Arts & Culture in The North West Region of Ireland

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The north-west of Ireland is a hotbed of artistic and literary talent and it has been that way for quite some time. With a trip to the north-west you can explore the origins of world-famous poets like William Butler Yeats and Patrick Kavanagh, enjoy traditional Irish music in almost every town and village, and sample some of the many great festivals that light up the region each summer.

Top of any fan of literature's list will bey a visit to Co Sligo – Yeats country. Visit 'The Lake Isle of Innisfree', the subject of one of his most famous poems and see the Yeats Memorial Building in Sligo town. Not far away in Monaghan lies the home place of Patrick Kavanagh.

No doubt you will want to sample some traditional Irish music on your trip to the north-west region. In pubs all across the region you will find Irish music 'sessions' every night of the week as well as other festivals and events. You should also check out the Coleman Traditional Irish Music Centre in Gurteen, Co Sligo, where the visitor centre gives an insight into the history of traditional music in the area and also hosts special events.

All across the region you will find theatres and venues celebrating local and international arts and music. An Grianan Theatre in Letterkenny, Donegal and Hawk's Well Theatre Sligo are among the best in the region. The local festivals are also not to be missed. Throughout the year, and especially in summer, you will find some of the best festivals in the country, including Earagail Arts Festival and Ballyshannon Music Festival, both in Donegal.

The north-west of Ireland is steeped in arts and culture. Its rich heritage and the nurturing of new talent means there is something for everyone. Even the streets are lined with public art and there are free events throughout the year.