Tickets €4 / €15 family. For further information please contact Box Office between 2 – 5pm / Wednesday – Friday 10.30 - 1.30 / Saturday (if there is a show on that night) half an hour before each event / activity.
  t: 065 9060769. e: kilkeeboxoffice@clarelibrary.ie. www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• Saturday, 17th December, 2016
  Clare Youth Traditional Singing Circle
  Presented by Clare Arts Office in Glór, Ennis from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
  Sessions led by John Flanagan and Elle Marie O'Dwyer.
  "Come, join us for a song and some craic - no experience required. All children and teens welcome."
  For further information contact the Arts Office at 065-6899091 or arts@clarelibrary.ie
• 16 December 2016
  Declan O’Rourke
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Declan O’Rourke has achieved critical acclaim for his songwriting, singing and performance. Paul Weller once said of O’Rourke’s song ‘Galileo’ that it’s possibly the greatest song written in the last thirty years. Declan plays to sold-out crowds in his native Ireland and, more recently, further afield. A consummate and versatile performer, his songs mesmerize regardless of whether performed solo, with a band, string quartet, full orchestra, or as a trio.Tickets €20. Tickets available at the box office on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• Tuesday, 13 December 2016
  Fornocht do chonac thú / Naked I saw thee’: Political, Cultural and Sporting Songs, 1884-1916
  The Malbay, Miltown Malbay at 8pm.
  The Old Kilfarboy Society is delighted to announce details of a talk with song performance, led by Tim Dennehy, Edel Vaughan and friends. This will be the final talk of 2016. Titled 'Fornocht do chonac thú / Naked I saw thee’: Political, Cultural and Sporting Songs, 1884-1916’, the evening will provide a musical journey through the cultural revival period, from the late nineteenth century through to 1916.
  Admission is €5 for non-members and all are welcome.
• Monday 12th December
  From Boston to Boardroom with Breege O’Donoghue
  Tubber Village Hall at 8.30pm
  This month Burrenbeo Trust are delighted to have a local to the Tubber area, Breege O’Donoghue join us. Originally from the nearby Boston, Breege went on to become a Board Member & Group Director (Business Development & New Markets) at Penneys/Primark and she continues with an Ambassadorial role in Primark. Breege has held government appointed positions on the board of a number of state companies including An Post, Aer Rianta, Chairman of Shannon College of Hotel Management, Chair of the Labour Relations Commission.
  Breege is currently a Non-Executive Director, Member of the Nominations Committee and Chair of the Remuneration Committee at C&C Group plc, Non-Executive Director of Shaws Department Stores and a Trustee and Member of the National Executive of IBEC.
  This talk will be about her journey from the Burren to the Boardroom. As it is in the lead up to Christmas this will be preceded by mulled wine and mince pies so do join us. It is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a suggested €5 donation from non-members.
  For more information please email info@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
  Tubber Village Hall on Google Maps
• 12th December - 7th January, 2017
  “Storm chasing: The Wild Atlantic Way” Art Exhibition by Marianne Lynch
  County Museum, Ennis, Co. Clare.
  Marianne Lynch is a County Clare based artist who works in oils and mixed media in an abstract expressionist style. Her work is informed by the landscape of her native Clare, in particular the Burren, and the coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way. Marianne began painting five years ago and has been mentored by the well known Cork artist Cora Murphy. She has developed a unique style which seeks to express the alchemical interaction between viewer, nature and the weather. She often paints outdoors in the landscape. As a psychotherapist, Marianne seeks to capture our emotional , psychological , ancestral and spiritual relationship to the landscape and to convey the importance of that relationship to our psyche. For further information please contact: mariannemurphylynch@gmail.com.
• 12th December - 6th January, 2017
  Exhibition by Wolf Lorien
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee.
  This show of recent works focuses on the inspiration of classicalism and the role it has played in art as a rich source of timeless wisdom.
  It incorporates pen and ink paintings of W.B. Yeats, Lady Gregory and Oscar Wilde amongst others as well as animals and mythological creatures.
  For further information please contact the Box Office 2 – 5pm / Wednesday – Friday 10.30 - 1.30 / Saturday (if there is a show on that night)
  half an hour before each event / activity.
  t: 065 9060769. e: kilkeeboxoffice@clarelibrary.ie. www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• Saturday,10th December, 2016
  Darby O'Gill and the Little People (1959) - Christmas Film Club brought to you by Kilkee Civic Trust.
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee at 7.30 p.m.
  Starring Albert Sharpe & Seán Connery this quirky fun tale is full of fun and frolics, certain to be enjoyed by all the family.
  Tickets €4 / €15 family. For further information please contact Box Office between 2 – 5pm / Wednesday – Friday 10.30 - 1.30 / Saturday (if there is a show on that night) half an hour before each event / activity.
  t: 065 9060769. e: kilkeeboxoffice@clarelibrary.ie. www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• Thursday December 8th
  City of God - Temple Cronan, Carran
  X-PO, Kilnaboy at 8.30pm
  The December heritage talk at the X-PO in Kilnaboy will be given by Tony Kirby. The illustrated talk is entitled City of God -Temple Cronan, Carran and will take place on at 8.30 p.m.
  Temple Cronan is one the most spectacular ecclesiastical sites in North Clare.
  Archaeological highlights include holy wells, rare relic shrines, cemetery, penitential stations, ancient church, monastic enclosure and a complex of ruins of lay buildings.
  Amongst other things, the site was a centre of pilgrimage of regional importance in the past - monks and pilgrims devoted to the cult of a now obscure localised saint, Cronan.
  The talk will focus on the archaeology and the history of the site.
  Tony Kirby is a walking tour guide. He is author of the book The Burren and the Aran Islands A Walking Guide published by The Collins Press.
  The X-PO is located in the former post office in Kilnaboy. It is a community hub for social and cultural activities. All are welcome to the talk. More information 086 087 29 83.
• 7 December 2016
  Winter Film Club ‘Casablanca’
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  The much-loved Casablanca has come to epitomise the classic Hollywood studio picture at its best. Ironically, its ‘perfect’ blend of elements-story, casting, music, studio artifice-seems to have resulted from one of those happy accidents that occasionally makes for a great movie. The film’s turbulent production involved constant rewrites and radical changes in casting, with Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman replacing Ronald Reagan and Ann Sheridan. Fortunately, director Michael Curtiz was on hand to give fate a helping hand in making the film one of Hollywood’s most memorable romantic melodramas. The familiar narrative focuses on themes of lost love, honour and self-sacrifice in an exotic wartime setting. Bogart is the cynical nightclub owner in Casablanca who has a fateful meeting with the lover he left behind in Paris. She is now married to a French Resistance fighter who is hunted by the Nazis, and Bogart has to decide whether or not to help the couple escape to freedom. This film is 102 minutes long and has a G cert. Tickets €5, Seniors €4. Tickets available at the box office on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• Sun 4th December 2016
  Exploring the High Common with Stephen Hegarty
  Meet at Junction at Commons North (OS51 R269946) at 2pm.
  December is a beautiful time for exploring the Burren, as the limestone is bathed in winter light. Join Burren native Stephen Hegarty to learn some of the stories of the area on the Burrenbeo Trust December walk. Stephen is passionate about the Burren and its history. He lives on a farm with his wife Eva, near an Iron Age ringfort outside Kilfenora. Working as a part time beef and free range pork farmer, he has a keen interest in sustainable farming, rural development and eco-tourism.
  The walk will meet at the junction on the Commons North between Kilnaboy and Carron. While not a strenuous walk, this will include some walking on limestone pavement and broken rock so a reasonable level of fitness is required. Good walking shoes or boots are recommended along with warm clothes and waterproof's etc. Since we will be walking on farm land where we may encounter livestock, unfortunately no dogs will be allowed.
  The walk is open to everyone, and will focus on information sharing rather than covering long distances, although a reasonable level of fitness is required. It is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. For more information please email aine@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
  Directions: From Corofin
  From Corofin, County Clare, travel north on the R476 and drive through Kilnaboy village. Continue on for 1km and take the first right after the village (L5096). Continue carefully on the L5096 and soon you will start climbing. After a steep climb you will reach open limestone grassland. Continue for c.1 km and you will reach a junction with a right turn, park here. See Discovery Series 51.
• Saturday, 3rd December 2016
  Momma Mia (2008) - Christmas Film Club brought to you by Kilkee Civic Trust.
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee at 7.30 p.m.
  Come and sing along with Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan and Colin Firth as they bring some of Abba’s classic tracks to life in this fun caper.
  Tickets €4 / €15 family. For further information please contact Box Office between 2 – 5pm / Wednesday – Friday 10.30 - 1.30 / Saturday (if there is a show on that night) half an hour before each event / activity.
  t: 065 9060769. e: kilkeeboxoffice@clarelibrary.ie. www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• Saturday, 3rd December, 2016
  Clare Youth Traditional Singing Circle
  Presented by Clare Arts Office in Glór, Ennis from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
  Sessions led by John Flanagan and Elle Marie O'Dwyer.
  "Come, join us for a song and some craic - no experience required. All children and teens welcome."
  For further information contact the Arts Office at 065-6899091 or arts@clarelibrary.ie
• Saturday 3 December
  Little John Nee
  Russell Gallery, New Quay at 8pm
  "Small Halls and Potholes" - eccentric songs, strange stories & sublime shapes-Tickets (12.50 euros) now. See http://www.russellgallery.net/ for more information.
• Friday, 2nd December, 2016
  At the Temple Gate Hotel, Ennis at 7 p.m.
  ‘Where I Find God’ – a booklet launched by Martina Lehane Sheehan with a performance by Noirín Ní Riain.
  This book is a collection of reflections on where people find God, it includes contributions from Mary McAleese, Finbar Furey, Brent Pope and Cathy Kelly. Four renowned Photographers two from Clare, John Kelly and Christy McNamara donated photographs to compliment the written word. All the royalties from the sale of the book are divided between The Peter McVerry Trust and Focus Ireland. For more information please contact Cora Guinnane and Joanne O’Brien at 0872400135

