Ballybunion is buzzing…
With a host of indoor, street and beach events throughout the year, Ballybunion is a brilliant spot for partaking in some unique activities and events.
Ballybunion is an ideal location for beach art with its vast stretches of beautiful fine sands and the natural viewing points from the cliffs, walkways and Castle Green. In May, the Wild Atlantic Way Sand Art Event brings a host of national and international sand artists to Ballybunion’s beaches to showcase examples of spectacular sand art on a large scale over several days. Part of the event will see local children and community groups embracing the beach as a canvas for unleashing their creativity, guided by the pros.
The main event involves numerous artists working simultaneously on each of Ballybunion’s four beaches – the Long Strand, Men’s Beach, Ladies’ Beach and Nuns’ Beach – each with their own unique creations, from sea creatures to swirls and spirals. Who knows, one day you might see an enormous sea monster stretching from the cliffs all the way down to the Cashen.
Discover MOYA, a festival of Meditation, Ocean, Yoga and Art in breath-taking Ballybunion on the Wild Atlantic Way. Let your troubles sink in the golden sand as you inhale invigorating sea air. Reconnect with your creativity and intuition through an array of workshops. Experience rejuvenation and healing with experts in the fields of holistic therapy, nutrition, yoga and meditation. Embrace your artistic side with art classes en plein air, meditation with mandela art, photography or creative writing.
Feel the vibes with Tibetan singing bowls and drumming workshops. Get your energy flowing with chakranetics and yoga flow. Immerse yourself in MOYA and all it has to offer.
The MOYA Wellness Festival takes place over the May and October Bank Holidays each year.
The annual Women In Media Conference takes place in the opulent setting of Kilcooly’s Country House in April. The conference offers an impressive range of media-themed events and discussions, championing in particular the role of Irish Women in Media. Each year guarantees a thought-provoking panel of high-calibre speakers. Previous panellists include Joan Burton, Katherine Zappone, Frances Fitzgerald, Catherine Shanahan, Dr. Aoibhinn Ní Shúilleabháin, Lorna Byrne, Olivia O’Leary, Caitriona Perry, Mary Dundon and Miriam O’Callaghan.
A gala dinner and awards ceremony also takes place in Kilcooly’s Country House on the Saturday of the conference. The conference is open to the public and a variety of ticket options is available.
A shot of some 280 yards to hit the ball from cliff to cliff is, in itself is a huge feat and beyond the capabilities of most amateur players, though it is possible. However, getting the ball to remain in the air for a carry of some 330 yards does seem like “Mission Impossible” but there are those who are willing to try. While all this is going on, local musicians perform in the caves close by, where the acoustics are tremendous.
Every Easter crowds descend on Ballybunion to participate in Run Ballybunion. Taking place annually on Easter Saturday, with options of a Half Marathon or a 10km Road Race, runners are guaranteed a challenge but also a rewarding experience, whatever their level of fitness. The route starts outside Kilcooly’s Country House in town and takes you along stunning coastline on Kerry’s stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way, winding your way up and down hills and through lush North Kerry farming country.
If the race doesn’t take your breath away, the scenery certainly will for around each corner is a view more beautiful than the last. And, once you’ve availed of the complimentary hot food in Kilcooly’s, you might muster up the motivation to celebrate your achievement in one of Ballybunion’s many watering holes on possibly the busiest night of the year.
Teams from all over Ireland, with many players originally from further afield, will descend on Ballybunion in August to battle it out when the Beach Volleyball Ireland Tour comes to town. This two-day tournament takes place on Ladies’ Beach, one of Ballybunion’s two Blue Flag beaches and often described as a “natural amphitheatre”, making it an ideal location.
The beach volleyball tournament promises plenty of action and excitement so come along and cheer them on.
Recent live acts include Christy Moore in Concert, comedy from Pat Shortt, as well as numerous musicals, pantos and theatrical performances. It can cater to conferences and groups and is available for local events and fundraisers. It also hosts Bingo every Monday night throughout the year. Conveniently located in town, just off Church Road, there is ample car parking and bus parking.
