Things To Do in Ennis

The town of Ennis in County Clare is famous for its narrow winding streets, historic ruins, and traditional music. If you are looking for things to do in Ennis you might consider one of the festivals. There are quite a few annual festivals based in the town and if you are planning a trip to the area, aligning your visit with one of the many fantastic festivals in Ennis is recommended.

Traditional Irish music, literature, and the performing arts, are among the themes of the festivals in Ennis. Here are some of the top festivals in Ennis, County Clare, including when they take place and what you can expect.

1. Ennis Book Club Festival

When: First weekend in March
What is it: Kicking off the spring season, the Ennis Book Club Festival is a literary lover’s dream. It attracts readers, authors, and book club members from all over the world. The weekend is packed with engaging author interviews, panel discussions, poetry readings, and walking tours. It is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Ireland’s rich literary heritage in an intimate, welcoming setting.
Find out more at The Ennis Book Club Festival website

2. Clare Garden Festival

When: Late March
What is it: The Clare Garden Festival is a treat for Gardeners and a great day out for all the family. Garden & Food stalls from all over Ireland join the popular festival every year at the end of April with stallholders coming from near and far. The festival offers a great series of Garden Expert talks from an accessible stage and has much to offer and discover for young and older gardeners from demonstrations to workshops.
Find out more at The Clare Garden Festival website.

3. Fleadh Nua

When: Late May/Early June
What is it: If you want to experience the very soul of County Clare, Fleadh Nua is the event of the year. Since relocating to Ennis in 1974, this festival has blossomed into one of Ireland’s premier celebrations of traditional Irish culture. Over the course of a week, the town’s streets and pubs overflow with traditional music concerts, céilís (Irish dancing), street entertainment, and singing sessions. It is an unforgettable, toe-tapping experience.
Find out more at The Fleadh Nua Website

4. Ennis Street Arts Festival

When: July
What is it: Celebrating the visual and performing arts, the Ennis Street Arts Festival transforms the town into a colorful outdoor gallery and stage. Perfect for families, this summer festival features everything from mesmerizing acrobatics and puppetry to street painting, comedy, and interactive art workshops. It brings a magical, bohemian energy to the streets of the town centre.
Find out more at Ennis Street Arts Festival Facebook Page

5. Ennis Trad Festival

When: Early November
What is it: As the winter nights draw in, the Ennis Trad Festival warms the town back up with a world-class celebration of Irish traditional music. Designed for both hardcore traditional music aficionados and casual listeners, the festival features masterclasses, album launches, and an incredible trail of pub sessions. Musicians from all over the globe gather here to play, making it a spectacular seasonal highlight.
Find out more at Ennis Trad Fest Website

There is always a reason to visit Ennis. You may be visiting for other reasons but why not take in a festival. There are always lots things to do in Ennis during a festival.