November

• Sat. 26 November to Sat. 24 December, 2016
  ‘Solid Burren’ - Exhibition of Works by Dolores Lyne and Leonie King
  in the Russell Gallery, New Quay at 3 p.m.
  ‘Solid Burren’ features the work of award-winning Galway artists Dolores Lyne and Leonie King. This exhibition is being launched by poet and Aosdana member Mary O’Malley.
  Primarily a painter, Dolores hails from Kerry and graduated in fine art in Waterford, subsequently to be lured up the coast by the landscapes of the West. She lived on Aughinish for a while before moving to Connemara where she now works. Her oil paintings capture the complexity of the stone terrain, a landscape laid bare and exposed to the elements, creating a stark, beautiful and atmospheric subject, lit by the unique Burren light. By contrast, Leonie King is renowned for her vividly coloured coborundum prints, pushing the boundaries of the medium with rich textures, created by over-layering individual inks, building up sensuous images, inspired by her travels in the Burren, a landscape she sees every day from her home on the shores of Oranmore. Dolores and Leonie have exhibited widely, individually and together, in shows in Ireland, the UK, the United States and mainland Europe, including the Royal Academy London, the RHA Dublin, Galway International Arts Festival and in over twenty galleries in Ireland. Their work is represented in many public and private collections including the Arts Council, OPW, NUI Galway, Irish Writers' Museum, Galway, Tipperary and Monaghan County Councils and the Bank of Ireland.
  The Russell Gallery opening time: Mon-Sat 11am to 5pm, Sundays 12pm to 5pm (closed on Wednesdays). For more info please call 065-7078185 or visit www.russellgallery.net
• Saturday 26th November 1p.m
  The Subtle Earth Energies in the Burren, Talk by Jackie Queally in support of current art exhibition by Tanya Harris
  Ennistymon Courthouse Gallery, Parliament St., Ennistymon
  Last May in the Burren lcoal artist Tanya Harris attended a workshop on earth energies which Jackie Queally from the Gort region had organised. Entitled the multi dimensionality of the Earth, and led by writer and sculptor Marko Pogacnik, it drew an international crowd to it and was a great success. Marco is the current Unesco Artist for Peace and has devoted his life to understanding and communing with the subtle energies that reside in the Earth. These have influenced his sculptures and drawings in his manifold books. Like Marko, Jackie writes spiritual books on the land, and is currently is writing another on the Celtic trees. See www.earthwise.me/shop for list of titles She has worked with Marko at various locations and he encourages her to spread his deeply spiritual ideas. To this end Jackie arrange walks, workshops and "slow tours" in the Burren and Burren Lowlands that encompass his special exercises he calls Gaia Touch.
  She finds that adapting Marco's exercises to locales and to the trees enables people to effortlessly absorb the subtle energies they exude. This work is very valid if we are to restore humanity's harmonious relationship with Mother Mature and the living Earth. It also inspires sensitive artists such as Tanya Harrison to produce art that speaks to our universal heart.
  In this talk you can learn more about the innovative thinking behind such people who realise that there is a real connection between our own thoughts and that of the nature beings. There are many wrong assumptions in the economic world that can create obstacles in the formation of a healthy balanced symbiosis between man and nature. It is not simply a matter of conservation politics. Our current times need a shift in emphasis whereby more subtle dimensions of life forms are recognised as a valid part of our continued existence.
  For more information see http://thecourthousegallery.com
  Facebook: Ennistymon Courthouse Gallery
  Opening Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 12 - 5 pm
• Saturday, 19th November, 2016
  Clare Youth Traditional Singing Circle
  Presented by Clare Arts Office in Glór, Ennis from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
  Sessions led by John Flanagan and Elle Marie O'Dwyer.
  "Come, join us for a song and some craic - no experience required. All children and teens welcome."
  For further information contact the Arts Office at 065-6899091 or arts@clarelibrary.ie
• 14th November – 9th December, 2016
  Different Arrangements Exhibition by Seán Walsh.
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee.
  Seán Walsh is a contemporary artist living and working in Cahir, Co. Tipperary. He graduated from NCAD and worked as an art teacher for almost 40 years.
  He works in different mediums, including stained glass, crushed stone, low relief carving, acrylics and pastels etc.
  For further information: Box Office 2 – 5pm / Wednesday – Friday 10.30 - 1.30 / Saturday (if there is a show on that night) half an hour before each event / activity.
  t: 065 9060769. e: kilkeeboxoffice@clarelibrary.ie. www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 12 November 2016
  Martin Hayes and Dennis Cahill
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Martin Hayes is regarded as one of the most extraordinary talents to emerge in the world of Irish traditional music. His unique sound, his mastery of the fiddle and his acknowledgement of the past and his shaping of the future of the music, combine to create an astonishing and formidable artistic intelligence. He has drawn musical inspiration from sources as diverse as the Estonian composer Arvo Pärt, the Spanish viola da gamba master, Jordi Savall, and the jazz genius, John Coltrane, but remains grounded in the music he grew up with in his own locality, in Feakle County Clare. Dennis Cahill is a master guitarist, a native of Chicago born to parents from the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, Ireland. He studied at the city’s prestigious Music College before becoming an active member of the local music scene. Cahill’s spare, essential accompaniment to Martin Hayes’ fiddle is acknowledged as a major breakthrough for guitar in the Irish tradition. Tickets €25 / €22. Under 18’s can attend this event for €12.50 when accompanied by an adult as part of the Leath/Leath initiative with Music Generation. Tickets available at the box office on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• Sun 6th November 2016
  A polje, strange beds and veins: rocks and features of Carron with Colin Bunce
  Meet at NUIG Field Station, Carron (51R 286 992) at 2pm
  Perhaps the Burren’s most distinctive feature, the geology of the area is fascinating. Colin Bunce will share his vast knowledge on the Burrens geological features on the Burrenbeo November walk. Colin works as a senior instructor at the Burren Outdoor Education Centre with key involvement in providing field study programmes for secondary schools. His background is in geology and he is an avid caver. He has run numerous geology courses and teaches at the Caherconnell Summer School. He has lived and worked in the Burren for many years.
  Meeting point will be the NUIG Field station at Carron. Please note there is additional parking in the adjacent gravel store. While not a strenuous walk, this will include some walking on limestone pavement and broken rock so a reasonable level of fitness is required. Good walking shoes or boots are recommended along with warm clothes and waterproof's etc. Since we will be walking on farm land where we may encounter livestock, unfortunately no dogs will be allowed.
  The walk start point is marked here. The walk is open to everyone, and will focus on information sharing rather than covering long distances, although a reasonable level of fitness is required. It is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. For more information please email aine@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
• Saturday, 5th November, 2016
  Clare Youth Traditional Singing Circle
  Presented by Clare Arts Office in Glór, Ennis from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
  Sessions led by John Flanagan and Elle Marie O'Dwyer.
  "Come, join us for a song and some craic - no experience required. All children and teens welcome."
  For further information contact the Arts Office at 065-6899091 or arts@clarelibrary.ie
• Friday 4th November to Saturday 3rd December
  Exhibition by Maurice Quillinan '….the sea’s furthest end'.
  The Courthouse Gallery (Main Gallery), EnnistymonMaurice Quillinan takes inspiration from his travels to China, France and close to his native Limerick for this body of work, focusing on series’ of abstract paintings made between 2015 and 2016.
  The artist explains, “My work has always been about exploring the spirit of the landscape. I am fascinated by what makes a place a place and at the same time different from many other seemingly similar locations. The work in this exhibition are explorations of three places, Lahinch strand, Anse Mejan (Toulon, France) and Hungshan (China)"
  For more information see http://thecourthousegallery.com
  Facebook: Ennistymon Courthouse Gallery
  Opening Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 12 - 5 pm
  All the drawings are Conte crayon, Gouache and watercolour on paper. The paintings are oil on linen, dating from 2015 – 2016.”
• Friday 4th November to Saturday 3rd December2016
  The Ecology of a Multidimensional Landscape by Tanya Harris
  The Courthouse Gallery (Red Couch Space), Ennistymon, Co. Clare.
  Opening 8pm
  Since returning to Ireland from living in London, Tanya Harris has been exploring the rural landscape of Clare through the lens of the mystic, examining sites of myth and folklore through phenomenology and geomancy. This exhibition offers a snapshot of her current research interests, from the potency of myth to the reality of its unique landscape.
  “Humanity co-exists with Earth and its consciousness, Gaia. Thousands of years ago, people believed in the power of the elementals and understood that nature is multidimensional. This body of work consists of digital and mixed media collages, drawing, video and audio works inspired by a workshop in May 2016 given by Marko Pogacnik, where we explored energetic places in Clare along Gaia's ley lines and acupuncture points. During this workshop we intentionally aligned with the elemental energies by means of an ancient science, geomancy; the ability relate to the consciousness of Earth. When you start to recognize the trees and plants and mountains and landscapes as consciousness you are becoming aware that the intelligence of nature is one and the same.”
  http://www.tanyaharris.co.uk/
  For more information see http://thecourthousegallery.com
  Facebook: Ennistymon Courthouse Gallery
  Opening Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 12 - 5 pm
  Kindly supported by Clare County Council - Clare County of Culture
• 2 November 2016
  Winter Film Club ‘Son of Saul’
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Our Winter Movie for November is ‘Son of Saul’. This is a 2015 foreign language film. It is 107 minutes with a 15A cert. László Nemes’ stunning debut feature takes its title from central character Saul, a Hungarian-Jewish prisoner at the Auschwitz Birkenau concentration camp who, in his job as a Sonderkommando, is forced to assist in the grisly day- to-day management of mass exterminations. When Saul witnesses a young boy briefly surviving the gas chamber, he becomes determined to give the child a proper Jewish burial. First-time actor Géza Röhrig provides the focal pointfor the film as Saul – the camera rarely strays from his character while he negotiates the intricate workings of the camp in an attempt to carry out this dangerous quest.One of the most talked-about films of the last year, this is an extraordinary, gripping and powerful piece of work. Winner of the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival 2015, and nominated in the Best Foreign Language Film category at the 2016 Oscars. Tickets €5, Seniors €4. Tickets available at the box office on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie

October

• 27th-30th October, 2016
  Burren Winterage Weekend
  Kilfenora and environs
  The Burren Winterage Weekend celebrates the extraordinary story of how generations of Burren farmers have, through their unique pastoral farming systems, shaped what is widely regarded as Ireland’s richest landscape in terms heritage - plants, animals, monuments and culture . Visitors to the Burren this October Bank Holiday weekend can witness re-enactments of ancient pastoral traditions as well as enjoying the heritage and hospitality of the Burren .This is a rare opportunity to experience the Burren from the farmers’ perspective, and to gain an insight into the life of a west of Ireland farmer.
  For hundreds of years, Burren farmers have marked the end of summer by herding their cattle up onto winter pastures in the limestone uplands, in the tradition known as winterage. The Burren is one of the only places in the world where it still occurs. Winterage has been integral to shaping today’s familiar Burren landscape, with recent research linking this practice with the Burren’s famous biodiversity
  Central to the weekend will be the Burren Winterage School on sustainable farming, a unique event which brings together a truly diverse range of stakeholders – farmers, scientists, public servants – to break down silos and share ideas on sustainable pastoral land management. The weekend will culminate with a community cattle drive, a unique opportunity for people to join in and get a first- hand experience of the movement of cattle to the winterage while spending time with the farmers who are carrying this out.
  The picturesque village of Kilfenora will be the ‘hub’ of this year’s festival, hosting an array of events including walks through one of Ireland’s richest archaeological landscapes, old farm machinery displays, a mart selling shorthorn cattle, a community ‘feast’ and much more.
  Visit the www.burrenwinterage.com website for details of all the events. For more information or bookings please contact info@burrenbeo.com or 091-638096.
• Thursday October 20th 2016
  Sonny Murphy - Kilnaboy's Olympian
  X-PO Kilnaboy at 8.30pm
  The October heritage talk at the X-PO in Kilnaboy will be given by James Neylon and Seán Roche.
  Michael Sonnie Murphy was a native of Ballycashen, Kilnaboy. Sonnie was an accomplished athlete and took part in a heat of the 3,000 metres steeplechase in the 1932 Los Angles Olympic Games. He suffered from severe dehydration during the race which took place in extreme heat. Murphy never fully recovered from the effects of the dehydration and he died back in Ireland on St. Patrick’s Day 1936.
  The talk in the X-PO coincides with the 80th anniversary of Sonny’s death.
  James Neylon and Seán Roche are both natives of Kilnaboy and are active in local community groups including Kilnaboy Athletic Club. Moreover, James and Seán are involved with the Sonnie Murphy Memorial Race in the parish since its inception in 1984. James and Seán have a keen interest in local history.
  The X-PO is located in the former post office in Kilnaboy. It is a community hub for social and cultural activities. All are welcome to the talk. More information 087 292 54 87.
• Wednesday, 12th October, 2016
  Burrenbeo Winter Tea Talk: 'The Breathing Burren’
  Book launch and talk with Gordon D’Arcy
  8.30pm @ Tubber Village Hall, Tubber, Co.Clare
  Naturalist and artist, Belfast native Gordon D’Arcy has spent over 30 years living on the Burren’s edge and exploring its remarkable natural heritage. Now, with The Breathing Burren, his art-weighted new book, he celebrates the region with essays and attractive watercolours that convey a deep affection and intimacy. He also pays tribute to the people with whom he shares the wonders of the Burren and who have contributed to an understanding and appreciation of it.
  A compendium of personal experiences connected to natural history, derived mainly from diary extracts, the essays range from bird and animal encounters, through floral forays, to underground and night-time explorations and low-tide discoveries. They have been chosen not especially for their uniqueness but rather their memorability; they are mainly experiences that have struck a chord, which D’Arcy feels enthusiastic about sharing.
  Join Gordon D’Arcy in rambling the length and breadth of this renowned place, through its moods and seasons, befriending its diverse inhabitants, and breathing the Atlantic air that whispers its welcome to all comers.
  This will be a book reading and interview with Gordon D’Arcy and is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a suggested €5 donation from non-members. For more information please email info@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
• Tuesday, 11 October 2016
  "Breaking wind in church": The songs of West Clare with Jim Carroll
  The Malbay, Miltown Malbay at 8pm
  In this opening talk of the Old Kilfarboy Society Winter Series, Jim Carroll will present ‘”Breaking wind in church”: The songs of West Clare’, based on songs collected in West Clare over the past four decades. The talk will focus on a selection of songs and will discuss their importance, as entertainment and as recorders of local history. Jim will also discuss how these songs reflect the lives of people in West Clare, primarily in the first half of the twentieth century.
  Jim Carroll and Pat Mackenzie have long been recognized as song collectors of note, and first began recording Irish singers in the early 1970s, both in the UK and in Ireland. Their work has formed the basis of recordings, radio programmes and now the fruits of their decades of collecting songs can be heard online at the Clare County Library website as part of the Singers and Songs of County Clare project: http://www.clarelibrary.ie/eolas/coclare/songs/cmc/
  The talk takes place in the Malbay, Miltown Malbay and begins at 8pm. Membership for the year, which includes the six talks, is €20 (€10 OAP), or you can pay on the night, €5. All are welcome.
• Sunday 2nd October 2016
  ‘A Ramble around Kilshanny with Pius Murray
  Meet at Kilshanny Church (51 R126929 ) at 2pm
  Burrenbeo’s October walk will be around the western edge of the Burren at Kilshanny, The walk will be led by Pius Murray who is a leader with Clare Pilgrim Way. The Clare Pilgrim Way has been marking out a pilgrim route linking ancient monastic sites, holy places and cultural centres around the County and a small section of South Galway. While this will not be a strenuous walk you should wear good walking shoes and bring waterproofs and warm clothes as required. There will be an optional stop at Kilshanny House for tea and scones for an extra donation afterwards
  No dogs allowed. The walk is open to everyone, and will focus on information sharing rather than covering long distances, although a reasonable level of fitness is required. It is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. For more information please email aine@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
  Directions
  Kilshanny is located on the N67 between Ennistymon and Lisdoonvarna. The church is reached by taking the turning opposite the Kilshanny house (on the left if coming from Ennistymon or right if coming from Lisdoonvarna).

