Seachtain na Gaeilge – Celebrating Irish Language and Culture
Seachtain na Gaeilge was first established in 1903 by Conradh na Gaeilge with the aim of promoting the everyday use of the Irish language. It evolved from Lá Mór na Gaeilge, which originally took place around St. Patrick’s Day and was primarily targeted at schools and young people, encouraging them to use Irish outside of the classroom setting.
Since its humble beginnings, Seachtain na Gaeilge has grown into Féile Náisiúnta na Gaeilge—a vibrant, nationwide festival that celebrates Irish language and culture across all age groups and communities. The festival is organised on a county-by-county basis, with local branches of Conradh na Gaeilge coordinating events under the guidance of the national office.
The festival offers a wide variety of activities, ranging from informal ciorcail chomhrá (conversation circles) and street céilís, to more creative and engaging events such as speed dating as Gaeilge, wine tasting, storytelling, music sessions, workshops, and more. Whether you're fluent or trying Irish for the first time, there's something for everyone.
Each year, a diverse array of organisations take part, including local councils, schools, libraries, sports clubs, cultural groups, and musicians—all registering their Irish-language events with the festival.
In County Clare, a comprehensive Register of Events is published in collaboration with Clare County Council’s Irish Office, covering activities across the county throughout the festival.
For more information and to explore events near you, visit: www.snag.ie
