Culture

  One of Europe’s most celebrated music events, the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, has launched its 2025 programme, which takes place this October Bank Holiday weekend (23–27 October). Now in its 47th year, the festival will feature a world-class line-up that spans jazz, funk, soul, hip-hop, and electronic innovation, with global icons and cutting-edge new talent. Headliners already announced include Cymande, JP Cooper, Orchestra Baobab,...

The ancient art of oral storytelling is having a renaissance worldwide, and Ireland is leading the way.   Seanchoiche Event, Dublin City. Ireland is an island of storytellers. Even the most mundane event, when recounted to a group of friends, is embellished for maximum impact with the listeners willing to forgo a bit of accuracy for the reward of being entertained. The love...

  Killarney will raise a glass to amazing liquids as the inaugural Kerry Drinks Festival makes its debut on Saturday, 15th November 2025, at Killarney Racecourse. A celebration of flavour and craftsmanship, the festival promises a one-of-a-kind tasting experience, showcasing the rich diversity of the country's drinks industry—from whiskeys and gins to craft beers, ciders, vodkas, liqueurs, and much more. Proudly sponsored...

A Taste of History: The story behind a timeless County Kerry whiskey Discover a place where the past blends seamlessly with the present at this lakeside distillery, steeped in connections to one of Ireland’s most famous political figures… Maurice O’Connell of Wayward Irish Spirits is a busy man, but he always finds time to talk about his “three-times great grand-uncle” Dan,...

Exploring the Northern Irish Landscapes That Inspired Literary Legends With stories around every corner, Northern Ireland is a real page-turner of a destination. I have known and loved this area since childhood and have written about it – or rather, out of it – often. These prescient words come from Seamus Heaney, whose poetry collection North became the toast of poets and...

Reviving romance: the magic of matchmaking in County Clare In an age of digital dating, one Irish town is dedicated to finding love the old-fashioned way, with a matchmaking festival that’s been bringing people together for more than 165 years Each September, as the silage is cut and the summer crowds drift home, something unique happens near the Burren region of...

Ireland’s equine excellence showcased in new immersive Horse Country experiences. Discover the passion and skills that have made Ireland a world leader in thoroughbred breeding and racing through 15 unique equine experiences. Ireland is an island of horse lovers, and its extraordinary equine heritage is internationally recognised. Irish-bred thoroughbred horses, racehorse trainers and jockeys are among the most accomplished on...

Trad mad? Beat a path to Wexford for the Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann. The world’s biggest celebration of traditional Irish music and culture is an unforgettable experience for musicians and spectators alike. Wexford town in Ireland’s Ancient East is tuning up for the 2025 Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, which will welcome over 650,000 people to a sensational...

2025 marks the 600th birthday of Bunratty Castle, one of Ireland’s most authentic and complete castles. Whether you choose to wander its ramparts, raise a goblet at a medieval banquet or stroll its beautiful walled garden, there’s never been a better time to visit Six hundred years ago, stonemasons were at work along the River Ratty in south County Clare....

Fairy tale-like stays, magical attractions, friendly locals – the island’s unique experiences and Valentine’s Day are a match made in heaven The perfect way to start a Valentine’s weekend? It’s got to be with a visit to Dublin. After all, the relics of St Valentine are enshrined in Whitefriar Street Church in Dublin. Gifted to an Irish Carmelite priest in...