September

• 23 September - 1 October, 2016
  Picking Up the Threads: Women’s Lives Remembered
  Remaking the Fabric of Care to Learn from Maternal Deaths
  The Courthouse Gallery
  Parliament Street, Ennistymon, Co. Clare
  This exhibition commemorates the lives of the women who have died in our maternity services. Between 2007 and 2014, there were inquests for eight of these women, all of which ended in verdicts of death by medical misadventure.
  This multi-media exhibition includes:
  - a knitted quilt, made by over one hundred contributors from across the island of Ireland and beyond, many of the small pieces for which came from Donegal women
  - showings of the documentary, Picking up the Threads, which has been made about this project
  - portraits of the eight women who have had inquests following their maternal deaths
  - a framed cross-stitch panel of the names of the eight women, made by local Donegal woman, Louise McCrossan
  - a knit a stitch and keep the thread going work open to all who wish to contribute a row or two or more of knitting
  - yarn bombing contributions from Donegal and Derry
  - a national petition to the incoming Minister for Justice to secure the amendment for a legal inquest in the face of all maternal deaths
  - the chance for groups to meet in the course of the exhibition and chat about what is needed to improve maternity service locally in Donegal
  For further information, contact: Martina Hynan martinahynan@gmail.com
  Jo Murphy-Lawless jlawless@tcd.ie or Doreen Fitzmaurice doreenfitz@hotmail.com
  Find the Elephant Collective at https://www.facebook.com/The-Elephant-Collective-1662667163990925/ and https://twitter.com/el_collective where you can also view the trailer for the documentary: https://vimeo.com/147098420
  The exhibition also has a Facebook Events Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/779112152221562/
  See also the Irish Midwives Association http://irishmidwives.ie/
• Friday 16th September
  Culture Night: Various events all over Clare
  5pm to 10pm
  Events in Ennis, Shannon & West Clare
  Events in East Clare and North Clare
  See also: http://www.culturenight.ie
• Friday 16th September
  ‘Twilight over Blackhead’
  Songs, Stories and the Burren with Shane Casey, John Casey & Guests.
  Meet at 7.30pm at Murroghtoohy layby (51 M 150 115).
  Explore the Burren landscape in the twilight and get a new perspective on the area. Led by Shane Casey, the evening will include songs, stories, stargazing and an overview of nocturnal wildlife. Shane is a native to this area but is also the Biodiversity Officer for Dublin City Council. Shane and John are both very familiar with Blackhead, Fanore and the local songs, stories and nature.
  The meeting point will be Murroghtoohy layby, Blackhead (51 M 150 115) at 7.30pm. The start point is marked on this map. Suitable shoes and clothing for walking required, as well as waterproofs, or warm cloths etc as necessary. While we will try to keep light to a minimum it may be worth bringing a small torch or head torch if you have one. Some of this walk is on broken pavement so a reasonable level of fitness is required. The walk is a free event but donations will be gratefully received.
  For more information see www.burrenbeo.com, email aine@burrenbeo.com or call 091 638096.
  Directions:
  From the West (Ballyvaughan)
  Take the R477, the coastal road from Ballyvaughan to Fanore. Shortly after you pass the lighthouse (on your right) you will reach a large layby on the right. This is the Murroghtoohy layby.
  From the South (Lisdoonvarna)
  Take the R477, the coastal road to Fanore and Ballyvaughan. Approximately 1Km to the North of Fanore you will come to a large layby on your left. This is the Murroghtoohy layby.
• Saturday 10th September
  NYCI Child Protection Awareness Programme for Artists with Tom Kent - Ennis
  Visual Artists Ireland in partnership with Clare County Council Arts Office
  10.00 - 14.00 in Ennis
  Have you previously undertaken Child Protection Training? If not, then this is the session will provide you with certified basic Child Protection Training through the National Youth Council of Ireland's (NYCI) Children First Programme.
  This session is aimed at artists who work with Children and Young People through a range of media including visual arts, music, literature, dance, theatre and film. In particular of interest for artists working in schools but also other contexts such as workshops in libraries and community settings and public art projects that involve engagement with Children and Young People. N.B. Places will be prioritised for artists based in County Clare.
  Format The NYCI Children First Child Protection Awareness Programme is the basic awareness course developed for staff and volunteers working with young people, and is the recognised training programme for the youth work sector. The course is delivered through tutor input, group discussion and exercises. The session covers the following topics:
  - Legislation and policy
  - Values and attitudes
  - Reasonable grounds for concerns
  - Dealing with disclosures
  - Code of behaviour – working safely with young people
  - Scenarios
  Tom Kent is Director of Programmes with YMCA Ireland. Tom began his career in the Tourism Industry and went on to join YMCA Ireland in 2006. He has extensive experience in training & development and managing quality control systems. His primary role is running the YMCA STEP programme across 5 centres in the Republic of Ireland.
  To register or for more information email: monica@visualartists.ie
  Cost: €10.00 / 5 VAI Members
• 4th September 2016
  Burrenbeo Trust September Walk:
  Changing Seasons at Lough Avalla with Harry Jeuken and Family
  Meet at 2pm at Gortlecka Crossroads (51R 304 945).
  Join us on one of the Burren’s most stunning walks around the Lough Avalla loop walk and catch the last of the summer blossoms. Harry Jeuken is the landowner at Lough Avalla and has a wealth of knowledge of the holy wells, the winterage, and the story of the local land. Harry and his family are certified organic farmers and also farm biodynamically. 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.
  The meeting point will be Gortlecka cross at 1.45pm for 2.00pm start. The start point is marked on this map. As parking is limited we suggest people car share or arrive early and please be mindful or landowners and road users when parking. Suitable shoes and clothing for walking required, as well as waterproofs, sunblock or warm cloths etc as necessary. This is a strenuous walk some of which is on broken pavement with a couple of climbs and descents and will be slightly longer than our usual walks - lasting for 2.5 - 3 hours. There will be tea and cake at the farmhouse afterwards for an extra donation - €5 suggested.
  Due to presence of livestock on the land no dogs are allowed on the walk.
  For more information see www.burrenbeo.com, email aine@burrenbeo.com or call 091 638096.

August

• 11th August 2016
  Book Launch, Flowing Tides, History and Memory in an Irish Soundscape.
  Old Ground Hotel, Ennis at 7pm
  Book Launch of Flowing Tides, History and Memory in an Irish Soundscape by Professor Gearóid Ó hAllmhuráin.
  An undisputed mecca of traditional music, County Clare is an isolated soundscape in the west of Ireland. Home to legendary music villages such as Doolin, Miltown Malbay, Lisdoonvarna, Tulla and Kilfenora, Flowing Tides argues that this ancient place has felt the effects of global cultural flows for centuries.
  Despite its isolation on the western edge of Europe, Ireland occupies vast amounts of space on the music maps of the world. Deeply rooted in time and place, Irish songs, dances and instrumental traditions have a history of global travel that span the centuries.
  For the first time, this remarkable soundscape is explored by an insider, a fourth generation Clare concertina player, uilleann piper and an internationally recognised authority on Irish traditional music. Entrusted with the testimonies, tune lore, and historic field recordings of Clare performers, Gearóid Ó hAllmhuráin, reveals why this ancient place is a site of musical pilgrimage and how it absorbed the impact of global cultural flows for centuries.
• 11th August 2016
  God, Crown & Country: Clare's Soundscape in the Age of Rebellion
  Old Ground Hotel, Ennis at 7pm
  Lecture by Professor Gearóid Ó hAllmhuráin
  Although Clare enjoys a singular reputation as a storehouse of Irish traditional music, little has been written about the genesis of this soundscape, or the seminal events that shaped it during Ireland’s prolonged Age of Rebellion. Clare music making owes much to the combined sonic signatures of Irish revolutionary nationalism, the Catholic Church, and the military bands of British garrisons stationed throughout the county in the years leading up to the Rising of 1916. Focusing on the sounds of rebellion, as opposed to the written records of rebellion, this illustrated lecture will examine the eclectic roles of music and music makers in Clare’s transformation from colonial outpost to revolutionary county.
• 9th August 2016
  Chamber Philharmonia Cologne presents Classics from Germany
  St. Flannan’s Cathedral in Killaloe at 8pm
  Featuring a diverse program ranging from Antonio Vivaldi to W.A. Mozart, Francois Borne, Gioacchino Rossini and Niccolo Paganini. Tickets available at the Church one hour prior to the concert from 7 pm.
• 7th August 2016
  ‘Above and Below Garryland’ Ecology & underground rivers of Coole – Garryland
  Tierneevin Church at 1.30pm
  Join Burrenbeo Trust for an exploration of the fascinating ecology and underground rivers of the Coole – Garryland turlough complex with Dr David Drew and Dr Micheline Sheehy Skeffington. This turlough system is unusual in that, though farmed at Garryland, it is surrounded by native woodland that gives it a primeval aspect which is unusual in the east Galway area. David and Micheline will share their respective expertise and shed light on the wonders of this habitat. Formerly a lecturer on karst, hydrology and hydrogeology in Trinity College Dublin, David’s particular interest is in limestone (karstic) regions of Ireland such as the Burren and especially in the underground waters in these areas and is actively involved in research into the groundwater in the Burren. Dr Micheline Sheehy Skeffington has recently retired as lecturer in Plant Ecology in the Botany Department, NUI Galway, where she taught for 34 years.
  The walk will meet at Tierneevin Church at 1.30pm to allow carpooling to the start location which has limited parking. The walk will last for roughly 2 hours, depending on water levels. The walk start point is marked here. Please bring good walking shoes and waterproofs or suncream if needed. No dogs allowed. The walk is open to everyone, and will focus on information sharing rather than covering long distances, although a reasonable level of fitness is required. It is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.

