The Gathering Ireland has announced the details of hundreds of special festivals and events that will take place over the final quarter of the year. The events, spanning sports, music, theatre, business and community are expected to welcome thousands of additional overseas visitors to Ireland in the next three months.
This autumn, the Mayo Gathering schedule includes: Cong Festival 2013 – The Gathering at Inisfree, October 4 to 6. The scenic village of Cong will celebrate the west of Ireland's contribution to cinema with Cong Festival 2013. The festival began in 2011 to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the making of John Ford’s classic film The Quiet Man in Cong. This year, as part of The Gathering 2013, a specially commissioned bronze statue depicting the characters of Sean Thornton and Mary Kate Danaher will be unveiled. The village is inviting fans from all over the world to visit and see where the movie magic began.
An Garda Síochana Boxing Club presents They're Gathering, a unique night of entertainment featuring Ireland's national police force versus the world famous New York Police Department. Sparks will fly when these two proud forces collide in the ring over 10 action packed bouts on October 5 in the Welcome Inn.
Samhain Abhainn is Ballina's Halloween Festival, celebrating all things scary and is heavily influenced by Irish Halloween traditions and customs. This festival will take place from October 26 to 30.
Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Michael Ring said: “Don’t forget, if you haven’t organised your own Gathering, there is still plenty of time. It’s worth taking a look at the Gathering website to see what’s already been done. If any of that looks fun or interesting, why not organise your own?”
