Our festival "officially" begins on Thursday evening, June 7, 2012, at the Radisson Blu Hotel in downtown Galway.

For one hour, you will have an opportunity to enjoy a champagne reception and meet quilters from all over the world. Our sixteen celebrity teachers will be your special hosts during this reception and the views from the hotel overlook the spectacular River Corrib, which makes this a perfect spot to enjoy your champagne and listen to lively Irish Music.

Everyone will be invited to come into the Grand Ballroom as a special welcome is presented by the director of the festival, Jim West. Special acknowledgments will follow and we will hear a few words from the legendary quilter, Jinny Beyer.

This presentation will be followed by a formal three course dinner, complete with a choice of wines. Following dinner, the talented performers from Trad on the Prom will provide a one-hour Riverdance-type show. Trad on the Prom is Ireland's #1 music, song and dance show. Their performers hold 15 World Titles and the show is one of the holiday highlights for thousands of visitors each year.

Thursday Evening Pre-Show Drinks 6:00 p.m - 6:45 p.m

Thursday Evening 7:00 p.m to Late

Cost: €125 per person - Click here to register

Learn about our VIP Reception!

Click here to learn more and register

Through out the Festival we are offering an opportunity for you and your group to share a cup of tea with some tasty treats. Join us at 3:00pm - 4:30pm for a time to rejuvenate and meet up with others.

Tea, coffee and light refreshment are served.

Friday Tea with Jinny Beyer Register here

Cost: €20 per person

Through out the Festival we are offering an opportunity for you and your group to share a cup of tea with some tasty treats. Join us at 3:00pm - 4:30pm for a time to rejuvenate and meet up with others.

Tea, coffee and light refreshment are served.

Saturday Tea with Kaye England Register here

Cost: €20 per person

Through out the Festival we are offering an opportunity for you and your group to share a cup of tea with some tasty treats. Join us at 3:00pm - 4:30pm for a time to rejuvenate and meet up with others.

Tea, coffee and light refreshment are served.

Sunday Tea with Ricky Tims Register here

Cost: €20 per person

Join award-winning musician, quilter, and story-teller extraordinaire, Ricky Tims, for an evening of music, laughter and inspiration that will keep you spellbound and laughing. Ricky took his first piano lesson at the age of 3 and continued his musical profession until quilting came along, lighting a creative fire that allowed him to combine both his passion for music and his passion for quilting into one very unique career.

Spend an evening with him as he plays his favorite and most recent compositions with visual display, and listen as he shares what inspires and motivates him in his work and life today. It's a perfect evening of music, wisdom and humor that will tickle the funny bones of quilters and non-quilters alike.

Show time:

Saturday 7:00 p.m

Coach Departing from the Quilter's Village at 6:15 p.m

Cost: €28 per person

Click here to register for this and other special events.

Within the grounds of Bunratty Castle is Bunratty Folk Park where 19th century life is vividly recreated. Set on 26 acres, the impressive park features over 30 buildings in a ‘living’ village and rural setting. Meet and chat with the Bean an Ti (Woman of the House) and various street characters including the Policeman and Schoolteacher who give the site its sparkle during the summer months. Enjoy the tastes, scents, sights and sounds of this enchanting place as you stroll from house to house or around the charming village complete with school, post office, doctors house, hardware shop, printers and of course the pub!

Each night the Ladies of the Castle, aided and abetted by the Earl's Butler, welcome guests from the four corners of the globe to dine at The Earl's Banquet at Bunratty Castle. The entertainment provided by the world renowned entertainers is a fitting compliment to a mead reception, a four course feast, and of course good wine.

Show times:

5:30pm & 8:30pm - Friday & Saturday
Buses leave the Quilter's Village at 3pm for the 5:30 Show and 6pm for the 8:30 Show

Cost: €68 per person

Package includes coach ride from the Quilter's Village to Bunratty Castle, a tour of the grounds and castle, Medieval show and dinner.

Click here to register for this and other special events.

Tonight we let our hair down at the Wicked Thimble Pub with a special BBQ, Irish Music and Dance, and good ole Irish Craic! A variety of Irish performers, including Irish comedians entertain throughout the evening. Admission includes BBQ dinner, complimentary first drink and entertainment. Friday andSaturday evening beginning at 7pm.

Cost: €20 per person per night

Friday or Saturday night.