July

• 31st July - 5th August 2016
  Rose Of Clare Festival
  Cooraclare & Cree
  A family festival incorporating field day fun, sporting and heritage events, selection of 2016 Rose of Clare and something for all the community.
• 31st July 2016
  Ceol Cois Tine Traditional Music Night
  Carrigaholt at 7.30pm
  Enjoy a night of traditional music in Keane’s Pub. www.loophead.ie
• 31 July 2016
  Old Kilfarboy Society guided walk to Rathborney Valley and Cappanwalla Hill in the Burren North.
  Church carpark, Miltown Malbay at 2pm
  This guided walk will visit the lovely medieval church and graveyard at Rathborney, one or two of the fine cashels that are a feature of the Rathborney valley, and weather permitting will include a walk along part of the Burren Way to see the prehistoric enclosure on Cappanawalla hill. Christine Grant (archaeologist with the National Monument Service, Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs) will be our guide.
  All interested should meet at Church Car Park, Miltown Malbay at 2pm, on the day or alternatively, at 3 pm in the car park opposite the church in Ballyvaughan. All are welcome and remember to wear suitable footwear.
  €5 per person.
• 31st July 2016
  1916 - 2016 Centenary Commemoration Open Air Concert
  Kilrush
  Open air concert in the beautiful settings of the Vandeleur Walled Garden. www.vandeleurwalledgarden.ie
• 30th July - 1st August 2016
  Kilmihil Festival Of Fun
  Kilmihil
  Ireland’s only festival completely dedicated to fun and making you smile.
• 30th July 2016
  Jack L in concert
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
  Jack’s once yearly visit to Cultúrlann Sweeney, always sells out, so you are advised to get your tickets fast! In celebration of The 1916 Centenary Jack Lukeman recorded a beautiful version of “The Minstrel Boy”. The song was originally written by Thomas Moore (1779–1852) in remembrance of those whom had participated in (and were killed during) the Irish Rebellion of 1798. The song gained widespread popularity and became a favorite and a great inspiration for the 1916 Easter Rising. To this day the song is notably associated with organizations that historically had a heavy Irish representation worldwide. International Irish singer songwriter extraordinaire Jack Lukeman is one of Ireland’s most respected and best loved performers and few can match his award-winning powerhouse vocals and inventive live shows. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets cost €20 and are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 29th - 31st July 2016
  Doonbeg Seafood Festival
  Doonbeg
  The festival has something for everyone - events include open air fish market, pony & trap rides, face painting, zorb balls, treasure hunt, water golfing and music. http://www.clare.ie/event/doonbeg-seafood-festival/
• 27th July 2016
  Battle Hymns Of The Republic
  Kilrush
  West Clare 1916-2016 Commemoration Steering Group present “Battle Hymns of
  the Republic” - the rendition of republican anthems, love songs and tributes to those who
  died in 1916, to include poetry readings and dress of the era. www.clarecoco.ie
• 27th July 2016
  Children’s Film Club ‘ Garfield – A tale of two Kitties’
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
  Comedy sequel in which the laziest cat in America swaps places with the richest feline in England. Jon Arbuckle (Breckin Meyer) is on his way to London to propose to his veterinarian girlfriend, Liz Wilson (Jennifer Love Hewitt), and his unflappable cat, Garfield (voice of Bill Murray), is determined to be there when Jon pops the big question. Of course, Garfield wouldn't go anywhere wihout his old pal Odie, and soon after arriving in the land of Big Ben, the clueless tomcat inadvertently changes places with royal look-a-like Prince. It seems that Prince's owner, Lady Eleanor, has recently passed away, leaving the care of her sprawling estate Castle Carlyle in the capable paws of her devoted kitty companion. The trouble is, Prince has decided it's time for a vacation, and with Garfield in charge there's no telling what kind of trouble will befall Castle Carlyle. Running time 86 minutes. Suitable all ages. Film starts 6.30pm. Tickets €4. Family ticket €15 (4 persons). Tickets are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 26 July – 19 August 2016
  ‘Claresan’ Art Exhibition by Helen Lowe
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  ‘Claresan’,is the title of the exhibition. The “san” is an honorific used to imply importance of the county Clare. “Clare”, is a sacred place and a source of artistic inspiration for many years. Thought out the county there is a great feeling of beauty and archaeology importance. This exhibition captures the some of the solidarity of seascapes, landscape, and fauna that Clare offers. The selected awe-inspiring paintings are brought to life using classical elements of earth, water, fire and air giving the images a three-dimensional feel. The exhibition is located on the edge of the Atlantic in the beautiful coastal town of Kilkee. The official opening is Saturday 30th July at12pm, all welcome. The exhibition runs from the 26th July to the 19th of August, and will be open to the public during library opening hours.
• 23rd July 2016
  North Clare Show
  Corofin
  The 67th North Clare Agricultural Show is a fun day out for all the family. www.visitcorofin.com
• 23rd July 2016
  Frankie Gavin and De Dannan in concert
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
  Frankie Gavin and De Dannan bring something different and unique to their audiences. The band’s repertoire includes their trademark sets of lively, sometimes furious jigs and reels –– but their choice of material, arrangements and playing style combine to set traditional Irish music in a wider musical and cultural context. This 21st century line-up infuses the band’s inherited music with a bewildering range of influences – from gypsy jazz to contemporary pop music, and from mainstream European classical music to sentimental Irish-American ballads. The band’s latest recordings, the CD Jigs and Jazz II and their recent single which pairs Handel’s The Queen Of Sheba with Paul Mc Cartney’s Calico Skies, illustrate perfectly the fusion of sounds and influences that now characterise their music. Band line-up: Frankie Gavin: Fiddle, Viola, Flute and Whistle, Barry Brady: Accordion, Colm O’Caoimh: guitar and Vocals, Dan Bodwell: Double bass, Bernadine Casserly: Vocals. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets cost €25 and are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 23rd July 2016
  Barn Dance At The Farmyard
  Corofin
  A night of live music and delicious food. Prizes for the best dressed cowboy/cowgirl! www.thefarmyard.ie
• 21st July 2016
  Animal Magic Workshop with Ruth Wood
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Make colourful masks and images of animals using a range of patterns and textures. Suitable for 6-12 year olds. Originally from Killaloe and a Fine Art graduate of the Limerick School of Art and Design Ruth Wood has worked as a professional painter in Munster since 1998.She runs a diverse range of collaborative art workshops with children, adults and people with special needs. Recent groups include Ennis National School, Doonaha National School, Kilrush Artists group, and an ongoing weekly session in Bawnmore, Limerick .To enhance her facilitation skills in this area she has recently completed the QQI Award. Training delivery & evaluation, Component Certificate. Level 6, (Distinction). Workshop starts at 3.30pm. Tickets €8 & €6 per child thereafter. Advanced booking required.
• 20th - 24th July 2016
  Kilrush Traditional Music & Set Dancing Festival
  Kilrush
  Music & set dancing festival with workshops and open air céilís. www.kilrushcce.com
• 20th July 2016
  Children’s Film Club ‘Annie’
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
  Annie is a young, happy foster kid who’s also tough enough to make her way on the streets of New York in 2014. Originally left by her parents as a baby with the promise that they’d be back for her someday, it’s been a hard knock life ever since with her mean foster mom Miss Hannigan. But everything’s about to change when the hard-nosed tycoon and New York mayoral candidate Will Stacks – advised by his brilliant VP, Grace and his shrewd and scheming campaign advisor, Guy – makes a thinly-veiled campaign move and takes her in. Stacks believes he’s her guardian angel, but Annie’s self-assured nature and bright, sun-will-come-out-tomorrow outlook on life just might mean it’s the other way around. Running time 118 minutes. Suitable all ages. Film starts 6.30pm. Tickets €4. Family ticket €15 (4 persons). Tickets are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 19th July 2016
  Global Archaeology: digging around the world, a talk by Dr Kate Leonard.
  St Patrick’s Hall Corofin, at 8pm
  The 2016 Summer prehistoric archaeology lecture series, Corofin County Clare, is brought to you by ‘The Irish Fieldschool of Prehistoric Archaeology’ and the ‘Department of Archaeology, NUI Galway’. All lectures are open to the public - €5/€3.50 concession. More info at www.prehistoricfieldschool.ie and email info@prehistoricfieldschool.ie
• 18th - 22nd July 2016
  Music summercamp with Ennis Guitar School
  Westgate, Kilrush Rd, Ennis
  25 hours of class tuition including supervised daily jamming sessions with house band. Fee €90. All summer camp participants will be entered into a free draw for 2 tickets to see Tommy Emmanuel live in the Limetree Theatre Limerick on Sunday, July 24th. Ennis Guitar School, Westgate, Kilrush Rd, Phone 065 6822516 or visit G4guitarmethod.com
• 17th July 2016
  Clarecastle Regatta
  Clarecastle
  Family gathering on the quays in Clarecastle.
• 16th July 2016
  Burren Inspirational Walk
  The Burren at 10.30am
  Walkers participate actively in spiritual/inspirational walks in the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark. www.coisceimanama.ie
• 16th July 2016
  Kieran Goss in concert
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
  Long hailed as one of Ireland’s leading songwriters and performers, Kieran Goss’s music has won him fans across the globe. But if his songs have made him a star, his live shows have made him a legend. Live on stage is where Kieran Goss really shines. Kieran will perform the first half of the show solo and will be joined on stage in the second half by harmony singer Annie Kinsella. Individually, they are both gifted singers but when they sing together, magic happens… Don’t miss this rare chance to see Kieran performing in this beautiful intimate venue. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets cost €20 and are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 15th - 17th July 2016
  Peadar Clancy Festival
  Cranny
  A great weekend of fun assured from cultural parade, treasure hunt, fancy dress themed night to a family fun day.
• 14th July 2016
  Dorothy Dolittle’s Magical Adventure
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Starring Dorothy DoLittle, Ronnie-Run-A-Lot, Clarence Carrot with a guest appearance by Miss Aubergine (Queen over the Land-of-The-DoLots). CallBack theatre has been touring to theatres, schools, festivals, libraries etc with educational shows for the last 10 years and are back again with this show ‘Dorothy DoLittle’s Magical Adventure’, an educational and fun puppet show about the importance of Healthy Eating and Physical Activity. The show uses puppets and actors in a beautiful colourful set. The show encourages interaction from the children as they learn about the importance and methods of healthy eating and physical activity. The show is a fun, enjoyable adventure, whose message is so important for today’s children. Show starts at 7.30pm. Tickets €5, Family Ticket €18 (4 persons). Tickets available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 13th July 2016
  Children’s Film Club ‘Wallace and Gromit’
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
  The cheese-loving Wallace and his ever faithful dog Gromit are back in the movie ‘The Curse of the Ware Wolf’. Running time 85 minutes. Suitable all ages. Film starts 6.30pm. Tickets €4. Family ticket €15 (4 persons). Tickets are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 11th - 15th July 2016
  The Farmyard Summer Camp
  Corofin
  Experience all the fun, excitement and healthy living that a working farm has to offer from milking the cow to farm to fork cookery class. Suitable for 7 - 13 years old. www.thefarmyard.ie
• 10th - 17th July 2016
  Céilí At The Crossroads Festival
  Clarecastle
  20th annual festival of set-dancing, singing and music in Clarecastle.
• 10th July 2016
  Kilkee Currach Racing
  Kilkee
  Kilkee hosts a round of currach racing. www.loophead.ie
• 9th July 2016
  Itri Inis Triathlon
  Ennis
  iTri triathlon will have triathlon and aquathon events at Ballyalla Lake. Our main sprint triathlon event will be part of the Triathlon Ireland National Series. www.ennistriclub.com
• 8th - 10th July 2016
  Loophead Gathering Festival
  Cross
  A family festival of traditional music, comedy events, cultural events, sport and family fun for all. www.loopheadclare.com/
• 8th - 10th July 2016
  Kilkee Maritime Festival
  Kilkee
  The Maritime Festival allows you to take part in the many events organised for the weekend from raft
  racing to sand castle building, there is something for everyone. www.loophead.ie
• 8th - 9th July 2016
  ‘Write, Rap, Record’ summer workshop series for teenagers
  An Grianán, North West Clare Family Resource Centre, Ennistymon
  Music Generation Clare in partnership with the North West Clare Family Resource Centre present ‘Write, Rap, Record’ summer workshop series for teenagers aged between 14 and 18 years of age in the North West Clare area, June 8th to July 29th, 2016, to write produce and video record a new musical work created through sampling, mixing, hip-hop, DJing, and acting. For further details see NWFRC and Music Generation Clare Facebook pages.
• 8th - 9th July 2016
  Wild! By Evan Placey - Ennis Street Arts Festival in association with glór
  glór, Ennis, 12pm & 2pm
  WiLd! tells the story of 10-year-old Billy, who has been diagnosed with the condition ADHD and brilliantly captures Billy's world from his funny, quirky distracted view of the world.
  Billy lives with his Mum while his Dad and elder brother no longer live at home. Billy decides to look after the bee hive that belonged to his Dad, trying to stop the bees from swarming and hoping his Dad will recognise that he has done a good thing - perhaps this might persuade Dad to return? Tickets €10|€8|€30 Family of 4 - Suitable for ages 8+
• 8th July 2016
  The Musical Menagerie
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  The Musical Menagerie’ Puppet Show features the story of two zoo-keepers reminiscing about their first days in the job. A tall tail tale is told about a Gibbon that lost his tail, while meeting exotic animals from far and wide, including Sheridan the Sloth, Imelda the Rhino Hornbill, Kevin the Snake and Gilbert – the Gibbon who’s lost his groove. This magical musical is told with all original songs including “I’m a Lean Mean Sleeping Machine”, “The Rainforest Jive” to name but two. The animals combine breath-taking realism with elements of fantasy that have become the trademark of Your Man’s Puppets. The Musical Menagerie Puppet Show delivers a wonderfully imaginative performance which leaves the audience full of memories of a great, shared family experience, suitable for all ages. Show starts at 7.30pm. Tickets €5, Family Ticket €18 (4 persons). Tickets available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 8th July 2016
  Maria Doyle Kennedy
  glór, Ennis
  Maria is an Irish singer, actor and filmmaker. She has sung live with Snow Patrol and has spent more than two decades performing all over the world before audiences at Glastonbury, Oxygen and the Cambridge Folk Festival, and in small, intimate theatres. She honed her craft as a performer with Hothouse Flowers and The Black Velvet Band before performing in the movie The Commitments and by then, Maria’s reputation was strong enough to earn her a place singing on the album The Lady Sings The Blues alongside Aretha Franklin, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, Tina Turner and Annie Lennox. €20
• 8th July 2016
  Balloon Modelling with Deirdre Carmody - in association with Ennis Arts Festival
  glór, 11am & 12.30pm
  Have fun creating colourful balloon dragonflies, fish on a rod, swans, bees, hats and lots more. Watch little faces light up as they leave with their balloon creations and a certificate of accomplishment. Tickets €10
• 7th - 10th July 2016
  Ennis Street Arts Festival
  Ennis
  The streets of Ennis will come alive with fun, art, culture and entertainment. All of this is brought to you by local, national and international artists. www.ennisstreetfestival.com
• 7th July 2016
  Drawing Workshops with Aidan Courtney - in association with Ennis Arts Festival
  glór, 11am
  Aidan Courtney delivers a bee themed illustration workshop where children will learn how to draw the Queen Bee, her workers, a bee keeper and many other fun bee related things. This will all be step by step drawing for kids. Parents are welcome to accompany their children if they wish. €10 – suitable for ages 5 - 13.
• 7th July 2016
  Contemporary Dance Workshop with SAAP from Budapest - in association with Ennis Arts Festival
  glór, Ennis, 3.30pm
  Street Art Project Performances is a young Hungarian contemporary dance start-up, performing theatrical dance pieces. These workshops will be an introduction to dance performance and how it can be integrated in public spaces. With classical ballet and contemporary dance skills you will learn how to bring art to people's everyday life. €10 - ages 13+
• 7th July 2016
  World Tales with Niall de Búrca
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
  Grab your seat and hang on tight, Niall de Búrca will be performing at Culturlann Sweeney on July 7th. More dangerous than the pied piper, de Búrca will cast a spell on all ages. Join him for a Summer feast of tales from many lands. Raised in the West; Niall emigrated at a young age and has performed on 6 continents in countries as diverse as Denmark, Iran and Romania. Using his voice with a craftman’s skill, Niall shares great tales with tremendous energy, judgement and superb timing. Show starts at 7.30pm. Tickets cost €5 and €18 for a family ticket (4 persons). Tickets available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 6th July 2016
  Launch of Community Art Mural designed by artist Michelle Bradley
  West Clare Resource Centre Miltown Malbay 1.15pm
  Launch of LCETB-sponsored Community Art Mural designed by artist Michelle Bradley, based on a reworking of the Pied Piper Story with a female piper leading the children into Spraoi, the Community Creche. The event features music and poetry and is supported by Na Piobairi Uileann. All are welcome.
• 6th July 2016
  Contemporary Dance Workshop with SAAP from Budapest - in association with Ennis Arts Festival
  glór, Ennis, 12pm
  Street Art Project Performances is a young Hungarian contemporary dance start-up, performing theatrical dance pieces. These workshops will be an introduction to dance performance and how it can be integrated in public spaces. With classical ballet and contemporary dance skills you will learn how to bring art to people's everyday life. €10 - ages 13+
• 6th July 2016
  Aerial workshop with Outside the box Circus - in association with Ennis Arts Festival
  glór, Ennis, 11am
  Aerial Workshops for children and adults, where you will have the opportunity to learn and explore aerial and acrobatic circus skills. €10.
• 5th July 2016
  Make your own Puppet with Suse from Branar - in association with Ennis Arts Festival
  glór, Ennis, 11am & 2pm
  Suse has been puppet designer and maker for all of Branar’s productions since 2009. She will work with children and one parent to make and use their own puppet during this workshop. No experience necessary. €10 – Suitable from age 7 – 12
• 4th - 8th July 2016
  Music summercamp with Ennis Guitar School
  Westgate, Kilrush Rd, Ennis
  25 hours of class tuition including supervised daily jamming sessions with house band. Fee €90. All summer camp participants will be entered into a free draw for 2 tickets to see Tommy Emmanuel live in the Limetree Theatre Limerick on Sunday, July 24th. Ennis Guitar School, Westgate, Kilrush Rd, Phone 065 6822516 or visit G4guitarmethod.com
• 4th July 2016
  Buzzing with colour with Shone MacGillivary - Workshop in association with Ennis Arts Festival
  glór, Ennis, 11am & 1pm
  Explore the life of bees and the flowers through paint and mixed media. Shona from The Art Box will guide the children through methods of observing, imagining and enjoying the colourful effects of painting. €10. Suitable for age 5+
• 3rd July 2016
  ‘Rambling on a Burren Butterfly Road’ with Jesmond Harding, a Burrenbeo Trust Walk
  Creevagh/Cloncoose Green Road, Kilnaboy (51R 273 955) at 2pm
  The Burren is home to a remarkable number and range of butterflies and moths. Join Jesmond Harding, one of Ireland's foremost butterfly experts, on the Burrenbeo July walk on a beautiful Burren green road. Jesmond is the author of 'Discovering Irish Butterflies and their Habitats' and the founder of the Butterfly Conservation Ireland group to raise awareness and work towards protecting these species. Jesmond carries out a lot of work in the Burren in training and conservation for the the protection of the rarer local species. The walk will be followed by tea and scones with Nuala Daly for an extra donation. The walk will meet at Cloncoose at 2pm and will last for roughly 2 hours. Please bring good walking shoes and waterproofs or suncream if needed. No dogs allowed. The walk is open to everyone, and will focus on information sharing rather than covering long distances, although a reasonable level of fitness is required. It is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
• 3rd July 2016
  Summer Craft Fair & Plant Sale
  Kilrush
  Celebrate summer at Vandeleur Walled Garden with a summer craft fair and plant sale. www.vandeleurwalledgarden.ie
• 3rd July 2016
  Mountshannon 10k Road Race & 5k Fun Run
  Mountshannon at 2pm
  Route follows the stunning scenery of the Harbour & Woodpark Forest Park. www.runireland.com
• 3rd July 2016
  Carrigaholt Currach Racing
  Carrigaholt
  Enjoy the competition of local currach crews battling out to become Carrigaholt champions.
  www.loophead.ie
• 2nd - 10th July 2016
  Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy
  Miltown Malbay
  Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy is a week long summer school and festival of Irish traditional
  music, song and dance, with classes, workshops, lectures, recitals, concerts & céilithe.
  www.scoilsamhraidhwillieclancy.com
• 2nd - 10th July 2016
  Festival Of Music & Dancing During The Willie Clancy Week
  Armada Hotel, Spanish Point
  10-day programme of céilithe, set dancing sessions and country music dancing coincides with Willie Clancy Week in nearby Miltown Malbay. www.armadahotel.com
• 2nd - 3rd July 2016
  The O'Brien Summer School First International Symposium, covering ‘The Era of King Brian Boru, 10th-11th centuries’
  Killaloe, County Clare
  http://www.obriensummerschool.com/

