It's A Place Apart
West Cork Festivals and Events
Whatever time of the year you visit West Cork, there is always something going on! Listed below are some of the festivals that take place in West Cork annually.
Look out for posters and adverts for exact dates and details of these festivals. For full details of events and festivals happening in West Cork, pick up a copy of the monthly free paper, West Cork People.
MAY
The Baltimore Fiddle Fair is a festival that celebrates world-class traditional music by presenting national and international acts in a very intimate setting in the beautiful seaside village of Baltimore. It features quality acts from all over the world. It is one of the most eagerly awaited traditional music festivals of the year in Ireland. www.fiddlefair.com
The Fastnet Short Film Festival is an independent festival in Schull dedicated to bringing together established and first-time filmmakers in a forum to celebrate the short film. www.fastnetshortfilmfestival.com
JUNE
The sound of the uilleann pipes takes centre-stage in the picturesque village of Glengarriff with a festival of great music to beat them all. www.jimdowlingfestival.ie
Bantry Walking Festival is on the June Bank Holiday Weekend – expert guides lead treks along the Sheep’s Head Way, around Whiddy Island, and along the shores of Bantry Bay. www.bantrywalkingfestival.com
The Michael O’Dwyer Tin Whistle Festival in Allihies is a celebration of the renowned musician, who lived in the Ardgroom area of Beara.
The West Cork Islands Festival is an actioned packed weekend where you can learn all about the heritage and history of these magical Islands and enjoy wonderful local food & walks. www.westcorkislands.com
The West Cork Chamber Music Festival, Bantry welcomes a star-studded cast of international musicians. Concerts take place from morning to late night in Bantry House and St Brendan’s Church with workshops and masterclasses. www.westcorkmusic.ie
JULY
West Cork Garden Trail is an annual event that is a highlight of the Irish gardening year, giving an opportunity to view the beautiful and diverse gardens of West Cork. www.westcorkgardentrail.com
The South of Ireland Band Championships is one of the most prestigious events in the brass band calendar for participants and bands alike. Fantastic festive weekend in Clonakilty full of music, puppet shows, face painting, street entertainment, recitals and lots more. See www.clonakilty.ie
Courtmacsherry Harbour Festival is a friendly family festival. The highlight of the week is Regatta Day and it is full with events, which provide excellent visual displays for all involved. www.courtmacsherry.ie
Eyeries Family Festival in July has a host of activities, live music and craic go leor for all ages happening in and around the village.
The West Cork Literary Festival, Bantry showcases the best of Irish and international literature. www.westcorkliteraryfestival.ie
The Glandore Regatta is an ideal opportunity to experience a fine mix of coastal yacht racing and West Corks finest hospitality. www.glandoreyc.com
AUGUST
The Masters of Tradition Festival, Bantry showcases the best of Irish and international traditional music. www.westcorkmusic.ie
Timoleague Harvest Festival This ten day harvest festival with live music, competitions and amusements. www.timoleague.ie
Castletownbere Festival of the Sea is a family-friendly event with live music, food and activities for days on end. For details see www.castletownbere.ie
SEPTEMBER
Courtmacsherry Storytelling Festival Lovely weekend of storytelling and music which takes place in the three pubs and one hotel in the village. www.courtmacsherry.ie
The Cape Clear Island International Storytelling Festival is a lovely weekend of storytelling in September on Cape Clear Island. www.capeclearstorytelling.com
Clonakilty Guitar Festival The weekend comprises of workshops, live music on the streets, concerts exhibitions and performances by top internationally renowned acts. www.debarra.ie
DECEMBER
Clonakilty Waterfront Marathon is a beautiful scenic run. See www.runclon.ie for more information.