Click here to register for this and other special events.

This is a full day of sightseeing in the region just north of Galway.

Our tour begins with a departure from the Quilter's Village and stopping at the family owned Connemara Marble Factory. Here you will learn how the marble is mined, the different kinds of marble and what is being done with the marble today. There will be time to shop before driving north into the Connemara Region. Here we will pass the bridge made famous in the movie "The Quiet Man," and travel through mountain passes, over streams, around pristine lakes and see the occasional sheep meandering across the roads.

Our next stop will be the sensational Kylemore Abbey and Gardens. Here there will be time to enjoy the extraordinary gardens, take a tour of the abbey and have a delicious lunch on your own. Their special gift shop will also offer unique one-of-a-kind craft items for sale.  In the afternoon, we will drive to the Irish Crystal Factory where we will see a master carver at work. The skills of these tradesmen have been mastered for dozens of year.  There will be time to shop in their showroom before boarding our coach for our drive back to the Quilter's Village. It is a full day of beauty, history, crafts and tradition. 

Duration: Sunday 9AM - 5PM

Cost: €40 per person

Click here to register for this and other special events.

Become one of our IQFOI Hurling All-Stars by joining the team and learning the basics of the fastest field sport in the world - hurling. This sport, unique to Ireland, has been played on the island since the Bronze Age. Although the skills are incredible to watch due to the speed and agility of professionals, the basics are surprisingly easy to pick up, and great fun. This one hour team training session with a qualified hurling trainer, including using the traditional "hurl" and "sliotar" used in hurling matches, is open to all.

Saturday 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Cost: €10 per person

Duration: 1 hours

Click here to register for this and other special events.

Cnoc Suain ( pronounced Kunnuck Soo-in ) meaning "Restful Hill" in Gaelic/Irish.

(Cnoc = Hill ; Suain = Restful)

Celebrate Irish/Gaelic culture: language, music & song. Learn a Céilí dance, explore the intriguing Bog experiences and stories of Bog Bodies! Enjoy Thatched Cottage Customs & Traditions with Irish Soda Bread-making by an open fire. A unique Irish Cultural Immersion with guest participation. Lively, educational, entertaining & fun, an all-weather experience.

"Presenting Irish Culture and Heritage with the sophistication and high standard which befits it, without compromising its integrity and authenticity."
…this is the guiding principle of Cnoc Suain.

Being from the locality, with a passion for the landscape and the culture Dearbhaill Standún and Charlie Troy have a combined background in the Irish (Gaelic) language, music and entertainment, Botany, Geology, horticulture and education. The creation and development of Cnoc Suain has been a labour of love inspired by our own interests, and sustained by the encouragement of friends and the excellent tutors and guides who deliver with such expertise and enthusiasm.

Dearbhaill was born and reared in Connemara where, from an early age she was steeped in the language and traditions of the area. A native Irish speaker and a talented musician, Dearbhaill is a founder member of the much acclaimed traditional music group Dordán and as a teacher has passed on her love and knowledge of the music to the next generation.

Dearbhaill's personality, which exudes warmth and welcome, together with her captivating sense of humour and gift for storytelling, ensures that each guest at Cnoc Suain enjoys an enriching experience, that is both informative and entertaining.

Charlie is a qualified teacher and a graduate of the University of Ireland, Dublin majoring in geology with botany. He is deeply interested in Natural History and has been an organic grower - of herbs in particular - for 20 years. The sensitive and imaginative restoration of the thatched cottages and other buildings at Cnoc Suain is a testimony to his creativity, vision and painstaking work.

Friday, Saturday, 10:30 am & 3:30 pm

Cost: €49 per person

Duration: 2 hours

Please Note: Price includes coach fare

Click here to register for this and other special events.

Upon entering the corridor of the FAT QUARTERS CHOCOLATE SHOP, you will be greeted, immediately at the doorway with our CHOCOLATE EXHIBIT. These quilts have no restrictions, except that they are all "chocolate" themed.

As you make your way to the end of the exhibit you will be at the entrance of the chocolate shop. Here you will have an opportunity to purchase chocolate desserts, chocolate candies, chocolate everything! You can sit inside the shop, or weather permitting, sit outdoors, overlooking the River Corrib.

