The Conamara Sea Week Festival takes place in Letterfrack in northwest Connemara from October 18 to 27.
The festival celebrates the unique and rich environment, marine life and cultural heritage of the region. This year’s programme is packed with events and activities to suit all ages, with workshops, art, music, talks, walks and much more. The festival also shines a light on climate action and biodiversity, highlighting the importance of local action in combating global challenges.
An education programme forms a central element of the festival, involving primary school children and students from Youthreach and Atlantic Technological University.
Artists, marine scientists and ecologists will inform and inspire school children to create unique artworks for the Night Light’s Parade. Drumming by students from Youthreach and a dance performance by artist Linda Shirmer will add to the spectacle.
Other highlights for children and families include performances by Circus250, a workshop by award-winning children’s author Ellen Ryan, a visit by Clifden lifeboat, and a mini regatta.
A climate and biodiversity seminar brings together researchers, artists and activists, highlighting actions being taken to address climate change and biodiversity loss. Local archaeologist Michael Gibbons will give a talk and a guided walk, interpreting the local landscape and unearthing its hidden stories. Connemara National Park will offer a series of guided walks on biodiversity and foraging.
Renowned for its musical programme, this year’s festival does not disappoint, with local and visiting musicians performing over the long weekend. This year’s line-up includes Tommy Carew, the Kane Sisters, and Noriana Kennedy and friends. There will also be a re-launch of the Letterfrack Poetry Trail, with readings from poets Joan McBreen and Moya Connon.
For lovers of art, the small works art exhibition provides a platform for emerging artists to exhibit alongside some of Connemara’s most well-known and established artistic community. Interface Inagh, renowned for its dynamic exploration of art and science, will present Bearing Witness, a powerful project exploring the environmental and cultural impact of offshore wind farms on Ireland’s coastal communities.
Artist Brigid Mulligan presents a new body of work that explores grief through process-based rituals and includes monumental artwork and experimental film. Director Mohamed Sleiman Labat, a Sahrawi multidisciplinary artist, filmmaker and writer, presents his film DESERT PHOSfate Sun.
Renvyle Cat and Dog Rescue will hold a fundraiser, while the annual Active Age Club gathering will take place in Rosleague Manor House Hotel with music, songs and stories. A gourmet seafood trail celebrates the best of local seafood, and musicians will lead guests to Letterfrack’s excellent food establishments.
Elsewhere, sean-nos dancers Emma O’Sullivan and Caitríona Ní Cheannabháin will perform at a seafood dinner with chef Tony Conneely. For those looking to re-energise, there are also options for yoga and meditation, an open water sea swim, and a sauna!
Dermot O’Donovan, chairperson of Conamara Sea Week, says, “This year we have brought together a truly diverse and inclusive programme, blending art, music, creativity and a hint of madness! The support we receive from Galway County Council and local businesses is invaluable, meaning that many events are free. The committee really look forward to welcoming visitors to Connemara for this year’s festival.”
