The Calling:
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2026 Lineup
Cairdeas TRAD SHOWCASE - SATURDAY JAN 17
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Cairdeas is a traditional Irish music group hailing from Donegal, a region known for its rich musical heritage. The band consists of talented musicians from two families in Ballyshannon - the O'Briens and the McGraths who are deeply passionate about preserving and sharing the traditional tunes and songs of Ireland. These musicians are also teachers of Irish traditional music, and for this showcase they will demonstrate to you where the music begins - you'll be introduced to musicians and dancers and performers of all ages who keep the flame burning and make sure the tradition will continue for generations.
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CLANN MHIC RUAIRí SUNDAY JAN 18
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Clann Mhic Ruairí are an Irish folk/trad band. They are a family group, made up of siblings Tony (singer), Aodh (singer/guitar), Sean (singer), Dónall (singer/percussion) and Tony’s daughter Megan (piano and singer). As a family they were raised on the Gaelic songs and stories of the ‘Rann na Feirste Gaeltacht’ in County Donegal, (Gaelic speaking area) in the North West corner of Ireland. The members of Clann Mhic Ruairí are individual artists in their own right, each member having performed over the years on solo projects and with other artists and groups. In 2013 they decide to formally come together as Clann Mhic Ruairí and the preservation of the song tradition of ‘Rann na Feirste’ is foremost in their mind. Much of their repertoire are songs which were composed and sung in their locality for hundreds of years. They perform these traditional songs with a contemporary, innovative and inspirational approach, retaining the traditional purity and integrity of the song.
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Johnny Gallagher - An Evening in Leo's Bar, Home of Clannad and ENya - Monday Jan 19
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A trip to Donegal's most famous music pub - situated along the Wild Atlantic Way, between the popular destinations of Mount Errigal and the Atlantic Ocean, Leo's Tavern is renowned for its music being the family home of world famous musical talents Enya, Clannad and Moya Brennan.
Our music this evening is provided by Johnny Gallagher, a guitar virtuoso with a repetoire from Irish traditional to Irish Ballad to American Country to Rhythm and Blues, and Rock and Roll. |
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EARLY'S ARRANMORE ISLAND SESSION TUESDAY JAN 20
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Nothing like taking the ferry to an off-shore Donegal Island for getting the full effect of Irish Language + Irish Music, dressed in salty air and Irish bogs, sea cliffs and miles of Atlantic Ocean. Our session is open to any musicians or singers on the trip, so bring your instrument and play a part in this amazing Ireland experience.
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THE WHILEAWAYS TUESDAY JAN 20
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The Whileaways are Noelie McDonnell, Noriana Kennedy and Nicola Joyce. The are three accomplished singers who had each toured and recorded extensively with their separate projects before coming together as a band. With over a dozen albums to their collective credit, and having played gigs and festivals all over the world, they began to admire each other’s singing at sessions in their home-town of Galway.
This trio of song-writers came together in 2012 and since then have released four critically acclaimed albums. Their spell-binding live performances are legendary, and they played their first gig with us in Bundoran in 2025 - we immediately invited them to come back for THE CALLING - we know you will love them! The Whileaways have garnered high praise from the music press both at home and abroad being described as “among the finest singers in the country” (Hot Press) and their music as “profound and insightful, tightly woven, experimental, fresh and energetic” (Irish Music Magazine). |
What's included in your trip:
Atlantic Irish Fest
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 TradFestAfter five days on the Wild Atlantic Way, you'll be ready for the bright lights of Dublin, and the brilliant TRADFEST. Now in its 21st 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 St. Patricks Cathedral and Malahide Castle. There is a huge choice as well- from lunchtime pub sessions, evening concerts, and absolutely lots going on. Your ticket includes three evening concerts and a VIP reception, and includes transfers to and from the concerts and reception.
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IncludedMany 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, we'll include suggested gigs and get you there and back. 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 suggested musical performances, guided trips and talks, and your transfers from Dublin-Donegal.
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Trip Details |
*NOT INCLUDED: Airfare to Ireland, travel insurance, optional adventure activities, beverages and gratuities, airport transfer to Dublin hotel. Trip fee based on Double Occupancy | Single Supplement: $700* Deposit: $99
EARLYBIRD PRICE: $2950 |
Answer the Call.
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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.
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