The Calling:
​January 20-30, 2022

We were not impressed in having to postpone Calling 2021- but felt very lucky that we got to enjoy it in January 2020, before the world shut down... but we are BACK for 2022, and cannot wait! 

We are just SO READY to welcome you to Ireland, and THE CALLING trip in January is a fantastic option. What could be better than escaping the January Blues by flying over to Ireland and enjoying not one, but two Irish music festivals- one on the stunning, scenic Wild Atlantic Way, and then Tradfest in Dublin City. This is an Irish experience that truly has the best of both worlds. There are options to do history, culture and guided trips with us- but there are also plenty 'me-time' options. You're with the locals, we show you the best places, the best restaurants, the secret spots, and then bring you the absolute best of Irish musicians. Weather in January, you say? We say it's probably very much milder than where you live now, it's always beautiful, and shelter is by a roaring fire, with a pint and a live gig. It would be mad not to do this if you can!

'The Calling' is a unique music and cultural tour of Ireland, incorporating not just one, but two music & culture festivals! This trip takes place in two locations- first, in beautiful remote County Donegal, on Ireland's famous 'Wild Atlantic Way', where you will be introduced to the history, culture and music of Ireland by the local historians, artists and musicians. 

The second part of the trip is in Dublin, for the largest and best Festival of Irish Music- Tradfest. Tradfest takes place over four days, in various different venues around the city. Many of the venues are places of historical and cultural significance, and they provide a very evocative atmosphere for the performances. Tradfest brings the very best of contemporary and legendary Irish musicians and bands together in one place. 

What's included in your trip:

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​Atlantic IrishFest

The Northwest of Ireland has long been celebrated for its unique Atlantic culture and history. Your trip begins with five days in beautiful Donegal, right on the Atlantic Coast. Your hosts will be Niamh and John, who will treat you to a cultural experience that will include talks on Irish history, language, folklore and mythology, guided tours to castles, cliffs and caves, quaint villages and ancient sites. We'll bring you to the best foodie spots, the best pubs, and in the evenings, have we got music for you!  You'll have your own apartment, downstairs is the Irish pub & live music venue, we're on main street, and it's two minutes to walk to the beach, local restaurants and grocery stores, pharmacy and other services. 

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​Dublin TradFest

After five days on the Wild Atlantic Way, you'll be ready for the bright lights of Dublin, and the brilliant TRADFEST. Now in its 16th year, Tradfest is a festival featuring the cream of both Irish and international trad and folk artists.  Not only does Tradfest feature the very best of Irish music, but gigs are located in venues all around Dublin's city center, many of them in historic locations like Dublin Castle, City Hall and Christ Church Cathedral. There is a huge choice as well- from lunchtime pub sessions, evening concerts, and absolutely lots going on. Your ticket allows to choose the performances you want to attend in advance, (subject to availability)  and cost is included in your trip fee 

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Included 

Many people who visit Ireland don't want to do the 'tour' thing, but would like some guidance and local interaction. So when you arrive, Niamh and John will introduce you to all you need to know, fill you in on the history and culture, and take you to some wonderful places. When we get to Dublin for Tradfest, you'll decide what gigs and events to go to, who to go with, at your own pace and time. You'll be in a city center hotel, and you can take everything at your own pace. It's perfect. Your fees include all your accommodation & breakfasts, all the musical performances, guided trips and talks, and your transfers from Dublin-Donegal. 

Download full programme

Trip Details

• 10-day trip spanning two Irish cultural festivals and a host of cultural activities in between.
  • Four nights in County Donegal (including a trip to Derry City)
  • Five nights in Dublin - TradFest ticket includes launch, three lunchtime performances, three evening performances. Cultural classes, live music gigs and guided tours.
    
    
• Daily history/culture lectures, live music performances, incredible culinary experiences and adventure activities.
  
  
• Optional extras available.
  
  
• Accommodation 
  • Dublin 4★ city center hotel
  •  Donegal self-catering apartments with on-site pub and music venue on the Atlantic Coast. Dublin meal plan includes daily full Irish breakfast.
  • Donegal meal plan includes daily continental breakfast buffet and three restaurant evening meals.

*NOT INCLUDED: Airfare to Ireland, travel insurance, optional adventure activities, beverages and gratuities, airport transfer to Dublin hotel. 
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• "What about the weather?!" - and more FAQs here.

Refundable Deposit: $99 (Usually $580)

2022 Fees: $1795 (Usually $1995)

Pay Deposit ($99)

Answer the Call.

If you are interested in our 'The Calling' trip but have a few questions first, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are happy to set up an online chat with you to discuss any of your questions. Simply complete the form here, and we'll be in touch.