Category: Visit | Sligo.ie

Partnership and progress celebrated at Ireland West Airport regional tourism event

Ireland West Airport, local authorities and tourism agencies come together to support growth across the West and Northwest

Ireland West Airport welcomed representatives from its seven local authority partners, tourism agencies and regional stakeholders on Tuesday, 29th September, for a successful event celebrating the partnerships supporting tourism, connectivity and economic development across the West and Northwest of Ireland.

Held at the airport under the theme “Powering the West Together: Partnership and Progress”, the event brought together Mayo, Sligo, Roscommon, Leitrim and Donegal County Councils, Galway County Council and Galway City Council, alongside Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland, to explore opportunities for further regional growth through collaboration.

Taking place in the airport’s 40th anniversary year, the gathering recognised the progress achieved through this shared regional approach and the importance of strengthening those relationships as the airport prepares for its next chapter.

The event was opened by Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment and at the Department of Climate, Energy & the Environment, Alan Dillon TD and Councillor John Caulfield, Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, with travel journalist Eoghan Corry moderating presentations and three panel discussions which brought together representatives from the airport, local authorities and tourism agencies to explore the airport’s economic impact, the development of regional tourism experiences and opportunities for joint overseas promotion. The sessions highlighted the value of a coordinated regional approach to attracting visitors and supporting sustainable growth across the West and Northwest.

Commenting on the event, Martin Lydon, Chief Executive, Sligo County Council, said

“Ireland West Airport is a key gateway to Sligo and the Northwest, supporting tourism, business and regional development. The success highlighted at this event reflects the strength of collaboration between the airport, local authorities and tourism agencies. Sligo County Council is proud to be part of that partnership and remains committed to working together to grow sustainable tourism and create economic opportunities across the region.”

John Rogers of RED C Research presented consumer research and passenger insights into the airport’s contribution to economic and tourism growth highlighting in particular the increased number of visitors coming to the Sligo region for holiday purposes using the airport as the access point. Sligo is now the 3^rd most popular county for overseas visitors coming to the region using Ireland West Airport as a gateway with visitors staying an average of 6 nights in Sligo when they visit the region.

Miriam Kennedy of Fáilte Ireland explored the development of a strong, sustainable regional tourism offering, while Aisling McDermott of Tourism Ireland showcased successful partnership campaigns in 2026 and outlined opportunities for the airport and its regional partners to work together on overseas promotions into the future. A central message throughout the event was that international air access, compelling visitor experiences and coordinated promotion must work together to deliver lasting benefits for communities and businesses across the region.

Welcoming guests, Arthur French, Chairman of Ireland West Airport, acknowledged the seven local authorities’ investment in the airport in 2017, describing it as “a vote of confidence in the airport, its future, and the role it could play in supporting economic development, tourism and connectivity”. He highlighted practical outcomes of the partnership, including the airport’s Visitor Discovery Centre, collaboration on the Strategic Development Zone, the Age Friendly Airport initiative with Mayo County Council, and joint trade and networking events in key overseas markets such as Germany and Italy.

With the airport expecting to welcome one million passengers in 2026 for the first time in its history, the event provided an opportunity to look ahead to the infrastructure, connectivity and partnerships needed to sustain further growth.

Mr French emphasised the importance of continued collaboration between the airport, local authorities and Central Government to support the airports plans to grow to 2 million annual passengers over the next ten years “This investment will require continued and increasing support and collaboration from the Government and our local authority partners. It is about supporting jobs. It is about growing tourism. It is about attracting investment, and fundamentally, it is about providing strong and sustainable regional development. This spirit of collaboration is what has brought us to where we are today, and it will shape the future of tourism, transport, and regional development in our region”.

The event had strong representation from local Councillors across the 7 local authorities which contributed to a morning of positive and constructive engagement throughout the event.