Designed to provide very special events and afternoon teas, located in a 225 year old building the Celtic Tea House will host Afternoon Teas with Jinny Beyer, Kaye England and Ricky Tims, with special performances throughout the weekend.

Here you will have the opportunity to enjoy an afternoon of finery, with a choice of tea, coffee and a selection of light refreshments, hosted by one of our celebrity quilters.

Friday Tea with Jinny Beyer Register here

Saturday Tea with Kaye England Register here

Sunday Tea with Ricky Tims Register here

This special presentation will focus on the costumes made especially for John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara for the 1950's Academy Award Nominated film, The Quiet Man.  The O'Maille family from Galway were costume designers hired by director, John Ford to create some of the costumes for the movie. Anne O'Maille will be our special guest and provide enchanting stories and show replica costumes used for the film as clips from the movie are shown. It is an entertaining and fascinating look at sewing for a Hollywood purpose. This lecture style presentation is offered twice on Friday, in the morning and again in the afternoon.

More details.

Cost: €20 per person & includes handouts.

Duration 1.5 hours

Click here to register for this and other special events.

The west coast of Ireland is undoubtably one of the finest angling destinations in Europe. You never know what may turn up, there's a huge variety of sea angling experiences to be had. The shark, ray and mackerel angling at Rassavell is amongst the best in Europe. The reef fishing is excellent and our instructors unique expertise, gained from 20 years' experience will ensure good catches and lasting memories. Novice or expert, all are welcome. Sea anglers will be amazed at the variety of shore, rock and boat fishing opportunities along our readily accessible coastline. A stuttle bus will transport you from the Quilters Village to the wild west coast early in the morning. Our groups will leave the beautiful Rossaveel coast and will commence fishing on-board the 38 foot Leaca Rua. Participants will get the opportunity to take lunch on Inis Oirr, one of the famous Aran Islands before resuming the hunt. Savour the timeless serenity of our scenic landscape and discover the huge variety of species that await coarse anglers throughout the seasons.

Friday, Saturday & Sunday - 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Cost of this fishing excursion is €60 per person.

Click here to register for this and other special events.

Adare Manor

Adare Manor Golf Club is an 18-hole parkland course in southwest Ireland that offers a unique historical experience. Desmond Castle, which was built in the 13th century, provides a stunning backdrop for the first and 15th greens but it is the ruins of the Franciscan Abbey that was built in 1464 that takes center stage. The ancient ruins occupy much of the course's core, providing views and challenges unlike any other golf course in Ireland. The exquisite parkland of the Manor demesne has been preserved including a 14 acre lake anchoring the front nine holes and The River Maigue which meanders through the entire golf course. Mature trees cover the landscape, but they are most heavily concentrated along the fairways. The greens can be tricky but overall this par 69 golf course is very player-friendly.

The Manor is a championship layout that is accessible for players of all skill levels. The old -growth trees contribute to the classic beauty of the course and certainly makes for a truly Irish experience.

Friday, Saturday & Sunday - 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

€135 per person. Register here

Drumoland Castle

Nicknamed the Course of Kings due to it's location beside a castle, the Dromoland Golf Course  is a wonderful parkland challenge that meanders through the estate amongst fine trees and around many natural lakes. Set within the magnificent 360 acre Dromoland Castle estate, the 18 hole parkland course features rolling hills, centuries-old trees and water hazards that will test your skills. The sense of history and beauty is prevalent in each and every hole on this par 72 course.

In 2003, the course was redesigned to the highest standards by Joe Carr and Ron Kirby and the result is nothing short of magnificent. From tee to green, Dromoland challenges and tests, while offering sublime views over the estate throughout. The signature 7th, stands loftily above a postage stamp green with water to the left and a shamrock sand trap to the right. If that was not enough, the eye is breathtakingly distracted by the magnificence of Dromoland Lough and Castle as a backdrop.

Friday, Saturday & Sunday - 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

€115 per person. Register here

Glenlo Abbey

The home course of the Glenlo Abbey Hotel, Glenlo Abbey Golf Club is a nine-hole course with double greens that make it easily stretch into a diverse 18-hole experience for golfers. Set near a lake this 71 par course stretches out to a solid to 6,538 yards from the back tees when played as 18. The golf course opened in 1996, and is set on historic lands, making it a must-play for golfers who enjoy scenery and historic qualities in their golf courses. This lake side golf course, although fair to the beginner, can be a great test to the low handicapper. With the many lakes, trees, large greens, and the wind whipping up from Lough Corrib, it plays differently every day. An especially unique feature is the 4th hole features a green which is surrounded on three sides by the River Corrib.

