Inis Bó Finne island will be brimming with artistic energy and community spirit as it welcomes Turas Úr’s “Cruithaitheacht Cois Farraige,” a distinctive, bilingual arts and culture celebration. This event honors the Gaeltacht’s rich traditions, language, and creative talent.
Grounded in the island’s heritage and stunning landscape, this one-day event offers visitors a chance to delve into a vibrant program featuring visual art, poetry, music, and interactive workshops – all presented in both Gaeilge and English.
Turas Úr is supported by Ealaín na Gaelteacht and Donegal County Council, and is part of the Earagail Arts Festival. The event offers a compelling celebration of contemporary culture deeply connected to its place and traditions.
Event Highlights Include:
- Island Art Trail
An open-air exhibition of temporary sculptures, soundscapes, and installations inspired by the natural beauty of Inis Bó Finne. Featuring artists from the Gaeltacht and guest artists, all works adhere to a “leave no trace” principle, respecting the island’s environment. - Poetry Performances from Open Call
Three selected poets, both local and national, will present original pieces inspired by the island, performed live during the event. This bilingual program, developed in collaboration with the local community, provides a platform for authentic storytelling and poetic reflection. The poems were selected by renowned poet Marie Dinny Wren. - Artist Residency
Barra Cassidy from Sligo was selected for a week-long residency to live and create on Inis Bó Finne, culminating in a new artwork that responds to the island’s culture, people, and history. - Bilingual Workshops
Family-friendly arts workshops will take place on the event day, engaging communities across the region. The resulting creations will be displayed along the art trail, emphasizing collaboration between the island and the mainland. - En Plein Air Painting
Renowned artist Ian Gordon will be joined by the Plein Eire painting group. Bring your paints and easel and participate!
- Traditional Céilí at the Island Hall
The festivities will conclude with a vibrant traditional céilí, bringing together local and visiting musicians for an evening of music, dancing, and a celebration of island life.
“This is more than just an arts event – it’s a celebration of community, language, and the creative spirit of this place,” said Leanne McLaughlin, the event organizer. “Turas Úr invites everyone to discover the unique culture of Inis Bó Finne, through poetry, music, art, or simply by being part of the day’s activities.”
Event Date: Saturday, July 26, 2025 from 14:00-18:00
Location: Inis Bó Finne, County Donegal
Admission: Free | Ferries and additional info at turasur.com
Poetry, music, and art converge for free event on Inis Bó Finne was last modified: July 22nd, 2025 by