Commenting on the event, Joe Gilmore, Managing Director of Ireland West Airport, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome our seven local authority partners, Tourism Ireland, Fáilte Ireland, REDC and colleagues from across the region for such a positive and engaging event. The discussions demonstrated a shared ambition for the West and Northwest and the value of working together to turn that ambition into progress. Our local authority partners have played a vital role in the airport’s development, while our collaboration with the tourism agencies helps connect international visitors with the exceptional experiences our region offers. As we celebrate our 40^th anniversary and look towards welcoming one million passengers, we have much to be proud of and an exciting future to plan for together. By continuing to strengthen these partnerships, we can grow tourism, support local businesses and employment, and ensure the benefits of a thriving international gateway are felt throughout the region”.

Waking Maeve book published by Seamus McGoldrick

Waking Maeve: an excavation of Sligo’s landscape, myth and history explores the people, myths and landscapes that have shaped one of Ireland’s most significant sacred precincts.

Sligo surf pioneer, former physics student and three-time national champion Seamus Mc Goldrick has turned his attention from the huge waves of Mullaghmore to the ancient landscape of his native county with the publication of Waking Maeve: an excavation of Sligo’s landscape, myth and history.

Mc Goldrick grew up at the foot of Knocknarea, in the shadow of Queen Maeve’s Grave, the local name for Meascán Méadhbha, the largest unexcavated Neolithic cairn in Ireland, thought to conceal a passage tomb. He learned to surf in Strandhill as a child, surrounded by a landscape containing some of Ireland’s most extraordinary prehistoric monuments, and learned at an early age the myths and stories of Coolera.

The result is Waking Maeve, an ambitious journey through Sligo’s past, bringing together archaeology, mythology, history, literature and the lives of the people who have shaped the northwest of Ireland.

“I grew up in the orbit of Knocknarea in a village that was the hub of nineties surfing in Ireland,” says Mc Goldrick. “The landscape was as extraordinary as the waves, but I became hungry to know more about the mysterious cairns built by my ancestors at Knocknarea, Carrowmore and Carns Hill. Writing Waking Maeve led me to better understand the people who built these monuments and how they shape how we see Sligo today. Now it is time to share these stories.”

The book’s guiding light is Queen Maeve, one of the great figures of Irish mythology and Connacht’s best-remembered ancient warrior. Local tradition says Maeve is buried under the great cairn of Knocknarea, but the full story is richer and more revealing. Maeve ruled from her power base in Rathcroghan in County Roscommon, sixty kilometres from the enormous Meascán Méadhbha, which Knocknarea expert Stefan Bergh says has no match in Ireland.

The Coolera Peninsula contains an extraordinary concentration of prehistoric monuments. Of the approximately 250 passage tombs in Ireland, around 70 are found on the Coolera Peninsula, where much of Ireland’s ancient history is cradled between Knocknarea, Carns Hill and Carrowmore. For Mc Goldrick, the archaeological evidence shows Sligo was central to the development of ancient Ireland.

Stefan Bergh calls the Coolera Peninsula the ‘Landscape of Monument’. In Waking Maeve, Seamus explores the connection between the Neolithic monument builders and the Sligo landscape itself, which later ignited the cultural vision of poet W.B. Yeats.

From the mysterious passage tombs of Knocknarea and Carrowmore to the enormous swells that break at Mullaghmore, Waking Maeve carries readers on a rolling wave from the Stone Age to the era of rock ’n’ roll. Along the way, readers encounter kings and queens, saints and Vikings, poets and rebels, shipwrecks, surfers and dreamers who left their mark on one of Ireland’s most extraordinary landscapes.

An adventurous West of Ireland upbringing led Mc Goldrick towards becoming a chronicler of Sligo. He joined the Irish surfing team aged 15 and studied physics at Trinity College Dublin before becoming one of Ireland’s pioneering surfers and establishing Sligo Surf Experience, located in the National Surf Centre in Strandhill.

As a three-time national surf champion, he has ridden many of the best waves on the Wild Atlantic Way, including the frightening swells that break at the now world-famous Mullaghmore Head.

Today, he combines his ocean-based surf lifestyle with a growing passion for the history and heritage of the landscape in which he grew up.