Before your game warm up at the 10 Bay Driving Range. Bill Daly, on-site PGA Pro, offers the best in individual and group tuition & will bring your group through the do's and dont's of the game, while adding fun to the occasion.

Friday, Saturday & Sunday - 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

€68 per person. Register here

Ougherard

Oughterard Golf Club is a charming and challenging course set in a tranquil park between Lough Corrib to the East and the Connemara Mountains to the North. The Golf Club is renowned for its hospitality and is an ideal venue to include on a golfing holiday in the West of Ireland. Lined with mature native Oak, Hazel and Birch trees, this 18 hole course was founded in 1974 and is best described as a Parklands course. It is an excellent test of golf, with numerous water features and sand bunkers strategically placed to protect the par of the course.The course is situated between Lough Corrib to the East and the Connemara Mountains to the North and North West to give a truly spectacular setting.

The small courtyard which greets arriving visitors contrasts an old-world ambience as it introduces a new and magnificent clubhouse overlooking the course. Stone walls reflect a bygone era when the lands once belonged to the ferocious O'Flaherty clan of nearby Aughnanure Castle. Happily, the clubhouse and course have maintained the charm for which they have a delightful reputation.

Friday, Saturday & Sunday - 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

€59 per person. Register here

Salthill

This excellent parkland course is centrally located in Salthill, just three miles from Galway City Centre. The Club has a proud and distinguished history dating back to its inception in 1895. During this period, the club has collected many honours and it's members have represented the Club at the highest levels. Designed by the renowned Scottish course architect Dr. Alistair MacKenzie, Galway Golf Club is 5,974 metres par 70 with a standard scratch of 71 off the back tees. Galway is a tight mature tree lined course with plenty of wild gorse, to punish the wayward shot. Many of the greens are elevated and tiered which is the trademark of the architect. In order to put a good card together on this fine challenge of golf, you must be accurate off the tee, have a good short game and a hot putter.

Even if your game is not at its best you will enjoy you golf here, as the scenery is panoramic, with excellent views of the world famous Galway Bay all the way to the Aran Islands and the Burren. To complement this outstanding course, a stunning new glass-fronted clubhouse provides members and guests with excellent bar and dining facilities with superb panoramic views over Galway Bay and the Clare hills. Guests can sit and relax outside on the new south-facing terrace, and enjoy a drink or meal whilst watching their fellow golfers complete their rounds.

Friday, Saturday & Sunday - 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

€98 per person. Register here

If you are visiting Ireland it is an unwritten law that you have to experience an Equestrian Trail! It is the only way to really see Ireland. Few countries revere the horse as much as the Irish and horseback riding is deeply woven into the culture. The rural countryside with its stone walls, green fields and rolling hills is very pleasant to explore in company with a good horse. Irish horses have an excellent temperament, they are kind and easy to handle and ride. See the landscape change as you travel along, getting to know your Irish horse or pony, in the spirit of a true explorer.

Our 4 hour trail will take you on an easy relaxing ride through the peaceful Kyleback forest and over the Slieve Aughty Mountains.  It's a place not yet frequented by many tourists so its beauty is still natural and unspoiled. You will also be able to see the beautiful lakes that dot this amazing landscape. Catch sight of the native deer as they graze in the forests, pass by the native bogs and learn about their conservation and see lots of historical ruins. Take a journey into the hidden core of the Irish Landscape for an experience you will never forget.

Friday, Saturday & Sunday - 1:00 pm

Duration- 4 hours

Participants do not need to bring equipment but should wear appropriate clothing.

Cost of this fishing excursion is €99 per person.

Click here to register for this and other special events.

Have you ever spent time with a professional photographer where the focus was on you, your camera, and how to take professional looking photographs? Well don't miss this opportunity to experience some of Ireland's best photographers taking you into different directions in and around Galway! We are offering three different photography workshops, all starting with 2-hours of classroom instruction at the Quilter's Village Schoolhouse.

