Festivals and Events
The Russell Memorial Weekend Doolin
The Russell Memorial Weekend is held in the last full weekend of February each year. It is a traditional festival which commemorates the outstanding contribution of the Russell Family of Doolin to traditional Irish music in Ireland. Micho Russell was one of Ireland's best know traditional Irish musicians and he died in 1994. Together with his brothers, Gussie and Packie, he played for house dances and in the village pubs of Doolin. Later he toured all over Europe and the States performing at concerts. He was also a renowned music teacher and he participated regularly at the Willie Clancy Summer School in Miltown Malbay.
http://www.michorussellweekend.ie/
Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival
For over 150 years, the famous Matchmaking Festival has taken place in the town of Lisdoonvarna, just 3km from Doolin. It is a spa town which is also famous for its mineral springs. Over 40,000 visitors come to Lisdoonvarna in the month of September, some hoping to meet their perfect partner, others simply looking for some good friendly fun. The festival takes place at the weekends in September and events include traditional Irish music and dance, speed-dating and horse-racing.
http://www.matchmakerireland.com
Willie Clancy Summer School
During the first week in July, almost one thousand students attend daily classes in the Willie Clancy Summer School in Miltown Malbay, North Clare. Traditional musicians and singers, of all levels and with every type of instrument, take part in workshops and classes over the course of the week. For those not attending the school itself, a visit to Miltown during this week is highly recommended because of the spontaneous music sessions that take place on the streets and in the pubs during the day and night.
http://www.discoverireland.com