“Surfing teaches you to look closely at the environment and embrace it, rain or shine,” Mc Goldrick says. “You learn to read the sea, the wind, the tide and the coast.

Writing this book was another way of learning to read the Sligo landscape. Like surfing, my study of local history has given me a deeper knowing, one I’m keen to share.”

Waking Maeve: an excavation of Sligo’s landscape, myth and history is available now in Liber Bookstore and other stockists in Sligo. It is also available via www.walkingmaeve.com .

A book launch will take place on September 24 2026 in Liber Bookstore, O Connell St, Sligo, and a ‘Celebration of Waking Maeve event is taking place on October 3 2026 in the National Surf Centre, in association with White Hag and Shells Café.

Further information, events and updates are available at wakingmaeve.com and via @wakingmaeve on social media.

Culture Night Sligo 2026: A Sligo Celebration of Creativity and Community

Friday 18 September 2026 – All Events Free

Culture Night returns to Sligo on Friday 18 September 2026, bringing an exciting, diverse and fully free programme of arts and cultural events to venues, towns and communities across the county. Coordinated by Sligo County Council’s Arts Service, this year’s programme showcases the depth of creativity, heritage and community spirit that defines Sligo’s cultural landscape.

From music, theatre and dance to visual art, literature, workshops, exhibitions and live performance, Culture Night invites people of all ages to explore, experience and celebrate culture in every corner of Sligo. Events take place across both urban and rural locations, ensuring strong county‑wide dispersal and accessible opportunities for participation.

Programme Highlights

Culture Blast: Everything is Connected – The Model

The Model will transform into a vibrant cultural hub for an evening of performance, workshops and exhibitions. A flagship performance by Crash Ensemble, developed with Sligo Integration Chorus, Sligo Ukrainian Choir, and voices from Sligo’s new communities, forms the centrepiece of the night. Visitors can also enjoy exhibitions by Cathy Wilkes and works by Jack B. Yeats, alongside hands‑on collage and family workshops.

Baroque Brilliance – Hawk’s Well Theatre

A special Culture Night performance celebrating Baroque music in one of Sligo’s most iconic cultural venues.

Culture Night at the Yeats Society

A dedicated programme of literature, talks, readings and creative engagement inspired by the legacy of W.B. Yeats.

County‑Wide Creative Events

Across Sligo, cultural organisations, artists, community groups and venues will host exhibitions, performances, workshops, walking events, family activities and interactive experiences — all free of charge. This includes 27 confirmed events for 2026, spanning Flagship, Featured and Culture‑Wide strands.

Culture Night Late – Queen Maeve Square

From 9pm, Culture Night continues with Culture Night Late, featuring The Sleeping Giant, a large‑scale illuminated sculpture by artist Tom Meskell, accompanied by community‑created lanterns celebrating the night sky. This special event animates Queen Maeve Square with light, creativity and environmental storytelling.

A Free, Inclusive, County‑Wide Celebration

Culture Night Sligo is designed to be inclusive, accessible and welcoming, offering opportunities to sing, dance, make, create, explore and connect. Events span sectors including arts, heritage, education, tourism, hospitality and community life, reflecting the many ways culture is created and shared across Sligo.

All events are free of charge, with some requiring advance booking.

Event Details

Full programme: The full Sligo Culture Night programme can be seen here.

Plan Your Culture Night

Visitors can build a personalised route across Sligo’s cultural venues using the Ideas Engine on sligo.ie — perfect for exploring multiple events across the county in one evening.

County Sligo Surf Club Announces Surfers’ Ball 2026 at Juniper Barn – A Celebration of Coastal Culture, Community and Style

County Sligo Surf Club has announced details of Surfers’ Ball 2026, a signature celebration of Sligo’s coastal lifestyle taking place on Saturday, 19 September 2026 at Juniper Barn.

Running from 6.30pm to 1.00am, the over‑18s event brings together music, food, fashion and community in a uniquely west‑coast setting.