June

• 30th June - 3rd July 2016
  Féile Brian Ború
  Killaloe/Ballina
  An annual festival commemorating Ireland’s greatest High King in his native place with an exciting programme of events to suit all ages. www.feilebrianboru.com
• 29th June - 2nd July 2016
  Merriman Summer School 2016 Gallant Allies In Europe
  Ennis
  The 2016 Summer School will explore the Easter Rising in its international context, especially with regard to the British Empire and the continent of Europe and consider Ireland’s relationship with Europe (including the UK) 100 years on from 1916. www.merriman.ie
• 29th - 30th June 2016
  Village Carnival
  Newmarket on Fergus
  The 6th annual music, arts and heritage festival. www.obair.org
• 28th June 2016
  Killaloe Pink Ribbon Walk
  Killaloe/Ballina
  The Killaloe Pink Ribbon is a 10k walk or running event in the picturesque Killaloe Ballina area raising funds for Action Breast Cancers and welcomes males, females and over 12s to take part. www.pinkribbonwalk.ie
• 28th June 2016
  Comhaltas Summer Seisiún At Cnoc Na Gaoithe
  Tulla at 8pm
  Enjoy a stage show showcasing the best of local traditional music, dancing, singing and storytelling followed by an informal session with audience participation encouraged. www.cnocnagaoithe.com
• 28th June 2016
  Going walkabout on the Burren: re-discovering ancestral land-scapes, a talk by Christine Grant (UCD & NMS).
  St Patrick’s Hall Corofin, at 8pm
  The 2016 Summer prehistoric archaeology lecture series, Corofin County Clare, is brought to you by ‘The Irish Fieldschool of Prehistoric Archaeology’ and the ‘Department of Archaeology, NUI Galway’. All lectures are open to the public - €5/€3.50 concession. More info at www.prehistoricfieldschool.ie and email info@prehistoricfieldschool.ie
• 28th June 2016
  Brendan Shine; The Lobby Tour
  glór, Ennis
  Brendan Shine returns to glór with a show of all his favourite and best known songs. Brendan has released over 50 albums and has had 45 hit single in a glittering career that has taken him from his Co Westmeath home to every major concert hall the world over. His hit singles include: O’Brien Has No Place To Go, Where The Three Counties Meet, Abbeyshrule, All My Roads Lead Back To You, How Much Time and, of course, Do You Want Your Oul Lobby Washed Down which Brendan famously performed for Pope John Paul II on his visit to Ireland. Even after all of these years Brendan shows no signs of slowing down and will release a new Best Of CD to coincide with his 50th Anniversary Tour of Ireland and the UK. Tickets €25.
• 25th June 2016
  Rebel Rebel - The David Bowie Experience
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Rebel Rebel are a 6 piece David Bowie tribute faithfully recreating the most popular songs from Bowie’s extensive back catalogue. The band themselves are fans and have a deep respect for the man and his music. The set for this costumed show is built on Bowie’s most loved and enduring songs and the band have worked hard at re- creating the sound and look of a David Bowie concert covering Bowie’s hits from 1969 right up to present day. Lead singer Peter Quinn has always had his voice compared to Bowie’s. “I released an album of original material in 1999 and it was instantly compared to Bowie. It was something I had been told from the time I cut my first demo tape, so when I was looking for a new project a Bowie tribute was the obvious direction.” The band are made up of some of the finest session musicians in the country, the members having previously played with an array of Ireland’s top artists including; Sinead O’Connor, Clannad, Gavin Friday, and Jack L. €20
• 24th - 26th June 2016
  Lissycasey Music Festival Live At The Marquee
  Lissycasey
  A weekend of music, song & dance for the community of Lissycasey featuring Stockton’s Wing, Mike Denver, a host of local musicians and Sunday is a family day.
• 24th - 26th June 2016
  Fleadh Cheoil An Chláir 2016
  Kilrush
  A festival of music, song & dance competitions for qualifications to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. www.clarecomhaltas.net
• 24th June 2016
  Some Like it Hot - Film Food and Music Night
  glór, Ennis
  Dir: Billy Wilder 1959 121 mins Cert: 12
  Joe (Tony Curtis) and Jerry (Jack Lemmon) are two out-of-work on-the-run musicians that hide out by dressing as women and joining Sweet Sue's All-Girl Band. They both become infatuated with lead singer Sugar Kane (Marilyn Monroe). High-jinx ensue. Classic comedy directed by director extraordinaire Billy Wilder. €20 – Film, Food & Music, €8 Music only. Food by Raviolo Verde - glór.
• 23rd June 2016
  The Tale of Ancient Lights & The Whistle
  glór, Ennis, at 8pm
  The Tale of the ancient Lights is a search for destiny in Asian Legend. This is a story told through the skilled movements of the artist. The piece is a non-narrative 45mins show which embodies beauty and poetry, enacted with a deft combination of circus, dance and magic. The concept of The Whistle is almost genius in its simplicity: the performer onstage has a whistle. When he blows it, the audience closes their eyes, when he blows it again, they open them. What if you were at the same time spectator and creator of a piece? A juggler, a whistle and the audience together create a multitude of moments: Time travel – Déjà vu – Glitches – Fast forward – Rewind – Déjà vu. All without technics or special effects. €18|€16 Ages 10+.
• 22nd June 2016 – 20th July 2016
  Original Drawings by Ruth Wood
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
  Originally from Killaloe and a Fine Art graduate of the Limerick School of Art and Design Ruth Wood has worked as a professional painter in Munster since 1998, celebrating the beauty of Limerick and Clare. She produces limited edition prints from drawings of Limerick and Clare. Presently her work is available in Kilbaha Gallery, Diamond Rocks Café, Kilkee, Wood Brother’s Café, Killaloe and Seoidin craft shop, Ennis. As a recent MA History of Art graduate from the University of Limerick, her academic education has informed and enhanced her creativity. This has enabled Ruth to look at new ways to express and extend her artistic interests. She runs a diverse range of collaborative art workshops with children, adults and people with special needs. Recent groups include Ennis National School, Doonaha National School, Kilrush Artists group, and an ongoing weekly session in Bawnmore, Limerick .To enhance her facilitation skills in this area she has recently completed the QQI Award. Training delivery & evaluation, Component Certificate. Level 6, (Distinction). Voluntarily Ruth does street art, face painting, assisting in many festivals and events in the locality. Most recently, she has participated in the Kicking the Bucket project and exhibition; exploring death and dying through a creative lens. Ruth’s exhibition can be viewed in the foyer of Cultúrlann Sweeney during library opening hours until the 20th July.
• 21st June 2016
  ‘The origin of the Irish gold gorget – an exploration of the concept of the warrior prince in Late Bronze Age Ireland, a talk by Mary Cahill (NMI)
  St Patrick’s Hall Corofin, at 8pm
  The 2016 Summer prehistoric archaeology lecture series, Corofin County Clare, is brought to you by ‘The Irish Fieldschool of Prehistoric Archaeology’ and the ‘Department of Archaeology, NUI Galway’. All lectures are open to the public - €5/€3.50 concession. More info at www.prehistoricfieldschool.ie and email info@prehistoricfieldschool.ie
• 18th - 19th June 2016
  Summer Workshop Weekend At Irish Seed Savers
  Scarriff
  A range of gardening and self-sufficiency workshops. www.irishseedsavers.ie
• 18th - 19th June 2016
  Doolin Heritage Weekend
  Doolin
  A Weekend Of Heritage, Culture And Archaeology with talks and outdoor events.
• 18th June 2016
  Hell Of The West
  Kilkee
  Not for the faint hearted, come and see men and women challenge their endurance ability in one of the toughest events on the peninsula. www.loophead.ie
• 18th June 2016
  Clockwise Art Children’s Theatre
  glór, Ennis at 8pm
  Clockwise Arts - Children’s Theatre presents and evening of drama & theatre performed by young actors aged 6 – 12 years. Students will present two plays; ‘Don’t shoot the Messenger’ by John Morton a play written for young performers about fantasy, adventure, friendship and ultimately, the importance of teamwork. Also, ‘Granny Red Riding Hood’s Secret Recipe’ by Robert Reed, an energetic play with lots of laughter and surprises! €10|€8|€30 family 4.
• 18th June 2016
  An Post Tour De Burren
  Ballyvaughan
  The An Post Tour de Burren is a cycling event for all levels of cyclists. Choose from one of four routes around scenic North Clare: 10km family spin, 60km, 100km and 160km. www.tourdeburren.com
• 18th June 2016
  Burren Sonas Kindergarten Cruise & BBQ Fundraiser
  Doolin Pier at 5.15pm & Hotel Doolin at 6.30pm
  Burren Sonas kindergarten is a not for profit childcare facility based in Kilfenora. The kindergarten has been providing local children from 2.9 months to 6 years with a home from home experience for 10 years. Sonas has been actively bringing families and community together with the teachers giving children the best possible start in life. The kindergarten is holding a novel fund raiser of family fun on Saturday evening 18th June. The highlights of the evening are a Cliffs of Moher cruise and a rockin’ barbeque. The 1 hour-long cruise leaves from Doolin Pier at 5.15 p.m. The barbeque, disco and raffle kick off at Hotel Doolin at 6.30 p.m. The cruise costs 15 euros per adult with child at 5 euros. The barbeque tickets are also 15 euro per adult and 5 euros per child. A combination ticket for cruise and barbeque cost 25 euros per adult and 10 euros per child. Booking can be made by visiting “Special Offers” at www.doolinferry.com or alternatively by phoning Deirdre at 087 713 15 90 after 2.00 pm. All proceeds benefit Burren Sonas Kindergarten. Bígí linn!
• 16th June 2016
  Carlene Carter in Concert
  glór, Ennis
  Carlene Carter returns to glór for one night following her memorable concert here in 2010. The daughter of June Carter Cash and her first husband Carl Smith – Johnny was her stepdad – Carlene nas never shied away from being the heiress to the legacy of country music’s foremost family. “I always include at least one Carter Family song, or one written in the Carter Family spirit,” says Carlene, citing as a pertinent example “Spider Lace,” which appeared on her deeply personal last album, Stronger (2008). She had her biggest hits in the ‘90s, with “Every Little Thing” and “I Fell In Love” both reaching No. 3. The latter was the title track of an album that also included “Me And The Wildwood Rose,” a song that she wrote about being a Carter girl, which she most fittingly revives on Carter Girl, her latest album. €20
• 15th June 2016
  God Bless The Child
  glór, Ennis at 8pm
  First confessions are the hardest! The acclaimed play based on stories by Frank O Connor. The childhood stories of Frank O'Connor are universally regarded as being classics of their kind. Three of the funniest: First Confession, My Oedipus Complex and The Genius have been brought together within a single full-length play. Richly evocative of Ireland in the early decades of the 20th Century, funny and moving, and featuring memorable performances, God Bless the Child is a must see and marks the 50th anniversary of the death of Frank O Connor in 1966. ‘O Connor’s hilarious childhood stories are beautifully adapted for the stage.’ The Observer. Tickets €18|€16
• 14th June 2016
  ‘Knowth, County Meath: Exploring a great passage tomb cemetery’, a talk by Dr Kerri Cleary.
  St Patrick’s Hall Corofin, at 8pm
  The 2016 Summer prehistoric archaeology lecture series, Corofin County Clare, is brought to you by ‘The Irish Fieldschool of Prehistoric Archaeology’ and the ‘Department of Archaeology, NUI Galway’. All lectures are open to the public - €5/€3.50 concession. More info at www.prehistoricfieldschool.ie and email info@prehistoricfieldschool.ie
• 13th June 2016
  Taste The Loop
  Kilkee
  An opportunity to taste the products of Loop Head Food Circle. The afternoon is set in front
  of the bandstand in Kilkee, with live music and entertainment for the children. www.loophead.ie
• 12th June 2016
  Interesting Sites on the Coast Road, West of Kilkee, an Old Kilfarboy Society Walk with Tommy McGrath
  M eet at Sweeney Memorial Public Library, Kilkee at 2 pm
  Local historian Tommy McGrath will guide a walk to a wide range of historical sites around the Coast Road, in Kilkee. Among the sites we will visit are the Spa Well at Fooagh; a former local brick-making business in the same area; Bishop’s Island; St Kee’s Well; Intrinsic Bay; Look Out Cliff; and the former Fooagh Racecourse. Anyone interested in joining the walk, please meet outside Sweeney Memorial Public Library, Kilkee at 2 pm on Sunday, 12 June, and bring comfortable footwear! The cost is €5 per person.
• 12th June 2016
  Kilbaha Currach Racing
  Kilbaha
  Currach racing and entertainment at the pier in Kilbaha. www.loophead.ie
• 12th June 2016
  Ruan Gymkhana
  Ruan
  SJI registered show, 3 arenas, all grades of ponies and horses welcome. Show jumping, lead rein competition plus family fun for everyone.
• 11th June 2016
  Boru Tri Club Boruman Sprint Triathlon
  Killaloe
  A 750m safe swim, 24km cycle and 5km run with epic finish in Killaloe itself. Suitable for beginners and seasoned athletes. www.borutriclub.com
• 10th - 12th June 2016
  Doolin Folk Festival
  Doolin
  Doolin is famed for its traditional Irish music and this festival brings back to Doolin traditional & folk musicians who have had a connection with the area over the years. www.doolinfolkfestival.com
• 8th June 2106
  The Jungle Book
  glór, Ennis, 10am & 11.45am
  Tickets €6|Teachers free . Age 4 +
  You may think you know The Junglebook, but Indigo Moon Theatre brings you a surprisingly good story inspired by the poetry & spirit of Rudyard Kipling's original books. Fearless and free, Mowgli the ‘man-cub,’ finds fun and friendship as he learns to live by the Law of the Jungle. Mowgli's wild adventures in the dangerous world he inhabits are brought to life with inventive shadow theatre, powerful original music and colourful digital projections. A contemporary tale: it offers us wisdom in our eternal quest for love, identity and belonging. Find out more about this inspirational and accessible art form and its use of puppets and multiple light sources after the show.
• 7th June 2016
  ‘Burnt mound structures: prehistoric houses, shelters or sweat lodges’, a talk by Dr Alan Hawkes (UCC).
  St Patrick’s Hall Corofin, at 8pm
  The 2016 Summer prehistoric archaeology lecture series, Corofin County Clare, is brought to you by ‘The Irish Fieldschool of Prehistoric Archaeology’ and the ‘Department of Archaeology, NUI Galway’. All lectures are open to the public - €5/€3.50 concession. More info at www.prehistoricfieldschool.ie and email info@prehistoricfieldschool.ie
• 5th June 2016
  ‘Woodland Wanderings – exploring Attyslaney’ a Burrenbeo Trust Walk with Sean Quealy
  2pm @ Tubber GAA Pitch (52 R389 963).
  Join us for our June walk at Attyslaney wood in the Burren lowlands. Hopefully we’ll be sheltering from the sun under the range of native trees and shrubs in this limestone woodland! Sean Quealy will lead us on an exploration of the woodland. He is Project Manager of Woodland Restoration In Ireland, a programme jointly funded by Coillte and the European LIFE-Nature Programme. The walk will look at the native Irish trees and shrubs at Attyslaney, an important woodland in transition from production forests to priority woodlands in Ireland. The walk will meet at Tubber GAA Pitch at 2pm and will last for roughly 2 hours. Please bring good walking shoes and waterproofs or suncream if needed. No dogs allowed. The walk is open to everyone, and will focus on information sharing rather than covering long distances, although a reasonable level of fitness is required. It is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
• 4th - 5th June 2016
  Ennistymon Book Town Festival
  Ennistymon
  An annual pop-up celebration of books, reading and the imagination, on the edge of the Burren. www.ennistymonbooks.com
• 4th June 2016
  Rath/Dysert Heritage Walk
  Dysert O’Dea at 10.30am
  Stroll in heritage rich, tranquil countryside near Dysert O’Dea Castle. www.coisceimanama.ie
• 4th June 2016
  Launch of Ennis Street Arts Festival
  glór, Ennis, 2pm
  5th class pupils from Knockanean NS will perform the work they have composed specially for the centenary commemoration, called A Soundscape of Easter Monday 1916. Hope features a diverse and varied mix of work from printmakers from the major print studios in Cork, Dublin and Limerick, selected by Mike Byrne of LSAD. Free admission
• 4th June 2016 8pm
  Puckoon – Spike Milligan
  glór, Ennis
  It’s back by popular demand! The show’s sell-out 2009 and remounted 2011 tour had audiences all across Ireland screaming with laughter at its Goonish blend of theatrical anarchy, musical wit, and impossible plot. Ireland 1922, and the Ulster Boundary Commission has drawn the new border straight through the small town of Puckoon. With the church separated from its own graveyard and drink now thirty percent cheaper in one corner of the pub, life in the newly divided village will never be the same again. Based on the book by Spike Milligan, this comic masterpiece is an irreverent and hilarious story which takes the mick, celebrates the absurd, and paints a picture of a simple life that borders on the ridiculous. Tickets €18|€16
• 3rd - 6th June 2016
  The Doonbeg International Jazz Festival
  Doonbeg
  A weekend of all things Jazz. www.doonbegjazz.com
• 2nd June 2016
  Traditional Horse Fair
  Kilrush
  Horse & pony traders position themselves about the Market Square while traders line Frances Street. www.clarecoco.ie

