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Cruinniu na mBadCrinniu na mBad is Ireland's best kept festival secret. Situated 20 minutes by car from the Cliffs of Moher, in the heartland of traditional Irish music this festival will not dissapoint. Watch the graceful Galway Hooker boats glide across the bay & sing the night away as pubs bounce to the sounds of the bodhran.
(Also known as Cruinniu na mBad, gathering of the boats, Hooker boat festival, currach boat festival, hooker racing galway, hooker racing kinvara, kinvara boat festival, galway boat festival) 
When Usually the second weekend in August. (The first weekend in August is a national Irish bank holiday)
Where Kinvara, South Co. Galway - just beside Co. Clare. Where to stay There are great bed and breakfasts located in Kinvara and also accomodation is available in Kilcolgan & Gort. Galway city is only a forty minute drive away. Why The words Cruinniu na mBad are Gaelic, they translate as "Gathering of the boats". This festival is dedicated to the beautiful Galway Hooker boats which were used to transport turf across Galway bay. This is another great Irish excuse for enjoying life and appreciating music and tradition.
Who This festival is suitable for all ages. The night life is great craic and traditional music sessions you will never forget.
What else can I do ? There are almost too many things to do in this part of Ireland. Noone should visit EUROPE without seeing The Cliffs of Moher. Then of course 20 minutes North you have The Burren another geographical wonder with the Aillwee Caves. Breathtaking scenery and natural wonders everywhere. There is also Caherconnell Stone Fort and Dungaire Castle if that's what floats your boat ! If you're looking to get a little more active try Dun Loghan beach outside of BallyConnelly in Connermara. Also there are beautiful beaches South of Kinvara in Co. Clare namely Spanish Point (where the Spanish landed in Ireland), Doonbeg & Lahinch. If you have time try to get out to the Aran Islands. Basic but breathtaking - these slands are one of a kinds ! FYI! The boats with a sail are the Hooker boats and the ones without are called a Currach.
Getting There Kinvara is signposted from Galway City, The Burren & Gort. The closest airport is in Galway. DONT MISS THIS The loading of the turf boats - usually on the Friday. Also the nightlife - amazing music.
Bank/ATM McMahons Garage & the local Londis both have ATM's Internet Doorus House Hostel offer excellent rates in Kinvara. Cruinniu na mBad most "official" website
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