Matchmaking Festival

The Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival is one of Ireland‘s most intriguing and enduring traditions, drawing thousands of visitors to the small town of Lisdoonvarna in County Clare each autumn. Known as Europe’s largest matchmaking event, the festival is rooted in a centuries-old tradition where farmers from remote areas would come to Lisdoonvarna for a wife. Today, the festival is a lively celebration of love, music, and culture, attracting people of all ages and backgrounds looking for romance, friendship, or a good time.

This guide will delve into the history and charm of the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, offer practical travel information, recommend accommodation options, and explore what else there is to do and see in this beautiful part of Ireland.

Where you can find Love and Friendship

The Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival takes place every September and October, transforming the small spa town into a vibrant hub of activity. The festival’s origins date back over 160 years, when local matchmakers, or “matchers,” would help farmers and other locals find suitable partners. In an era before online dating, this was a practical way to connect people from remote parts of Ireland.

The most famous of these matchmakers is Willie Daly, who has been helping people find love for decades, as his father and grandfather did before him. Willie Daly is a central figure at the festival, meeting with hopeful singles in his matchmaking office at the Imperial Hotel. His legendary matchmaking book holds the secrets to finding true love, and many believe that simply touching the book will bring good luck in romance.

The festival offers a wide range of activities beyond matchmaking. Daily music sessions, live bands, and traditional Irish dancing create a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can participate in dance classes, enjoy live performances, and participate in competitions like the “Best Dressed” contests. The festival also includes special events for older singles and LGBTQ+ communities, making it an inclusive celebration for all.

Despite its modern developments, the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival retains a sense of tradition and community. The festival’s spirit is fun and connection, where people come together to enjoy good company, lively music, and the possibility of finding love.

Travelling to Lisdoonvarna

Lisdoonvarna is a small town on Ireland’s rugged west coast, located in County Clare. It is easily accessible from various parts of the country.

By Air: The nearest airport is Shannon Airport, about 60 kilometres from Lisdoonvarna. Shannon Airport is well-connected to major UK and European cities, making it a convenient entry point for international visitors. You can hire a car from the airport or take a bus to Lisdoonvarna.

By Car: The journey from Dublin takes approximately 3 hours. From Galway, it’s about an hour’s drive, and from Limerick, it’s around 1.5 hours. The drive-through County Clare offers stunning views of the Irish countryside, mainly if you take the coastal route along the Wild Atlantic Way.

By Public Transport: Bus Éireann operates services to Lisdoonvarna from several cities, including Galway and Limerick. The bus journey from Galway takes about 1.5 hours, while from Limend 2 hours. Limerick also has local bus services connecting Lisdoonvarna with nearby towns and villages.

Where to stay for the Matchmaking Festival?

Despite its small size, Lisdoonvarna offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets. Here are some recommended places to stay for the Matchmaking Festival:

The Hydro Hotel

The Hydro Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Lisdoonvarna, with a history dating back to the 19th century. This charming hotel combines traditional elegance with modern amenities, offering comfortable rooms and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Located in the heart of the town, the Hydro Hotel is at the centre of the festival activities, making it an ideal choice for those who want to be close to the action.

The Imperial Hotel

The Imperial Hotel is a popular choice during the Matchmaking Festival, mainly because it’s where Willie Daly conducts his matchmaking sessions. The hotel has a lively atmosphere, with regular live music and events throughout the festival. The rooms are comfortable and well-appointed, and the hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore Lisdoonvarna.

Sheedy’s Hotel and Restaurant

For those seeking a more boutique experience, Sheedy’s Hotel and Restaurant offers a tranquil retreat focusing on quality and service. This family-run hotel is known for its warm hospitality and excellent dining, with a menu showcasing the best local produce. The rooms are tastefully decorated, and the hotel’s peaceful setting provides a relaxing escape from the festival’s hustle and bustle.

Rathbaun Hotel

If you’re looking for a lively and fun atmosphere, the Rathbaun Hotel is a great option. Known as the “Music Hotel,” it hosts live traditional Irish music every night during the festival. The hotel’s friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and central location make it a popular choice for arrival-goers.

Exploring Lisdoonvarna and the Surrounding Area

While the Matchmaking Festival is the main draw, Lisdoonvarna and the surrounding area have plenty to offer visitors regarding natural beauty, history, and culture.

The Burren

One of the most unique landscapes in Ireland, the Burren is a vast limestone plateau that covers much of North Clare. This UNESCO Global Geopark is home to a fascinating variety of flora and fauna, with rare plants found nowhere else in the country. The Burren’s stark beauty is captivating, with its rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and ancient monuments. Hiking and guided tours are popular ways to explore this remarkable area, and the nearby Burren National Park offers several marked trails.

The Cliffs of Moher

Doolin

The nearby village of Doolin is famous for its traditional Irish music scene. Many visitors to Lisdoonvarna make a short trip to Doolin to experience the lively music sessions in its cosy pubs. Doolin is also a gateway to the Aran Islands, with ferries departing regularly from the village’s harbour. A visit to the Aran Islands offers a glimpse into a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries, with ancient forts, stunning landscapes, and a robust cultural heritage.

Ailwee Cave

A short drive from Lisdoonvarna, Ailwee Cave is one of Ireland’s most famous show caves. Discovered in the 1940s, the cave is a fascinating underground world of stalactites, stalagmites, and winding passages. Guided tours take visitors deep into the cave, providing insights into its geological formations and the area’s history. Above ground, the Ailwee Cave complex also includes a Birds of Prey Centre, where visitors can see hawks, owls, and eagles up close.

Kilfenora

Known as the “City of the Crosses,” Kilfenora is a small village with a rich ecclesiastical history. The Kilfenora Cathedral, built in the 12th century, houses some of Ireland’s finest examples of high crosses. The town is also home to the Burren Centre, which offers exhibitions and information about the Burren’s unique landscape and history. Kilfenora is just a short drive from Lisdoonvarna, making for an interesting and culturally enriching day trip.

The Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival is more than just a quirky tradition; it’s a celebration of love, music, and community that brings people together from all walks of life. Whether you’re seeking romance, friendship, or a memorable experience, the festival offers something for everyone. Beyond the festival, Lisdoonvarna and the surrounding area provide a wealth of opportunities for exploration, from the otherworldly landscapes of The Burren to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher.

Whether attending the festival or exploring County Clare’s natural and cultural treasures, Lisdoonvarna offers a warm welcome and a unique experience that will leave you with lasting memories of this particular part of Ireland.