May

• 31st May 2016
  The Holy Wells of County Clare – a talk by Michael Houlihan for the Kilrush & District Historical Society
  Teach Ceoil, Grace St., Kilrush at 8pm
• 31st May 2016
  ‘Isolated togetherness – Life on a Burren hilltop in the Bronze Age’ a talk by Dr Stefan Bergh (NUIG).
  St Patrick’s Hall Corofin, at 8pm
  The 2016 Summer prehistoric archaeology lecture series, Corofin County Clare, is brought to you by ‘The Irish Fieldschool of Prehistoric Archaeology’ and the ‘Department of Archaeology, NUI Galway’. All lectures are open to the public - €5/€3.50 concession. More info at www.prehistoricfieldschool.ie and email info@prehistoricfieldschool.ie
• 29th May 2016
  The Torch Players present ‘The Cripple of Inishmaan’
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
  The director, Maurice O’Sullivan, has assembled a cast of nine to take on Martin McDonagh’s dark comedy. The play is set on the rural island of Inishmaan in 1934. In a place where news is currency, the inhabitants, through village gossip Johnny Pateen, learn of a Hollywood film crew’s arrival on the neighbouring island of Inishmore. McDonagh’s comic masterpiece tells the story of the eccentric islanders but centres around “Cripple” Billy Claven, a young man trying to escape the boredom of the island and make sense of who he is. This play will have audiences crying with laughter as well as empathising with those less fortunate characters. Making their return to the stage for Torch Players this year are Mary Harvey, Edel Heaney, Mícheal O’Dubhghaill, Peter Hayes, Joanne O’Brien, Dan Mooney and Antoinette Portley. Torch Players are also delighted to welcome Oisín Gogarty as well as James Corr who will be taking on the role of Billy Claven. Award winning team Tara Doolan and Pius McGrath will tie the entire production together with lighting and sound. Starts at 8pm. Tickets cost €12/10. Book on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 29th May 2016
  Ceol Cois Tine Traditional Music Night
  Carrigaholt at 7.30pm
  Enjoy a night of traditional music in Keane’s Pub. www.loophead.ie
• 28th May 2016
  Clare Burren Marathon Challenge
  Ballyvaughan & Fanore
  Clare Burren Marathon Challenge is a road, green road and trail challenge across the beautiful scenic Burren. Enjoy some of Europe’s most unique landscapes. www.clareburrenmarathonchallenge.com
• 28th May 2016
  Barn Dance At The Farmyard
  Corofin
  A night of live music and delicious food. Prizes for the best dressed cowboy/cowgirl! www.thefarmyard.ie
• 22nd - 30th May 2016
  Fleadh Nua
  Ennis
  An 8 day festival of concerts, singing, sessions, set dancing and much more. www.fleadhnua.com
• 21st May 2016
  Burren Inspirational Walk
  The Burren at 10.30am
  Walkers participate actively in spiritual/inspirational walks in the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark. www.coisceimanama.ie
• 15th May 2016
  'The Edge of Moher and Beyond' - an Old Kilfarboy Society summer walk with Martina McCarthy
  Meet at Church Car Park in Miltown Malbay at 2 pm or, alternatively, at 3 pm Moher GAA Pitch, Moher, Liscannor
  The first in our summer season of walks will take place on Sunday, 15 May. 'The Edge of Moher and Beyond' will be lead by Martina McCarthy and will visit the townlands of Kilconnel, Ballylane and Ballyherragh (the edge of Moher). Meet at Church Car Park in Miltown Malbay at 2 pm or, alternatively, at 3 pm Moher GAA Pitch, Moher, Liscannor, Co. Clare and the cost is €5 per person. Appropriate footwear is advised! The guided walk will start at the Napoleonic Signal Tower at Hags Head and while taking in the best view of the Cliffs of Moher, local folklore and tales will be told about this site and Kilstapheen - the lost “Atlantis” of Liscannor Bay - which can be viewed from Hags Head. Stories of village life and death in the past will be discussed during a short walk from Hags Head through the townlands of Ballylane and Kilconnell where the local Cillin or Children’s Burial Ground is located. A quick detour will be made to Ballyherragh to view the site where the Zuniga (Armada Ship) is reputed to have taken shelter from the great Gale of September 1588. Stories of kelp harvesting, hag chasing, with a bit of geology, archaeology and codology thrown into the mix should make for an interesting tour!
• 14th May 2016
  Cultúrlann Sweeney presents ‘Atlantic’ by Inver Films
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
  'Atlantic’ is the latest documentary film from the makers of the award winning documentary ‘The Pipe’. ‘Atlantic’ follows the fortunes of three fishing communities united and divided by the Atlantic ocean, as they struggle to maintain their way of life despite mounting challenges within their own industry and environment, and an increase of oil exploration activities in their fishing grounds. On both sides of the Atlantic Ocean, new hydrocarbon frontiers are moving out into deeper water, and further north into the Arctic, pushing the boundaries of risk and technology in the race for the last great oil fields. The film charts the politics of resource management of the North Atlantic; from strong State control in Norway, mixed fortunes in Newfoundland, to a more liberal, privatised system in Ireland. ‘Atlantic’, through the experience of these coastal neighbours, poses the questions: who will benefit from the exploitation of these resources, and what are the consequences for the communities and the enviroment? Starts at 8pm. Tickets cost €5. Book on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 13 May 2016 – 16 June 2016
  ‘Monsters and Us’ Exhibition by Fionn Crombie Angus
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
  ‘Monsters and Us' is an exhibition of works by Fionn Crombie Angus, with help from his father Jonathan Angus. Fionn is interested in mythology and the stories of the peoples of the earth, modern and ancient. He loves outsiders, outliers, and one-of-a-kind originals. In the world of stories, those we call monsters often live on the dimly lit margins of society, cast there by the majority, who is made uncomfortable by what these ‘others’ say about homogenous, mainstream culture. In the political world of today, people who are labelled ‘Disabled’ are sometimes cast in a similar cultural role. People who consider themselves ‘normal’ are fearful of or take pity on those who carry this label. Our art explores this parallel. We work to identify ways in which, although only one of our two-person team has a disability label, we are both disabled (particularly though isolation) while at the same time made completely able by working together. We see this dynamic also in all people around us. The monsters in the shadows reside as well in our hearts. We cultivate relationships with these monsters wherever possible.This exhibition is part of the work of Fionnathan Productions, a not-for-profit Social Enterprise. Fionnathan exists to have fun and change the world, to trouble your understanding of ability, to reveal superstars in our midst, and to prove that, in fact, we are the people we've been waiting for. Through music, live presentations, videos, and visual arts, we seek to collaborate with diverse people who are passionate about what they do. The exhibition can be viewed during library opening hours.
• 13th - 18th May 2016
  Cliffs of Moher Seabirds Festival
  Please join us and marvel at more than 60,000 seabirds who reside at the Cliffs of Moher during the breeding season. Events taking place every day at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre
  Visitor Centre Opening hours: 9.00am – 7.30pm Sat & Sun 9.00am – 7.00pm Weekdays
  Download the Seabird Festival Flyer (pdf)
• 13th May 2016
  The Boruma Trio
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
  Andrew MacNamara is from the east Clare village of Tulla and is one of the leading exponents of the C#D accordion style. Eileen O’ Brien is from Nenagh and has been influenced greatly by her father, Paddy, who established the B/C accordion playing style in the 1950’s. Eileen says herself she plays the fiddle in the B/C style and when these two get together, sparks fly and Geraldine Cotter acts as referee and establishes the ground rules with her lovely piano accompanyment. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets cost €15 and €12(concession). Tickets can be purchased at the box office on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 12th May 2016
  An evening of Film, Chat and Song to commemorate the centenary of the death of James Connolly (1868-1916)
  Friel’s Pub, Miltown Malbay
  Special screeninng of The Death of James Connolly, with guest speaker Kevin Higgins (Poet).
• 12th May 2016
  Peadar Clancy: Clare’s Easter Rising Hero - a North Clare 1916 Centenary Group lecture by Cormac Ó Comhraí
  Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon at 7.30 pm
  Public lecture by author and historian, Cormac Ó Comhraí on the life and times of Peadar Clancy from Cranny, Co. Clare. Peadar played a leading role in the 1916 Rising and the Irish War of Independence. Born into a Fenian family in Cranny, west Clare, Peadar Clancy was one of the most significant revolutionaries to emerge from Clare during the twentieth century. He became involved at a young age with both Sinn Féin and the Gaelic League. A draper by trade he moved to Dublin in search of work. There he joined “C” Company, First Battalion of the Irish Volunteers. He fought in the Easter Rising, distinguished himself because of his bravery and was promoted in the field. Clancy was one of those sentenced to death after the Rising. He was spared, however, and was imprisoned in Britain. From then on he became an increasingly significant figure within republicanism. He was highly respected by the leadership and popular among the rank and file members of the IRA. He was also one of the militants who were determined to force a revolution and counted Dick McKee, Michael Collins and Dan Breen among his close friends. By 1920 he was Vice-Brigadier of the Dublin Brigade of the IRA. By the autumn of 1920 he was IRA Director of Munitions and a key planner of the attack on British intelligence agents on Bloody Sunday. Clancy was arrested hours before the Bloody Sunday attacks were to take place. Controversially he was killed in British custody the following day. Official reports alleged that he attempted to escape but republicans challenged this alleging torture and murder.
• 6th May - 2nd June 2016
  Changing Shadows - an exhibition of recent work by Gerry O’Mahony
  Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon
  Gerry O’Mahony is a graduate of LSAD Limerick. He has lived in Ireland, Israel and Malawi. On returning from Africa he became a member of one of Limerick’s first artist collectives (All + 10 sorts), and exhibited at length with the group. His first solo exhibition was in the Belltable Arts Centre, Limerick, and subsequently he has exhibited extensively both nationally and internationally. His work is in private and public collections in Ireland and abroad, including Limerick County and City Councils, Government buildings, Dublin, and Berlemonte Buildings, Brussels. His most recent show was at Draiocht, Blanchardstown Art Centre, Dublin in 2015. O’Mahony lives in County Clare and has been a member of Contact Studios, Limerick, since 2005. His upcoming solo show “Changing Shadows” is a combination of sculptural work and paintings, and the exhibition will be opened at 8pm on the 6th of May by Helena Close, a writer from Limerick.
• 6th May – 2nd June 2016
  Beyond the Lines - photography & digital art by Gerald Dunne
  Red Couch Space, Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon
  Gerald Dunne is a photographer, digital artist and fine art printer based in Quin, Co. Clare.
  His current exhibition "Beyond the Lines" aims to stir the subconscious in the same way as a flame or lapping water. A visual distraction allowing mental contemplation. Nature is at the core of the work, often the neglected details around us, brought to life by exploring the colours and forms just beyond our normal perception.
• 5th - 7th May 2016
  VOLTage
  glór, Ennis
  Clare County of Culture and glór in association with Age and Opportunity BEALTAINE 2016 are hosting a national event called VOLTage. The event will platform the many extraordinary projects and creative activities which bring together artists and older people from Clare and throughout Ireland. For full details click here (PDF). For bookings contact glór: E: boxoffice@glor.ie or info@glor.ie T: 065 6843103 www.glor.ie
• 1st May 2015
  ‘Bealtaine Birds Dawn Chorus Walk’, with Gordon D’Arcy, a Burrenbeo Trust May walk
  Village Store, Ballyvaughan at 5.30am
  The first walk of the 2016 Burren in Bloom festival and the May Burrenbeo walk will involve an early start with Gordon D’Arcy leading a group on a dawn chorus walk. Gordon is a Burren resident, natural historian, author & wildlife artist and will point out some of the Burren’s birds in the early morning light – they’ll hopefully put on a good show. The early morning will be made slightly easier by starting with coffee and a croissant from the Village Stores. On return from the walk, Logues Lodge is offering breakfast for the walkers for €14.50 – like the early bird you can catch the tasty worm! Meet at Village Store, Ballyvaughan at 5.30am (!). Please bring good walking shoes and waterproofs if needed. Also bring binoculars if you have a pair. No dogs allowed. The walk is open to everyone, although a reasonable level of fitness is required. It is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.

