10 reasons to visit Kerry in 2013 - The Gathering, Ireland

Kerry is known around the world for its stunning scenery and amazing natural amenities, which include the likes of Skellig Michael, Killarney National Park and Carrantoohil. But there are many other reasons to visit the region, especially with a whole host of events planned for The Gathering Ireland 2013. 

The Gathering Ireland 2013 - 10 reasons to visit Kerry in 2013

Matchmaker, matchmaker, make me a match - The Gathering, Ireland

Each September, thousands of single people flock to the small town of Lisdoonvarna in Co Clare in the hopes of meeting their match at the long-running Matchmaking Festival. Some simply move and mingle at the day-long dances, but others prefer to put their fate of finding a plus-one in the hands of a professional. 

The Gathering Ireland 2013 - Matchmaker, matchmaker, make me a match

The Gathering Ireland 2013 - Welcome to Dublin Town

From the friendly people and one-of-a-kind establishments to the city centre buskers and loads of green spaces, there are a million reasons why Dublin is a great place to be, even if it’s just for a day or two. 

The Gathering Ireland 2013 - Welcome to Dublin Town

10 reasons to visit Limerick in 2013 - The Gathering Ireland

Throughout Co Limerick, people and organizations are getting in on the fun of The Gathering. The county has a jam-packed calendar of festivals and special events throughout 2013, with so many that you won’t want to miss. Though we must admit it wasn’t easy to pick just 10 events, here are some of the highlights to look out for this year. 

The Gathering Ireland 2013 - 10 reasons to visit Limerick in 2013

96 reasons to be proud of your heritage: Connacht and Ulster

We’ve all read the school history book – words on a page about ‘what’s-his-name’. We’re asked to memorise dates and places and learn off parts of our history that are explained in a few hundred words. If you’re lucky, you might see a drawing of a battle or a painting depicting a King in all his regal finery. Learn More: The Gathering Ireland 2013 - 96 reasons to be proud of your heritage: Connacht and Ulster

The Gathering Ireland 2013 - All about trad

What makes Irish music so celebrated worldwide? Why is chancing upon an evening of informal music in a pub often the highlight of a visitor's trip to Ireland? And why is breaking into song the Irish response to almost any event, whether it’s the joy of friends getting together, the sadness of friends parting, or the extremes of sporting success and failure? Learn More: The Gathering Ireland 2013 - All about trad

Your Gathering Idea

There are so many ways you can showcase your community, business, club or association. No idea is too big, too small or too quirky. Decide early on what exactly you want your event to achieve. Maybe you want to showcase a particular tradition associated with your community or celebrate a unique impact it has made on the world. Your gathering could have a community development theme so that visitors can make a positive contribution to their place of origin. Or maybe 2013 could simply be the perfect opportunity for a family reunion. If you’re not sure what direction you want to take, you can find inspiration on www.thegatheringireland.com.

Remember that your event doesn’t have to be an entirely new one. You can also add to an existing local event. Organisations such as the Irish Farmers’ Association, the GAA, Scouting Ireland, The Irish Countrywomen’s Association and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann are mobilising members all over Ireland. Find out what’s planned in your area and consider ways to work together.

Whether you’re planning a school or family reunion, genealogy event or business gathering, remember the overall objective: encouraging visitors to spend time in Ireland in 2013.

Let Celtic Tours World Vacations help plan your Gathering in Ireland, 2013.

7 Tips to Plan a Successful Gathering

The Gathering in Ireland is a year-long celebration of all that is unique and great about Ireland: our vibrant, living culture, heritage and people. Plan your 2013 Gathering in Ireland! Here are 7 tips to plan a successful Gathering:

1. Work with Celtic Tours World Vacations!
With over 40 years in the business of planning quality and affordable vacations to Ireland, we know Ireland! Let us help you plan your group trip to Ireland for the Gathering, 2013

2. Decide who you want to invite
The Gathering, Ireland is about getting back to your roots, learning your history and having a lot of fun in the process! To plan the best Gathering possible, you first have to decide who you want to invite. Seek out your connections around the US such as friends, family, school and work colleagues and start communicating with them now. Get them involved in the planning and excited about visiting Ireland in 2013!

3. Schedule your Gathering around existing events
Don't do it alone! Throughout Ireland there will be events from sports to concerts and festivals. Join in the crowd and rub elbows with distant relatives.

4. Actively involve your group
Get your group involved in the planning of your group trip to Ireland. Think of ways for them to participate that will help them reconnect with their ancestral community. For example, being part of a community development project in Ireland could be a meaningful experience for the visitor to Ireland and let them leave a lasting legacy to be proud of.

5. Keep the local press informed
Stay in touch with the local press such as radio and tv stations, newspapers, local journalists and editors. Send good quality press releases - this is a great way to reach a lot of people for FREE!

6. Utilize your resources
When you book your group trip to Ireland with Celtic Tours World Vacations, you get free color flyers and co-op advertising. There are also a lot of valuable resources for your Gathering available at www.thegatheringireland.com including posters, invites and How to guides.

7. Share your experiences
Like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and tell us about it - we love to hear about your travels to Ireland with Celtic Tours World Vacations

Excited to visit Ireland with your group? Give Celtic Tours World Vacations a call to start planning today! 1-800-833-4373

Celtic Tours Offers Group Packages for The Gathering, Ireland

Celtic Tours World Vacations is pleased to offer group packages for the Gathering in Ireland, 2013. The Gathering, Ireland is a year-long celebration of being Irish. Whether you are Irish-born or Irish in spirit, Ireland is calling you to Ireland to celebrate with her and Celtic Tours World Vacations has group packages for you. Celtic Tours is pleased to offer group space in regularly scheduled departures of our escorted tours, or design your own gathering with the group department at Celtic Tours World Vacations. Gather your friends and family and jump into Ireland for the Gathering, 2013.