One of the things I was looking forward to learning more about Ireland before I came to the country was about the festivals, because I believe Ireland’s rich cultural heritage shines brightest through them, bringing history, community, and celebration to life. For international students like me, these festivals provide a unique opportunity to experience the heart of Irish culture firsthand.
Being here in Ireland since August, I had the opportunity to learn more about three of them (one each month, isn’t it great??). So, in this post I present a brief view of each of them and give details from the last one that is still happening in the country. And if you are in Limerick, you might still be able to participate yourself:
1. Féile na Gréine (August)
I have to confess I had never heard about this festival until the day I was sightseeing and met some young people gathering together and I asked one of them about this celebration.
Taking place each August in Limerick, Féile na Gréine is a grassroots music festival that champions emerging artists and experimental sounds. Unlike larger, commercial festivals, this three-day event has a community-centered and DIY ethos, bringing an eclectic lineup to intimate venues scattered across the city. With performances from local and national artists, Féile na Gréine captures a spirit of creative freedom and collaboration, making it an immersive experience for attendees. Each year, the festival revitalizes Limerick’s music scene, transforming unexpected locations into lively concert spaces, from art studios to public parks. For international students and visitors, Féile na Gréine offers a genuine taste of contemporary Irish culture and an opportunity to experience Limerick’s unique artistic community.
I learned about it just at the last day, but I was fascinated to learn have experienced at least some minutes of this festival.
2. National Ploughing Championships (September)
Every time I said to an Irish person I would go to the Ploughing as part of the Mary Immaculate College experience for international students, I heard the same thing: there is nothing more Irish than the Ploughing! Enjoy it!
The National Ploughing Championships, often referred to simply as “The Ploughing,” is the largest agricultural event in Ireland and a unique festival that celebrates the country’s farming culture. Held each September, this three-day event draws hundreds of thousands of visitors from across Ireland and beyond. Originally a ploughing contest, it has grown to include livestock exhibitions, machinery showcases, food stalls, crafts, and family-friendly entertainment. The Ploughing offers a glimpse into rural Irish life and traditional farming practices, with competitions, demonstrations, and workshops that highlight the agricultural heart of the nation. It’s a wonderful blend of heritage, community, and modern Irish farming innovation.
The weather was amazing and it was fantastic to see the crowd enjoying the multiple activities offered. It seemed that all the country was there. Over 300,000 people attended The Ploughing this year and I feel lucky enough to have lived this culturally rich experience.
3. Samhain (October 31 - November 1)
I teach English in Brazil. And one of the cultural festivities my students and I enjoy is Halloween. But maybe I was more influenced by other countries and did not know much about its origins.
Samhain is one of Ireland’s oldest and most mysterious festivals. It marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. Rooted in ancient Celtic traditions, Samhain is considered the original Halloween and is deeply tied to the cycles of life and death. From candlelit processions to bonfires, the rituals of Samhain invite participants to connect with Ireland’s mystical past. The festival is celebrated across the country, with special events in Limerick, Dublin, and other cities.
Let’s dig into it a little bit more?
The Origins and Traditions of Samhain
Samhain (pronounced Sow-in) has its roots in ancient Celtic society, over 2,000 years ago, when it was celebrated as a pivotal moment in the Celtic calendar. Samhain marked the start of the “darker half” of the year, a time when the veil between the living and the spirit world was believed to be thinnest. People gathered in communities to light bonfires, which served as protective symbols to ward off evil spirits. Families would also leave offerings of food to appease wandering spirits and honor their ancestors. Over time, elements of Samhain traditions transformed into what we now know as Halloween, but in Ireland, Samhain retains its distinctly mystical and spiritual significance.
Limerick’s Samhain Festival in 2024
This year, Limerick hosted a vibrant and immersive celebration of Samhain, inviting locals and visitors to experience both the history and community spirit of the festival. Highlights included a spectacular lantern-lit procession through the city center, live storytelling of Samhain myths, and an awe-inspiring bonfire by the River Shannon. The festival blended traditional Samhain customs with contemporary elements, showcasing Irish folklore alongside live music, theatrical performances, and food stalls with seasonal dishes like colcannon and barmbrack.
Why Samhain Matters for International Students
As an international student, immersing yourself in Irish festivals like Samhain offers a meaningful window into the culture and values of Ireland. Samhain is a chance to experience an ancient tradition that touches on universal themes of family, community, and respect for the past. By engaging with these celebrations, international students can connect more deeply with local culture, forge friendships with both Irish and international peers, and gain a broader appreciation of Ireland’s rich heritage. The workshops, storytelling sessions, and community gatherings associated with Samhain also provide fun ways to practice English and learn new Irish phrases and folklore.
Limerick’s Samhain Festival in 2024 was more than a celebration—it was an invitation to become part of the Irish story. For any international student, Samhain serves as a reminder that studying abroad is not just about academics; it’s about fully engaging with and learning from a country’s traditions, people, and history. And it makes our Irish experience real and complete!
-Solimar Silva, Brazil