From here, you will be taken in one of three different directions. One workshop focuses on the beautiful Connemara Region, where you will photograph mountains, streams, pristine lakes, animals and all kinds of landscapes.The second workshop focuses on Galway's City Center, photographing people, buildings, special places. And the third workshop will focus on the Burren, where you will photograph wildflowers, rock formations and sights along the ocean. You will finish your workshop knowing more about how your camera works, how to capture the best photographs possible and you will return to the Quilter's Village and end your workshop.

Saturday 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

Cost: €135 per person

Click here to register

Your day begins with a short coach journey to Cong, famous for it's connections to the legendary film, The Quiet Man. Spin through the wild and haunting scenery of Connemara, where the terrain is un-spoilt and blissfully free from the chaos and stress of modern life. Immerse yourself in a world of horned goats, wild horses, shimmering lakes and sublime mountains. Designed to suit all levels of ability. All cyclists will be accompanied by a coach, so anyone can take a breather if needed without falling behind. Supervised by qualified professionals and guaranteed a fun day out.

Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 10 am

Cost: €49 per person

Duration: 5-6 hours

Please Note - Safety gear and bikes will be provided for all participants. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear – it wouldn't be Ireland if it didn't rain now and again.

Click here to register for this and other special events.

They say life takes on new meaning when looked from a different perspective. Well gliding gently through the sky in a hot air balloon ride certainly changes ones life forever. Our tour begins with a departure from the Quilter's Village as you drive south to County Limerick. Situated in the lush heartlands, Adare Manor is one of Ireland's most evocative and spellbinding Five Star hotels. Steeped in exotic history and surrounded by medieval ruins, its 840-acre estate is home to beautiful parklands, superb trout fishing on the river Maigue, and a renowned 18 hole championship golf course. The estate is situated in the heart of the picturesque village of Adare, and only a 20 minute drive from Limerick City.

You will board your balloon and glide just above the tree tops for a gentle ride through the sky. The experience will be unlike anything you have ever done before, and certainly be one of the great highlights of your time in Ireland. Space is limited on this tour and based on first come-first served.

Cost: €287 per person

Click here to register for this and other special events.

One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Galway is to experience it on foot. The west of Ireland contains a wonderful range of old paths and roads which are ideal for walking tours. As you walk through the quiet valleys, mountains, and boglands you will discover an Ireland off the beaten path.

On this stunning adventure you will visit the spectacular region of the Burren in the West of Ireland. Made up of a strange lunar-like limestone rock, the landscape is a breath-taking area, rich in botany and of great archaeological interest. Our guides will take you on our carefully-chosen tracks where you will explore the rugged terrain as well as numerous lakes and rivers. The scenery changes from dramatic mountain ranges, woodlands and fjords to sweeping open bogland and a rocky fractal coastline. Our journey will also take us on a very picturesque coastal walk in Clifton, often described as the Jewel of Connemara. This walk will aim to present the beauty and serenity of the area without being too strenuous so walkers of all abilities are welcome. Summer weather in the west of Ireland can be tricky at the best of times, so Hillwalking will require some essential equipment: strong waterproof boots, a waterproof jacket with a hood, gloves and a hat which you must bring along.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday: 8:30 am- 2:00 pm

Cost: €79 per person

On this beautiful tour you will discover the history and evolution of the city from ancient times to the modern era as well as encounter the flora and fauna of the scenic area around the Quilter's Village. You will visit Stone Age settlements, learn about the famous tribes of Galway and hear fantastic stories of the river Corrib which flows through the city. This will be a leisurely walk for those who would like to stretch their legs amidst spectacular scenery while exploring the archaeology, geology, and history of this fascinating area. Participants will be met at the Quilting Village by our experienced walking guides who will take you on a tour of the nearby area and share their love of the country with you. Our groups will be small and friendly, so you can have the chance to get an intimate sense of your surroundings. This is an opportunity for you to truly relax and discover one of the most beautiful areas in Europe. Bring a light waterproof jacket and/or an umbrella - it is Ireland after all!

Friday, Saturday and Sunday: 3:30pm- 5:00pm

Cost: €25 per person

Register here

Kayaking is a safe and enjoyable way to explore the Corrib River which flows through Galway City. Our instructors specialise in guided sea kayaking tours for people who want to discover the natural beauty of the Corrib. You will discover stunning vistas, 17th Century Castles, tranquil lakes, and fascinating wildlife sightings.

