Ireland 2026

If you have any questions or would like to talk through the trip, you can schedule a time here: Shannon Dunne Studios Calendly

PLANNING

Things to do now:

Apply for an ETA visa (to go from Ireland to Northern Ireland) here.

Plan your arrival on Inisheer (see below)

Look at the packing list- you may want to break in walking or dancing shoes in advance!

Traveling to Inisheer:

You can travel to Inisheer via ferry or plane. The Doolin Ferry is the smallest boat, but the shortest trip by boat. The Aran Ferries out of Rosavil or from Galway is also an option. Flying via Aer Aran is 8 minutes, I believe.

Leaving Belfast:

You may want to start to look at travel options from Belfast to your next destination. Keep in mind, the fleadh may make trains/busses busier than usual.

Packing List

I will expand this, but things you may want to start thinking about:

• Good walking shoes. Mine are waterproof.

• Rain gear. I bring a poncho and a raincoat. If you like to hike, you may want waterproof pants.

• Dance shoes for the ceilis. I have leather bottom oxfords.

• Layers- you never know what the weather will be in August.

Films, Series, Books, and Music Lists at the bottom of the page

ITINERARY

Inis Oírr (Inisheer)

Friday, July 31- Tuesday, August 4

Accommodations: Brú Radharc Hostel (Inis Oírr). Please Note: Check in is after 3 pm, but you may leave bags there if you arrive earlier.

Meals: All meals are on your own. The hostel does have tea and coffee, and a kitchen with refrigerator storage.

Planned Activites: TBA

Westport (County Mayo)

Tuesday, August 4 - Thursday, August 6

Accommodation: Wyatt Hotel.

Meals: Daily breakfast and Wednesday dinner are included.

Planned Activities:

• Tuesday, 7:30-10:30, Ceili, Derrada, Co. Mayo

• Wednesday, 5:30 pm, Group Dinner at Wyatt Hotel

• Wednesday, 8 pm: Sean Keane concert, Westport Town Hall

Other things to do:

• Westport town walking tours (pub, history, sweet treats tours)

• Matt Molloy’s Pub, famous for traditional music

Belfast – Fleadh Cheoil

Thursday, August 6 - Monday, August 10

Thursday, August 8 – Monday, August 10

Accommodation: Moxy Hotel, Belfast City Center

Meals: All meals are on your own.

Planned Activities:

• Friday, Time TBD, Sean-nos Dance competitions (Cheering on Shannon’s student, Lila!)

• Sunday, 6 pm: Senior Ceili Band Competition, Waterford Hall

Other things to do:

• Check out the fleadh website for excursions, tours, competitions, concerts, ceilis, and more: https://fleadhcheoil.ie/