Open to surfers and non‑surfers alike, Surfers’ Ball 2026 is designed as an inclusive social event that reflects the relaxed, welcoming energy of Sligo’s shoreline. With a dress code of Black Tie – Surfers’ Style, guests can expect a blend of formal glamour and coastal flair, celebrating the creativity and character of Ireland’s surf culture.

Tickets are €40, including entry, a welcome drink on arrival, return bus transport with pickups from Strandhill and Sligo, a food voucher, and a complimentary Sligo Oyster Experience. Food will be served throughout the evening by GG’s Food Truck and Aidough Pizza, with beer sponsored by White Hag.

Entertainment on the night features live music from Whatever Suits, alongside DJ sets from Turn It On and Love Smoke, promising a lively, memorable atmosphere inspired by the rhythm of the Atlantic.

Surfers’ Ball 2026 showcases the best of Sligo’s coastal culture—community spirit, great food, local producers, and the creative energy that defines life by the sea.

More Information Florian Leavy 0877948671 countysligosurfclub@gmail.com

September in Sligo 2026: A Month of Culture, Colour & Community

September in Sligo is a celebration of everything that makes this county extraordinary with oceans of creativity, resilience, heritage and wellness. From world‑class photography exhibitions to sheep festivals in the Ox Mountains, from Pride celebrations to Baroque music, the month is packed with experiences that invite visitors to explore every corner of Sligo.

World Press Photo Exhibition

Until September 10 – Queen Maeve Square

One of the world’s most important photography exhibitions arrives in Sligo, showcasing powerful global stories through award‑winning photojournalism. It’s a rare chance to experience world events through the lens of the world’s best visual storytellers.

Wild & Well Festival 2026

September 4–6 – Annaghmore Estate, Collooney

A county‑wide celebration of wellness, movement, nature and creativity. From sea swims and yoga to talks, workshops and outdoor experiences, Wild & Well invites visitors to reconnect with Sligo’s landscapes and with themselves.

Relay for Life Sligo

September 5 – Sligo Town

A powerful community event honouring those affected by cancer. Relay for Life brings together teams, families and supporters for a day of solidarity, remembrance and hope.

Sligo Folk Park: Harvest Festival & Family Fun Day

September 13 – Riverstown

A great day out in rural Sligo with traditional crafts, heritage demonstrations, children’s activities, local food and autumn celebrations at the fantastic Sligo Folk Park.

Sligo Pride 2026

September 14–20 – Countywide

Sligo Pride returns with a full week of parades, talks, workshops, performances and community gatherings. It’s vibrant, inclusive, joyful — and one of the most colourful celebrations of the year.

13th Adaptation Film Festival

September 16–20 – Sligo & Leitrim

A cross‑county film festival exploring adaptation in cinema — from literature to screen, from real stories to creative interpretation. Screenings, discussions and special events take place at The Model and partner venues.

Cloonacool Sheep Festival

September 17–19 – Cloonacool

A unique highlight celebrating traditional farming, sheepdog demonstrations, local crafts, music and Ox Mountain community life. A brilliant way to enjoy and explore South Sligo.

Remembering the Armada

September 17–20 – Grange & North Sligo

A heritage festival honouring the 1588 Spanish Armada story through talks, walks, re‑enactments, music, food and coastal experiences. A deep cultural connection to Sligo’s maritime past.

Sleeping Giant to Queen Maeve Square – Night Exhibition

September 18 – Queen Maeve Square

A spectacular evening of light, sound and storytelling featuring illuminated installations, drummers and a creative reimagining of Sligo’s iconic landscapes.

Culture Night Sligo

September 18 – Countywide

Galleries, studios, theatres, libraries and cultural spaces open their doors for free performances, exhibitions, workshops and late‑night creativity across Sligo.

Surfers’ Ball 2026 – Juniper Barn

September 19 – Juniper Barn

A glamorous coastal celebration bringing together Sligo’s surf community, live music, great food and the unique atmosphere of Juniper Barn.

Croí Heartfest

September 22 – Queen Maeve Square

A heart‑health celebration with music, movement, community activities and wellness experiences in the centre of Sligo Town.