An ideal way to experience the wonders of river kayaking. We specialise in trips that set out to discover our exceptional river environment and enjoy it to its full, with its diverse and ever-changing vistas and experiences. This tour lasts three hours, and during the tour we slip under the bridges and see County Galway from a uniquely unusual perspective. You will glide gracefully along canals and lose yourself in the rushes of Jordans Cut and Galway’s ‘hidden lakes’.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday- 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Cost: €79.99

Click here to register for this and other special events.

It's one of the old languages still spoken in parts of Ireland, and here is your opportunity to learn some basic words, how to pronounce them and how to write some of them as well. This is a beginner's class taught by a native speaker that will make you fall in love with this beautiful language.  Irish Gaelic was the first vernacular language in Europe to develop a written form, in the 6th Century AD and has undergone many changes since but remains an important part of Irish culture.

Saturday & Sunday

Duration: 2 hours

Cost: €15 per person

Click here to register for this and other events.

It's one of the old languages still spoken in parts of Ireland, and here is your opportunity to learn some basic words, how to pronounce them and how to write some of them as well. This is a beginner's class taught by a native speaker that will make you fall in love with this beautiful language.  Irish Gaelic was the first vernacular language in Europe to develop a written form, in the 6th Century AD and has undergone many changes since but remains an important part of Irish culture.

2:00 pm - 3:00 pm Friday, Saturday & Sunday.

Cost: €14 per person

Click here to register for this and other events.

This one hour fun class with a professional Irish dancer will teach you all the basics of that most famous of dance types - Irish traditional dancing, as seen with our very own prize-winning performers Trad on the Prom.

3.30 pm - 4.30 pm Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Cost: €14 per person

Click here to register for this and other events.

Come with us on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience life on the most westerly island off the most westerly island in Europe. People have been living on this bare stretch of rock for at least 5,500 years. This all-day adventure will explore this fascinating place and way of life.

We begin our Sticks and Stones adventure with a scenic bus journey through the wild desolation of Connemara. On the way, our guide will fill us in on the history and culture of this unique area of Gaelic Ireland. When we reach Ros a’Mhíl (Peninsula of Honey), we will board our boat to Inis Meáin, the most untouched of the stunning Aran Islands.  Keep an eye out for Ireland’s native seals, dolphins and whales.

When we land on the island, we will experience a variety of cultural Irish activities and traditional pastimes, featuring some local skills and characters. These include building a traditional stone wall (using no cement or mortar), learning about the renowned “raised bed” potatoes grown in a manner unique to this wild Atlantic environment, a conversational insight into life into such a remote island with an island fisherman and playing a sport found nowhere else in the world – caid. Lunch will be in the island’s pub with traditional homemade food.

Before sailing back to the “Mainland”, we will have a chance to sample a creamy pint of Ireland’s finest export - Guinness - while seeing the trophies of caid games gone by, and meet a few more locals before leaving this stunning, remote community.

9:00 am - 6:00 pm, Saturday 9th of June only.

Cost: €127 per person

Click here to register for this and other events.

Whether you're an experienced painter with lots of masterpieces under your creative belt or you just want to dip your toes in the world of brushes and strokes, our workshop offers something for everyone with a willingness to learn.

Lynda Cookson, an artist with The Painter's Palette in Moycullen, will be taking you into the beautiful and lush area of Connemara to paint the breathtaking scenery that will surround you. With things like bogs, rolling green hills, small Irish cottages and heather as far as the eye can see, your painting will be bursting with both color and creativity.

Providing all of the materials including easels, paint brushes, paint, canvas boards, etc., all you have to worry about it not being able to contain your imagination on one blank page. Just bring yourself, a sitting stool and your mind to the Irish countryside and come away with an original and traditional painting.

From your first brush stroke to selecting your colour scheme, our painting workshop will bring you from a blank canvas to a crowded imagination. The sky is the limit in this workshop, literally!

These classes begin at 9.00a.m. and finish just before 6.00p.m. 

Friday, Saturday & Sunday

Cost: €95 per person

Click here to register for this and other events.

The spectacular Aillwee Caves is located in the heart of the Burren in County Clare, forty minutes from the Quilters Village. Perched high on its Burren terraced mountain side with what has to be one of the most spectacular views of Galway Bay. It is a must for all who find themselves in the area.