April

• 29th April - May 1st 2016
  ‘The Power of Vested Interests & the Law: A contemporary and Brehon perspective’
  Burren Law School, Ballyvaughan
  More info...
• 29th April 2016
  ‘Memory Triggers – 1916 and its aftermath’
  Clare Museum at 10 am and 11.30 am
  For Primary Schools. Guns, Medals, Memorabilia and Memory – a tour of Clare Museum which utilizes real objects from the museum to tell the history Clare during the period 1916-1923. Dr. Tomás Mac Conmara has shaped tours that meet the curricular aim of exposing pupils to the ‘work of a historian’. It will also enable the development of the relevant key skills and concepts including Time and chronology, Change and continuity, Cause and effect, Using evidence, Synthesis and communication and Empathy. These workshops will also will also assist in addressing a number of the key strand units which are included in the history programme, including ‘Myself and my family’, ‘Story’, ‘Life, society’, ‘culture in the past’ and ‘continuity and change over time’. These workshops are FREE to schools. Bookings for groups of up to 25 students can be made by emailing Clare Museum at claremuseum@clarecoco.ie
• 28th April 2016
  Poetry Readings in Kilkee
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
  Poetry Ireland is presenting Poetry Day Ireland on Thursday 28 April 2016. With this year's theme of Revolution, they have invited everyone to rebel, revolutionise and organise to make poetry inescapable and irrepressible for a day.Clare Arts Office is delighted to host a free poetry reading in Culturlann Sweeney, Kilkee at 8pm on Thursday.The event will feature well known Clare poet Patrick Stack, one of the main poets involved in The Poetry Collective. Deirdre Carr, visual artist and poet, will also read her poem 'Tweet Tweet Mothertongue -Fatherland Teanga Dhuchais-Talamh Athair Snapchattin' which accompanies her exhibition currently on show in the gallery in Culturlann Sweeney which explores 1916 and looks back at the events marking the foundation of the state so as to renew a collective sense of direction for the future. All are welcome to attend this free event and we welcome other poets who may wish to join our Revolution and read from their work on the night. For further information contact: arts@clarelibrary.ie 065 6899091
• 25th April 2016
  The North Clare Historical Society presents “The Macnamaras: Landlords of Doolin and Ennistymon, 1700 to 1922”, a talk by Colm Hayes
  The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon at 8pm
  This illustrated talk will recount the story of the Macnamara family who rose from being transplanted Catholics during the Cromwellian conquests to become one of the biggest landowners in County Clare at the beginning of the 20th century. Colm Hayes is a native of Ennistymon and comes from an old Ennistymon family. He has operated a printing and stationery business in the town for over 40 years. He has had a lifetime interest in local history and was a founder member of the Old Ennistymon Society in the 1990s. He has edited a number of local publications including the popular Ennistymon Parish Magazine from the 1980s to 2002. Admission €5
• 21st April 2016
  Annual end of year Art Show by the PLC students of Ennistymon Vocational School
  Courthouse Gallery Ennistymon
  The annual end of year Art Show by the PLC students of Ennistymon Vocational School is opening this Thursday April 21st at 7pm. The exhibition will be running until April 28th in the Courthouse Gallery Ennistymon, and will be open every day from 12 noon to 4pm, except Sundays. The exhibition is a culmination of the students’ years work. The title and theme of the exhibition is 'Leap' which represents the many ways the students looked at their art this year. The collection demonstrates the self expression and skills development of the course participants and this is clearly seen in the variety and exploration of media and subject matter, culminating in an artistic ‘leap’ of discovery towards new horizons, and the sharing of ideas and inspiration. Ceramics, sculpture, textiles, painting and drawing unite to make an eclectic, bold and exciting body of work reflecting the breadth of the course. The QQI/FETAC Level 5 and 6 Art course in Ennistymon are full time one year courses running from September to May each year. They are open to anyone who has an interest in, and wishes to expand their knowledge and skills in art. The course is always well subscribed and appeals to both mature students and school leavers who wish to explore their creativity or embark on art as a career. The recent move of the group to the old Blue Frog Cafe building has afforded the group greater creative space and is a real asset for future groups. If you are interested in joining the group this September contact Ennistymon Vocational School on 065 7071375 http://www.artroomennistymonvs.blogspot.com/
• 16th April 2016
  After ‘16
  Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee
  AFTER ’16 is a once-off initiative from Bord Scannán na hÉireann/the Irish Film Board with a view to commemorating, celebrating and ruminating on 1916 and how the events of Easter Sunday and beyond forged the landscape of the century that followed. The Irish Film Board commissioned filmmakers to give their response to 1916 and the hundred years since. The result is a series of stories, both fact and fiction, which illuminate, surprise and provoke - on the wide subject of 1916 and what it has left in its wake. These films are ambitious and imaginative, a mix of contemporary and period, live action and animation, and both English and Irish language. This is a free event but with assigned seating. Starts at 8pm. Ring the box office on 065 9060769 to reserve your seats, or reserve online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 15th April 2016
  ‘Memory Triggers – 1916 and its aftermath’
  Clare Museum at 10 am and 11.30 am
  For Primary Schools. Guns, Medals, Memorabilia and Memory – a tour of Clare Museum which utilizes real objects from the museum to tell the history Clare during the period 1916-1923. Dr. Tomás Mac Conmara has shaped tours that meet the curricular aim of exposing pupils to the ‘work of a historian’. It will also enable the development of the relevant key skills and concepts including Time and chronology, Change and continuity, Cause and effect, Using evidence, Synthesis and communication and Empathy. These workshops will also will also assist in addressing a number of the key strand units which are included in the history programme, including ‘Myself and my family’, ‘Story’, ‘Life, society’, ‘culture in the past’ and ‘continuity and change over time’. These workshops are FREE to schools. Bookings for groups of up to 25 students can be made by emailing Clare Museum at claremuseum@clarecoco.ie
• 14th April 2016
  ‘How to be an Archaeologist’
  Clare Museum, Ennis
  Clare Museum has organized a number of workshops for Transition Year Students for Secondary Schools providing information on how Archaeologists carry out their work. An Archaeologist from TVAS Archaeological Consultancy will give a power point presentation to students. This will be followed by some practical experience and students will carry out a dig in excavation boxes, allowing students to learn about archaeological excavation, sectioning, and recording an archaeological excavation. Where it is possible, real archaeological objects will be used in the excavation boxes.

