Date: 10 Jun 2025
Launch of the 38th Annual Earagail Arts Festival
Pat the Cope Gallagher TD officially launched the 2025 Earagail Arts Festival Programme in Gaoth Dobhair on Friday 6th June.
The official launch of the 38th festival programme was performed by Deputy Gallagher at a public reception in An Chúirt Hotel with musical entertainment by talented young trad group Líofa featuring Nia Ní Bheirn and Aoibhín Ní Dheagha on fiddle and Cillian Mac Grianna on guitar.
Paul Brown, CEO / Artistic Director of Earagail Arts Festival, said they were very proud to celebrate the launch of the 2025 festival in Gaoth Dobhair at the foot of the mountain that is its namesake.
He said: “Since its inception 38 years ago our aim has been to reach out to as many of the people of Donegal as possible and as part of our strategic plan over the last 3 years we have set out to reach communities in East Donegal and this year in addition to a programme running from Malin to Ballybofey from Letterkenny to Dunlewey, Inishbofin to Tory we're delighted to be presenting our first event in Donegal Town.
“Earagail, Donegal’s iconic landmark provides a beacon to people locally and visitors from near and far as a symbol of the unique cultural identity of Donegal.
“This county is the most beautiful backdrop to our extensive programme of events and such an amazing stage on which to showcase the world class artists that call this place home as well as the diverse range of international artists from all over the world who we bring to the doorsteps of our towns and villages.
“Importantly, in these fractious times, festivals bring people together, to share our stories, our emotions and our collective experiences.
We’re not here to solve all the problems of our times but hopefully together we can create more hope and unity.”
Tomás Gribben, Sales Manager of An Chúirt Hotel, said they were proud to support events that strengthen local culture, provide meaningful experiences, and foster creative collaboration.
“Cultural tourism is one of the fastest-growing areas in the travel industry, and events like the Earagail Arts Festival are a key reason people choose to visit regions like ours.
“When we invest in the arts, we are also investing in our tourism sector- it supports local businesses, fills hotels and restaurants, and creates lasting impressions that bring visitors back time and time again.
“On behalf of the Gallen Group & the Gallen Family, I would like to extend our sincere thanks to all who help bring this festival to life, from the generous sponsors, to the many volunteers working behind the scenes who are the heart and soul of the festival, and of course, the gifted artists and performers who will be sharing their talents with us from 12th - 26th July. Your dedication and passion are the foundation upon which this festival stands,” he said.
Fadl Mustapha, Chair of the festival’s Board of Directors, said Earagail Arts Festival is more than just a series of events.
“As we embark on this year's festivity, as we plunge into another unforgettable two weeks of music, theatre, poetry and shared experiences, let's remember this festival is a reflection of us. It's a celebration of what we can achieve when we come together, support one another and dare to imagine a more connected, creative world.
“It's a testament of what happens when a community comes together in support of creativity, connections and shared joy. Remember this isn't just a programme of events, it's living and breathing proof of what happens when we choose to create together.
“So thank you to every sponsor, every artist, every audience member, every past and present board member, every staff person and every volunteer.
“This is your festival, let's make it unforgettable. And now, let the mountains echo with music, let the streets hum with stories and let the real magic begin.”
Deputy Gallagher recalled the first time he officially launched the festival in 2011, when he was a member of the European Parliament.
“It was very successful, we had the smoked Irish salmon and Irish bread, and event those who didn't even know where Ireland was were all delighted to be able to participate in that launch at that time,”.
The deputy said he was pleased to once again mark the official launch of the Earagail Arts Festival programme.
“It's a highly-acclaimed annual cultural celebration bringing together international and domestic artists in some of the most breathtaking beauty locations of the world.
“I want to thank you for giving me the opportunity for to launch the festival and i have no doubt that from Friday the 11th of July to Sunday, Saturday the 26th of July the country, the county and all parts will be buzzing and the 40,000 who come here that they will have a most enjoyable and exciting a couple of.”
Earagail Arts Festival is kindly supported by Donegal County Council, The Arts Council / An Chomhairle Ealaíon and Wild Atlantic Way. Visit eaf.ie for more information and bookings.
