Your 2023 Calendar for Ireland: Must-See Attractions and Events

Ireland is a breathtaking country with a beautiful culture, a welcoming atmosphere and a rich history. The emerald isle has so much to offer those who are living and working there, or visiting; making it an ideal destination if you’re there for a locum assignment, or a stop-off during your working holiday. So if you’re in Ireland and want to find something fun or exciting to do, you really won’t have to look too far. To help you get the most out of your time in Ireland, this article is going to go over some of the best attractions and events for any locum that’s there in 2023.

Your 2023 Calendar for Ireland: Must-See Attractions and Events

Looking for something fun to do in Ireland this year? Well, keep reading to see our top picks to add to your 2023 calendar for Ireland:

Soak up the Arts at Galway International Arts Festival in July

If you’re an art lover, then make sure you head to Galway in July for the International Arts Festival. Running over a 2-week period, this international event brings together a myriad of displays and performances throughout Galway City. You'll get a chance to enjoy live musical performances, theatre shows, visual art, dance performances and literary events. Artists flock to Galway for this event, so you’ll find performers and artists from all over the world here.

Embrace Traditional Irish Music This August at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann

Ireland has some of the most beautiful traditional music in the world, and thankfully the locals embrace this with gusto. In August, the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann begins, which is Ireland’s top traditional music festival and has been running since 1951. The host city changes every year, and for 2023 the festival is happening in Mullingar Westmeath. During the festival, you’ll be treated to an assortment of live musical performances, instrumental sessions and singing performances that focus on traditional Irish music.

Head to Puck Fair in August

Puck Fair is one of Ireland’s oldest festivals and is steeped in tradition. It’s a three-day festival that takes place on the streets of Killorglin in County Kerry and offers visitors a glimpse of some of the more unique aspects of traditional Irish culture. Alongside live music, street food and a fun fair, you’ll be able to watch the mighty King Puck receiving a coronation on the first day, followed by a day of celebration. On the final day, King Puck is dethroned and the celebrations come to a close with a stunning fireworks display. This festival runs from the 10th until the 12th of August and it’s totally free!

Enjoy the Electric Picnic in September

If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy a more modern musical vibe, then the Electric Picnic is the place for you. This large-scale music festival takes place on the grounds of the iconic Stradbally Hall in County Laois and takes place in early September. It’s a star-studded lineup of modern music, and this year it’s managed to draw in a fantastic lineup. You’ll be able to see acts like The Killers, Billie Eilish and Lewis Capaldi perform over three nights - so it’s definitely one you’ll not want to miss out on if you're an avid gig-goer.

Photo by Electric Picnic

Get a Taste of the Sea at the Galway International Seafood Festival this September

Galway hosts one of Ireland's biggest and best seafood festivals during September, so if you’re fond of oysters and other seafood this is one to pencil into your calendar. The Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival runs from the 22nd to the 24th of September this year and is jam-packed with activities. Whether you fancy enjoying the gala banquet, want to absorb some traditional music or fancy your chances at the oyster-eating competition, you’re bound to enjoy yourself here.

Enjoy Live Performances at the Dublin Theatre Festival in October

The Dublin Theatre Festival is one of the biggest live events in Dublin’s calendar, offering a host of high-quality theatre performances that run from September 28th to October 15th. It’s a festival that has a lot of history behind it and has run every year since 1957. It’s an opportunity to enjoy theatre events that draw in huge crowds from all over the world. You can expect over 350 performances across 20 venues. It’s a chance to soak up live music, dance and theatre performances from prominent and lesser-known performers, so make sure you check the schedule to find something that you’ll enjoy.

Photo by Diogo Palhais on Unsplash

Celebrate the Silver Screen at the Cork Film Festival this November

The Cork International Film Festival is a fantastic festival that celebrates the latest and greatest in modern film-making. Bringing together a host of documentaries, short films, arthouse projects and international films, the Cork Film Festival offers a plethora of wonderful experiences for film fans. Running from the 9th to the 19th of November, there’s something for everyone during this celebration of the silver screen.

Get Festive at the Killarney Christmas Market in December

Running throughout December, the Killarney Christmas market is a festive wonderland that offers the perfect way to celebrate Christmas. Expect to find plenty of stalls selling quality local crafts and food as well as live performances throughout. You can soak up the Christmas atmosphere, enjoy live music from local performers and even meet Santa! So if you’re in Killarney over Christmas, make sure you check out this winter wonderland.

Photo by Killarney

Find Incredible Locum Opportunities in Ireland

If you’re enjoying your time in Ireland and want to secure some locum work while you’re there, our team at Globe Locums can help. We have an extensive network of locum opportunities available for a variety of roles and specialisms, so check out our latest locum vacancies at Globe Locums to find the right locum jobs for you in Ireland.