Sligo Baroque Festival

September 25–27 – Sligo Town

One of Ireland’s most respected classical festivals returns with world‑class Baroque performances, intimate concerts and atmospheric venues.

Motorcycle Poker Run

September 27 – Queen Maeve Square

A high‑energy charity run combining motorbikes, scenic routes and a poker‑style challenge — finishing in the heart of Sligo Town.

Coast to Coast Run

September 27 – Sligo Athletic Club

A major athletic event connecting landscapes and communities, drawing runners from across Ireland to experience Sligo’s stunning terrain.

Students’ Day – Sligo Races

September 30 – Sligo Races

A lively day at the races celebrating student life with entertainment, racing action and the unique atmosphere of Sligo Racecourse.

Adventure Gently

Lough Gill Brewery Visitor Experience

‘The One @ One’ Late Night Bus Pilot returns for another run this August Bank Holiday Weekend

Late-night services will operate at 1am over the August Bank Holiday weekend

‘The One @ One’, the late-night transport pilot serving three rural Night-Time Economy locations Sligo, Buncrana and Longford, returns this August Bank Holiday Weekend July 31st- August 2nd. As rural Night-Time Economy pilot towns, all three locations have consistently identified access to safe, reliable late-night transport as one of the most significant barriers to nighttime participation. ‘The One@One’ works to address this barrier and allow people to enjoy their town’s night time economy.

In Sligo, ‘The One @ One’ will operate from 1am at the Markievicz Road bus stop and along the Local Link 981 route, before finishing at Rockfield. A friendly security presence is on board for everyone to have a safe and enjoyable journey home. Feedback from the May and June Bank Holiday iterations has been hugely positive across all three pilot locations. The pilot directly aligns with national policy commitments to improve inclusivity, safety and connectivity across Ireland’s rural towns during evening and night-time hours.

These trial periods will help partners understand demand, monitor usage, and shape future late-night transport options for rural communities across the country. We would encourage anyone using the Sligo bus to fill out a short, online survey on www.sligobid.ie, feedback from service users is a vital component to future NTE planning.

This pilot initiative is a partnership between the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, the National Transport Authority, and Local Link, delivered in collaboration with Longford County Council, Donegal County Council, Sligo County Council and Sligo BID.

Tubbercurry Old Fair Day 2026 Festival Launched

Over 50 Traditional Crafts and Heritage Demonstrations to Feature at Tubbercurry Old Fair Day Festival 2026

As Ireland celebrates Craft Month this August, Tubbercurry Old Fair Day Festival returns with one of the country’s largest showcases of traditional skills and heritage, bringing together more than 50 craft and heritage demonstrations on Old Fair Day, Wednesday 12th August together with displays of vintage machinery, crafts and live music.

Celebrating 41 years since the revival of the traditional Fair Day in 1985, the five-day festival (8–12 August) has grown into one of Ireland’s leading heritage events, attracting visitors from across Ireland while also welcoming members of the diaspora back to Tubbercurry to reconnect with their roots and community.

From basket weaving, pottery, ironmongery and thatching to wood turning, butter making, haymaking, threshing and traditional musical instrument making, visitors will have the opportunity to meet skilled craftspeople and heritage practitioners who continue to preserve and share these important traditions.

Rather than simply viewing exhibits, visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the experience. The Heritage and Craft Village offers opportunities to engage with demonstrators, learn about traditional skills and gain a deeper understanding of Ireland’s rich cultural heritage. Families can also visit the Little Folks Fair, where children can try their hand at traditional crafts, creative activities and interactive workshops designed to inspire the next generation of makers and storytellers. Combined with artisan food producers, vintage displays, animal exhibits, music and family entertainment, the festival provides a unique opportunity to experience the traditions, skills and community spirit that shaped rural Ireland for generations.

Festival Chair Louise Kilbane said: “At the heart of the Tubbercurry Old Fair Day Festival is a commitment to preserving and celebrating our heritage. The crafts and demonstrations on display are not simply exhibitions; they are living traditions being passed from one generation to the next. We are proud to provide a platform for these skilled craftspeople while creating an authentic and immersive experience for visitors of all ages. We are also very proud of our new Youth Committee, established this year to help shape the future of the festival. Their enthusiasm, ideas and involvement ensure that the traditions we celebrate today will continue to be valued and enjoyed by future generations.”

