The upcoming summer season is finally drawing close. With summer vacations on everyone’s mind, there is no better time to enjoy a trip to Ireland than in summer time. Whilst on a vacation in Ireland, a trip to the wonderful West Cork region is a must. The rugged coastline and rolling hill promises an unforgettable trip. For those planning to take a vacation in the South West of Ireland this May, there are a host of planned festivals to enjoy.
The month of May introduces us to some of the most noted and beloved summer festivals. One of these such festivals is the Baltimore Fiddle Festival which takes place from the 8th until the 11th May. This festival promises to celebrate old traditional ways and the proud music and seafaring heritage of this popular Irish fishing village. Expect to be entertained and enthralled by master performances of traditional Irish music sessions in intimate settings within the village.
Baltimore West Cork, a fishing village in the scenic West Cork region of Ireland
Another top pick is the Corona Fastnet Short Film Festival, taking place from the 21st to the 25th May. With well-known patrons supporting the event such as Steve Coogan, Jim Sheridan and David Puttman, short films from all over the world are screened whilst industry professionals are invited to share their knowledge with visiting filmmakers.
Back to the picturesque, fishing village of Baltimore, the Baltimore Wooden Boat Festival takes place on the 23rd to the 25th May. Celebrating the best in traditional timber sailing boats of Ireland, the festival aims to encourage a local interest in the traditional wooden working boats of the area, promote the revival in traditional boat building and develop a regular event that would forget links with lovers of wooden boats from other area and countries.
The many towns and villages of West Cork are best explored on a self drive tour of Ireland. The many planned festivals over the summer, offer the perfect excuse for visitors to head to the scenic region, whether it be to engage in the local festivities, see and hear something new, soak up the culture and atmosphere, relax in West Cork accommodation or simply enjoy the scenery and food whilst taking in the many events and shows in the area.