March

• 29th March to 2nd April 2016
  Kilrush Choral Society presents The King & I
  Kilrush Community School
  This year in its 12th production, it is an all local cast, which includes 21 Primary School children, 16 Secondary School Teenagers, plus 14 Main Principles. Tickets go on sale On Monday next 21st March from 11am to 4pm, at a box office in Henry Street, (next to Gypsy Girl shop).
• 25th March 2016
  Dublin Burning – a show by Brendan Begley and Mike Hanrahan
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Brendan Begley and Mike Hanrahan have created a show called Dublin Burning, which tells a story of Ireland’s 1916 rising through songs, music, poetry and stories of the era spanning 1890 to 1916. They have taken songs so familiar to generations of Irish people and shone an extra light on their significance for example songs such as Oro se de Bheatha Bhaile, A Nation Once Again and A Soldiers Song. They are not historians but two writers, musician and singers who happened to read a small library concerning a group of extraordinary people, men and women who lived in Ireland around a hundred years ago. Ireland was a country in a cultural revolution celebrating the rebirth of its language, music, song, art, history and folklore against a backdrop of British rule. They believed along with many other Irish men and Irish women, irrespective of religion or class, that the natural progression of a cultural revolution could only lead to a free and independent Republic of Ireland. In their research they discovered songs, stories and incredible characters who took part in an armed revolution that would change Ireland for ever more. In a week, Dublin burned with desire, passion, anger, sadness and pride. It was a momentous time in history and through the show Dublin Burning the hope is it will draw people to the story, educate, entertain and start a ripple that will send them away seeking more information and understanding of a very poignant, powerful, sad, sometimes gruesome, heroic and extremely important period of history. You can see the show Dublin Burning in Culturlann Sweeney Kilkee on Friday the 25th March 2016 at 8pm. Tickets cost €20 /€18 concession and can be booked on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 23rd March 2016
  North Clare Links to the 1916 Rising - A North Clare Historical Society Talk
  The Courthouse, Ennistymon at 8pm
  Colm Hayes will talk on Irish Republican Brotherhood and Volunteer Activities in North Clare prior to 1916 while Mick O’Connor will narrate the story of Gaelic League man, Eamonn Waldron’s arrest in Ennistymon in the days after the Rising. More information...
• 18th March - 14th April 2016
  'Hem' by Fiona O'Dwyer
  Ennistymon Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon
  Since graduating in Fine Art /Sculpture from Limerick School Of Art and Design in 1989 Fiona O'Dwyer has spent over twenty years developing a distinctive practice in multi-media utilising film and drawing in her work which deals with notions of time, memory and displacement. She works from a studio in Ennistymon, Co. Clare, Ireland, which she built herself.
• 18th March - 14th April 2016
  'Neither Rhyme Nor Reason' - Art work by Patsy Ricks & Aoife Murray
  Red Couch Space, Ennistymon Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon
  This collaboration between mother and daughter Patsy Ricks and Aoife Murray is about where our minds take us. Patsy sees the beauty in the everyday things that would probably go un-noticed, and tries to capture that on paper or canvas. Aoife is a freelance SFX makeup artist, interested in fantasy and the surreal and is currently training in prosthetic and postiche.
• 15th March 2016
  ‘Memory Triggers – 1916 and its aftermath’
  Clare Museum at 11.30am
  For Primary Schools. Guns, Medals, Memorabilia and Memory – a tour of Clare Museum which utilizes real objects from the museum to tell the history Clare during the period 1916-1923. Dr. Tomás Mac Conmara has shaped tours that meet the curricular aim of exposing pupils to the ‘work of a historian’. It will also enable the development of the relevant key skills and concepts including Time and chronology, Change and continuity, Cause and effect, Using evidence, Synthesis and communication and Empathy. These workshops will also will also assist in addressing a number of the key strand units which are included in the history programme, including ‘Myself and my family’, ‘Story’, ‘Life, society’, ‘culture in the past’ and ‘continuity and change over time’. These workshops are FREE to schools. Bookings for groups of up to 25 students can be made by emailing Clare Museum at claremuseum@clarecoco.ie
• 10th March, 2016
  ‘How to be an Archaeologist’
  Clare Museum, Ennis
  Clare Museum has organized a number of workshops for Transition Year Students for Secondary Schools providing information on how Archaeologists carry out their work. An Archaeologist from TVAS Archaeological Consultancy will give a power point presentation to students. This will be followed by some practical experience and students will carry out a dig in excavation boxes, allowing students to learn about archaeological excavation, sectioning, and recording an archaeological excavation. Where it is possible, real archaeological objects will be used in the excavation boxes.
• 08 March - 01 April 2016
  Chasing The Light
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Shannon Camera Club members are delighted to exhibit a selection of their work at Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee from the 8th March to 1st April 2016 under the exhibition title 'Chasing the Light'. There will be 40 images exhibited from 20 of the clubs members, some recently enrolled but others who have been with the club for many years.
• 8th March 2016
  Clare ‘Herstory’ - International Women’s Day
  Clare Museum
  To mark International Women’s Day, Clare historian Dr Tomás Mac Conmara will give two workshops that will shed light on the hidden role that Clare women played in events in Clare that will be commemorated during the Decade of Centenaries. Workshops are at 10 am and 11.30 am and places are limited to a maximum of 35 per workshop. Bookings can be made by email only: claremuseum@clarecoco.ie
• 8th March 2016
  Old Kilfarboy Society presents ‘The Brig St. John’ by John Bhaba Jeaic Ó Conghaile
  The Malbay, Miltown Malbay at 8pm
  The final talk in the Old Kilfarboy Society winter series will be given by John Bhaba Jeaic Ó Conghaile and is titled ‘The Brig St. John’. The talk will discuss the tragic events of the sinking of the famine ship the Brig St. John off the coast of Massachusetts in October 1849. Many of those lost were from County Clare and original research by John Bhaba Jeaic will also reveal other Clare connections. John Bhaba Jeaic is a local historian, from Connemara, who is centrally involved in the Lettermullen & Garumna Heritage Centre. Non-members €5. All are welcome.
• 6th March 2016
  'Spring awakening on Glencolumbkille’- a Burrenbeo Trust walk with Patrick McCormack
  Meet at the layby of Glencolumbkille Hill, on Carron-Boston road (OS51 N309 W998) at 2pm
  Join us for March’s Burrenbeo Trust walk led by Patrick McCormack who has an in-depth knowledge of the folklore, history and the culture of times bygone in the Carron Hills. Patrick himself is a poet and an organic farmer. 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 Glencolumbkille Hill, on the Carron-Boston road (OS51 N309 W998). This walk is off-road and will include some significant declines and climbs, so please wear appropriate footwear, be of reasonable fitness and bring waterproofs if needed. The walk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. In case of bad weather which may affect the walk please check our website or Facebook page for the latest updates. The start point is marked on Google Maps here or can be found by searching the coordinates 53.04264, -9.02902. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
• 4th-6th March 2016
  10th Ennis Book Club Festival
  In 2016 the Ennis Book Club Festival runs from March 4th-6th and will celebrate its 10th anniversary, having attracted some 30,000 attendees to Ennis over its ten year history. The Festival aims to promote and celebrate reading. Each year, readers both from Ireland and further afield, come to Ennis to share the joy of reading. Audiences include avid readers, those who haven’t had the time to pick up a book in some years, those with a keen interest in current affairs, those who are simply looking to be inspired...the aim is to meet each of their different expectations! Not only does the Festival include author readings and discussions, it also offers discussions on topical affairs, workshops, poetry readings, theatre and walking tours through the historic streets of Ennis. This year some of the highlights include an evening with Marian Keyes and Fiona Looney; sublime music with the Vanbrugh Quartet; poets Doireann Ní Ghríofa and Leanne O’Sullivan; the hugely popular '10 Books You Should Read' session with Diarmaid Ferriter and Catríona Crowe; why not join the versatile Happy Pear team for some enticing healthy-eating tips for the year ahead; topping the bill on Saturday evening, special guests poet Lemn Sissay and BBC correspondent Kate Adie and the Sunday Symposium double-bill – 'A Nation and Not a Rabble' with Diarmaid Ferriter and the provocatively entitled 'Do It Like a Woman!'. As you can see, there’s loads to choose from and great value ticket packages on offer. Special accommodation offers are available through many local hotels. Book early to avail of Festival deals and great hospitality. Full details on the festival website www.ennisbookclubfestival.com with tickets on sale through glór Box Office: www.glor.ie Tel: 065 6843103
• 3rd March, 2016
  ‘How to be an Archaeologist’
  Clare Museum, Ennis
  Clare Museum has organized a number of workshops for Transition Year Students for Secondary Schools providing information on how Archaeologists carry out their work. An Archaeologist from TVAS Archaeological Consultancy will give a power point presentation to students. This will be followed by some practical experience and students will carry out a dig in excavation boxes, allowing students to learn about archaeological excavation, sectioning, and recording an archaeological excavation. Where it is possible, real archaeological objects will be used in the excavation boxes.

February

• 29th February 2016
  North Clare Historical Society presents “Life in a North Clare townland in the 19th century” by Martin Barry
  The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon at 8pm
  This lecture will look at life in a North Clare townland in the 19th century. Some of the issues that will be dealt with include landownership and land tenure as well as a general discussion on landlord tenant relationships. The lecture will also focus on population, educational, emigration, cultural and social patterns in the townland during the 19th century. Martin comes from the townland of Drinagh about six miles from Ennistymon. He has had a lifelong interest in history and particularly local history. Recently he returned to education and qualified from the University of Limerick with an honours degree having majored in history. He has conducted tours to local areas of historical interest and has also contributed a number of articles to the historical journal The Other Clare. Currently he works as a tour guide at the Cliffs of Moher advising visitors on the history of the local area. Admission €5.
• 19th February - 10th March 2016
  ‘Traces & Treks’ - Artwork by Antonio Lopez and Declan Kelly
  Ennistymon Courthouse Gallery
  The Courthouse Gallery is delighted to present the joint exhibition “Traces & Treks” – ‘Artwork by visual artists Antonio Lopez and Declan Kelly’. “Traces & Treks” features a selection of works that focuses on the journey made by the artists, the places remembered and changed by their personal experiences through reflection, observation and investigation. Antonio Julio López Castro was born in Madrid and moved to Ireland in 1996. He currently lives and works in Co. Cork. Declan Kelly currently lives and works in Drogheda. He works as a secondary school teacher, a visual artist and is also a founding member, co-director and curator with NeXus Arts.
• 12th -14th February 2016
  4th Annual Oidhreacht an Chlair Concertina Cruinniú
  Miltown Malbay
  Events include concertina classes, lectures, recitals and repair workshops. The weekend caters for all levels including adult only beginner and a master class with Noel Hill. There is also a free concertina trail in the pubs throughout the town during the weekend. Tickets available online at www.oac.ie. Early bird registration €50 until January 31st 2016
• 9th February 2016
  ‘The Priest and the Submarine man’ - an Old Kilfarboy Society talk by Michael Conneely
  The Malbay, Miltown Malbay at 8pm.
  The Old Kilfarboy Society is delighted to welcome Michael Conneely as the next speaker in this series of talks. In 'The Priest and the Submarine Man', Michael will discuss the contribution Liscannor native, John Philip Holland, made to the development of the submarine. Michael will also trace Holland's influence on the Wright Brothers and their historic flight. Holland started out on his journey of discovery by studying bird-flight at the Cliffs of Moher and his interest in flight allowed him to make his seminal contribution to aero/hydro dynamics. Michael Conneely is a graduate of NUI Galway, an Associate of the Royal Institute of Naval Architects and a contributor to newspapers, magazines and radio on the subject of maritime archaeology and history.
• 7th February 2016
  'The Hill is Red, The Wood is Damp; Cooloorta and its famine landscape’, a Burrewnbeo Trust Talk with Tony Kirby
  The Famine Road, Coolorta at 2pm
  Tony Kirby is a Limerick city native. He lives in Kilnaboy and works as a walking tourism operator in the Burren. He is the author of the book “The Burren and the Aran Islands A Walking Guide”. Tony blogs about Burren life at www.heartofburrenwalks.com. He is particularly interested in the pilgrimage landscape of the Burren. The walk will include commentaries on the remarkable Famine landscape of Cooloorta, the ancient festival of Imbolg plus the crag lands and wet lands of the south-east of the Burren. This walk, while not strenuous, will last for about 2 hours and will be on limestone pavement so please wear good walking boots/shoes, warm clothes, waterproofs etc. Please note the start point can be reached from Kilnaboy, Carron or from the Gort/Corofin road - see directions below. However access from the Gort/Corofin road is prone to flooding so please check this beforehand. The walk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. In case of bad weather which may affect the walk please check our website or Facebook page for the latest updates. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096. The start point is marked on Google Maps here or can be found by searching the coordinates 53.016899, -8.981327.

January

• 30th January 2016
  Benefit concert in aid of Irish Seed Savers
  Ryan’s Pub, Scariff
  On Saturday the 23rd of January 2016, a special evening of world music featuring musician Frank Bouchier will take place in Ryan’s pub in Scariff. Organised by Irish Seed Savers Association, all proceeds will go towards building a new education building and launching an Elearning course. This will allow us to continue to empower people both locally and globally to have their own food security and to raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity for our planet’s future. €10 tickets are available in Ryan's Centra, The Grainey and Irish Seed Savers.
• 16th January 2016
  Oidhreacht an Chlair presents Séan Keane and Band along with many special guests including PJ Murrihy
  The Armada Hotel, Spanish Pointat 8:30pm.
  Tickets available online at www.oac.ie, at the Music Makers of West Clare and various locations in Miltown Malbay.
• 14th January 2016
  The excavation of a wedge tomb on Roughan Hill, the Burren, County Clare - an illustrated talk by archaeologist Ros O’Maolduin
  X-PO KILLINABOY at 8.30 pm.
  The densest concentration of wedge tombs in Ireland is on the Burren in Co. Clare and the densest cluster in that concentration is on Roughan Hill. This talk will describe the results from the first excavation of a wedge tomb in this significant cluster and discuss its relevance to our understanding of Early Bronze Age society in Ireland. The X-PO is located in the former post office in Kilnaboy. It is a community hub for social and cultural activities. All are welcome to the talk. More information 087 292 54 87.
• 12th January - 6th February 2016
  Compostela - Field of Stars
  Clare Museum, Ennis
  Marianne Slevin’s mixed media works ‘Compostela-Field of Stars’ can be viewed in the Clare Museum from January 12th – February 6th, 2016. Her work features improvisations and explorations of chance in ink and oil paint on various surfaces. They are mainly 2 dimensional drawings and paintings, but some found and everyday objects are turned into art objects with her use of ink. The drawings are experimental and made using a combination of chance, intuition and feeling. In some cases Marianne uses the elements such as the wind or a leak in the kitchen window to create the drawings. She also uses the ‘accidental’ in her work, such as an ink spillage on the stone floor. Other times she devises games of chance, rolling objects that hold meaning for her, like a fortune teller, and drawing around them to reveal a visual map. She often works in ways where she has very little control, and the environment she is in, her own body and intuition have a chance to play, rather than the decisions being made only using her head.
• 12th January 2016
  'Kilrush and County Clare recruiting committees during the First World War', an Old Kilfarboy Society talk by Paul O’Brien
  The Malbay, Miltown Malbay, at 8pm
  This talk is based on the Glynn family papers, and includes an examination of diaries, government propaganda and letters penned by Kilrush men from the Front. As part of the Glynn collection relates to the Glynn family's role as recruiters for the British Army during the First World War, Paul's illustrated talk will examine that role and focus on some of the West Clare enlisters in the army. The role of Fr. Hannon, Parish Priest of Miltown Malbay, is also examined. From Kilrush, Paul O’Brien recently completed his doctoral thesis at Mary Immaculate College, University of Limerick. The talk takes place on Tuesday, 12 January, at 8pm, in the Malbay, Miltown Malbay. All are welcome. €5 non-members.
• 3rd January 2016
  Welcome in the New Year on Blackhead - a Burrenbeo Trust Walk
  Meet at St Patrick's Church, Fanore, at 1.30pm
  Join the Burrenbeo Trust and friends, including various Burren experts, for a chance to burn off some of those Christmas excesses. The first monthly walk of 2016 will be an energetic walk along the green road at Fanore up to Cathair Dun Irghus. The walk begins at the earlier start time of 1.30 pm from Fanore Church. Please wear strong walking shoes, warm waterproof clothes and bring water / snacks - this will be a strenuous walk - No dogs allowed. The walk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. In case of bad weather which may affect the walk please check our website or Facebook page for the latest updates. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
  

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 2015, Events Calendar 2014, Events Calendar 2013, 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