A key feature of this year’s festival is the continued involvement of young people through the Old Fair Day Youth Committee. Young volunteers have played an active role in shaping elements of the programme, helping ensure that the festival remains relevant and engaging for future generations while maintaining its strong connection to local traditions and community values. The Youth Committee will organise the popular Family Fun Day and support activities throughout the festival, helping to create opportunities for children and families to connect with local heritage through fun, interactive experiences.

The highlight of the festival takes place on Wednesday 12th August when the streets of Tubbercurry are transformed into a bustling Fair Day experience featuring hundreds of exhibitors, traditional craft and heritage demonstrations, artisan food and craft stalls, vintage machinery and vehicle displays, children’s entertainment, street performances and interactive family activities. Visitors can spend the day exploring the sights, sounds and traditions of rural Ireland before enjoying a free outdoor concert in Wolfe Tone Square featuring one of Ireland’s most popular country music stars, Jimmy Buckley and His Band.

Families can enjoy the Little Folks Fair in St Brigid’s Hall, featuring crafts, workshops, activities and a dedicated sensory area, while visitors can also take part in dance workshops with South Sligo Summer School and Bróga Bríomhar Dance School. Ocean FM will broadcast live from Wolfe Tone Square.

The festival programme also includes the Tubbercurry Trail Parkrun, Teddy Bears’ Picnic, Duck Race, Live music on the Saturday night with Wolfhound, Family Fun activities on Sunday and Tuesday, Square Sundays Car and Coffee Meet Up, the Real Tubber Headers Cup and a celebration of 80 years of Phoenix Players.

As a voluntary community festival, Tubbercurry Old Fair Day continues to thrive thanks to the support of local businesses, sponsors, volunteers, community organisations, Sligo County Council, Fáilte Ireland and visitors who return year after year.

For more information, follow them on social media or visit their website: www.oldfairday.ie

Markree Castle named among Ireland’s Top Hotels

County Sligo Castle Climbs Six Places to No. 8 in National Tripadvisor Rankings

Markree Castle has been named one of Ireland’s top hotels after securing the No. 8 position in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards 2026.

The achievement sees the County Sligo castle climb six places from last year’s rankings, placing Markree Castle among the Top 10 hotels in Ireland based on reviews and ratings submitted by guests over the past 12 months.

Markree Castle has become one of the northwest’s leading hospitality destinations, welcoming visitors from across Ireland and around the world to experience the unique charm, history and hospitality of one of Ireland’s most iconic castles.

Nicholas Ryan, General Manager of Markree Castle, said the recognition was a tremendous achievement for the entire team.

“To be recognised as one of Ireland’s Top 10 hotels and to move up six places from last year is something we are incredibly proud of. What makes this award particularly special is that it comes directly from our guests. Every review represents a personal experience, and we are honoured that so many people have chosen to share such positive feedback about their stay with us.”

“This recognition is a reflection of the hard work, dedication and passion of our entire team. From our accommodation and food and beverage teams to housekeeping, maintenance and administration, every member of staff plays an important role in creating memorable experiences for our guests.”

“We are also proud to represent County Sligo and the northwest. We are fortunate to be located in one of Ireland’s most beautiful regions and it is always a privilege to welcome visitors and showcase everything that Sligo has to offer.”

Part of the Romantic Castles of Ireland collection, Markree Castle combines centuries of history with contemporary luxury and has established itself as one of Ireland’s leading castle destinations for weddings, celebrations and luxury escapes.

The Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards represent the highest level of excellence in travel and are awarded to businesses that consistently receive outstanding reviews and ratings from travellers worldwide.

For Markree Castle, the latest ranking marks another significant milestone and reinforces its position as one of the premier hospitality destinations in the west of Ireland.

Their website is www.markreecastle.ie