The Burren is a place full of wonder, beauty and discovery. Let the staff at Aillwee Caves welcome you to the dramatic underworld of this area. Expert guides will accompany and inform you during your leisurely tour. The tour consists of a 30 minute stroll through the beautiful caverns – over bridged chasms, under weird formations and alongside the thunderous waterfall which sometimes gently sprays the unsuspecting visitor! Marvel at the frozen waterfall and discover the now extinct brown bears bones.

The Burren Bird of Prey Centre is set against the most stunning backdrops the Burren can offer and presents the region from an environmental, educational and conversational viewpoint. The Centre holds the largest and most varied collection of Birds of Prey in the country. It is home to Eagles, Falcons Hawks and Owls from all over the globe. Learn about the ancient art of Falconry and the environmental issues involved in their protection and conservation. The spectacular flying displays provide the opportunity to see many species in dramatic flight from Aillwee Mountain. 

Friday, Saturday & Sunday 9am - 1pm

Cost: €32 per person

Click here to register for this and other events.

A walk through the four gardens takes you on a journey through the cycle of the year with each garden representing one of the Celtic festivals of Samhain, Imbolc, Bealtaine and Lughnasa. These are wildlife gardens, designed to reflect the West of Ireland landscape and managed to encourage biodiversity. Designed by Chelsea Flower Show winner Mary Reynolds the Garden incorporates the natural beauty of the wild surroundings with imaginative sculptures and fascinating stone circles.  Walk along the Imbolc garden through wildflower meadow and orchard trees to a children's glade with its delightful basketwork swings or stroll between tall stones in the summer garden and rest in the bog oak throne. Another highlight of the tour includes the Crannóg, a re-construction of an Iron Age roundhouse. It is constructed from oak poles set in the ground in a circle and woven with split hazel to make wattle walls. This is a place to be still, dream and reflect on the beauty of this unique region.

Friday, Saturday & Sunday

Cost: €22 per person

Click here to register for this and other events.

At Brigit's Garden we give the ancient traditions a modern spin with interactive activities like drumming, a fire procession through the gardens to light the huge bonfire at sunset and entertainment provided by fire dancers and jugglers. Using specially designed replica drums participants will recreate one of the most enchanting practices of the ancient Celts. Visitors will also be invited to enjoy a delicious dinner on the grounds of this mysterious place before gathering at the bonfire to relax and wind down. 

Saturday & Sunday Evening

Cost: €55 per person

Click here to register for this and other events.

For many centuries Irish storytellers have captivated listeners with tales of local happenings. These storytellers have inherited their knowledge and craft from generations of Seanachaí dating back to the pre-Christian Bards of the Druids. In the pre-television and radio days, the long Irish winter nights were spent gathering at the fireside of local households for entertainment. Singing, dancing, storytelling and recitations filled the evenings for rural people. Now you will be able to get a taste of this tradition with our special Midnight Garden Storytelling event. The fun begins when you are collected from the Quilters Village and brought out to the serene Brigit's Garden where you will be given a glass of mulled wine and a lantern. Participants will be directed around the grounds of this beautiful area by Storytellers who will chill you bones with their spooky tales for what promises to be an unforgettable night of magic and colour.

Saturday 10:30 pm – 12:30 am

Cost: €16 per person

Click here to register for this and other events.

Visit some of Galway's most iconic and famous traditional pubs with an experienced local guide, who'll inform you all about Ireland's pubs, their traditions and role in our Guinness-soaked history - while sampling some of the black stuff yourself! 

Visiting six pubs in four hours, you'll be an expert by the end! Price includes six drinks of your choice, plus a meal and guide.

Starting times: 11:00 am, 2:00 pm & 4:00 pm on Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Spots are limited.

Cost: €67 per person

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Be part of Galway's rich tradition with the sea by taking a cruise around Galway Bay on a 37' Luxury Yacht. During the trip participants can get behind the wheel and feel the sails harness the wind and enjoy the freedom away from the stresses of everyday life. Take in the wildlife and natural beauty of Galway Bay from a Beneteau Oceanis 373 and enjoy the shores of south Connemara to the hills of the Burren. The trips are controlled by experienced yachting instructors who have been operating out of Galway Harbour for over ten years to ensure our impeccable safety standards are met. All safety equipment, Lifejackets and waterproofs will be provided and sailors of any level are welcome so no experience is required.

Saturday & Sunday from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

Cost: €89.99 per person

Click here to register for this and other events.