Where the Light Lingers: Midsummer Magic on the Island of Ireland
Ireland is a magical place to celebrate the summer solstice, with festivals, rituals at ancient sites and a rich tradition of communing with nature on the longest day of the year.
Giant of the Sperrins - Ceoldán, The Star Gazer, Davagh Forest Dark Sky Park, Co. Tyrone
The summer solstice is one of the eight sacred days in Ireland’s Celtic tradition and is a time to celebrate nature, light and new beginnings.
With around 16 hours of daylight on Midsummer’s Day (the summer solstice), there is more than enough time to venture into and enjoy Ireland’s beautiful landscapes, visit an ancient monument and discover the traditions surrounding it, or have fun at a lively festival.
Why not begin summer solstice day with a sunrise dip in the sea followed by a hearty breakfast with friends, two brilliant ways to boost mood and connect to nature and people. Or head for one of Ireland’s ancient sacred sites where the summer solstice has been marked for centuries.
At the Hill of Tara in County Meath, the ancient seat of the high kings of Ireland, people often gather to witness the solstice sunrise, many believing that there is a special energy there and a connection with the past. The hill has been an important site of worship since pre-Christian times and is steeped in legend. Beyond its mystical significance, it also affords fantastic views over the countryside.
If Tara is your destination, indulge yourself with a stay in nearby Bellinter House, a magnificent Georgian mansion set in serene surroundings and boasting a world-class spa. Based here, you can explore all that the Boyne Valley has to offer, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Newgrange.
Neolithic stone monuments dot the island of Ireland and some are particularly associated with the summer solstice. In County Sligo, you can visit the Carrowkeel cairns to see the setting sun entering the roof box in the chamber of Cairn G, a tomb that is thousands of years old. The cairns are set high in the Bricklieve Mountains, a dramatic landscape that is perfect for combining a hike with an exploration of Ireland’s ancient past. Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa is ideal for those seeking opulent accommodation in this area, while Sligo Park Hotel offers easy access to buzzing Sligo town and to the magnificent Wild Atlantic Way and top surfing spots.
In the Sperrin Mountains in County Tyrone, another excellent hiking area, you will find the Beaghmore megalithic complex, a collection of seven circles of standing stones that align with the stars and with the summer solstice sunrise. These Neolithic markers connect us with past communities who would have gathered here to celebrate important events. To immerse yourself in this landscape, stay in nearby Sperrin View Glamping and enjoy luxury camping in fully furnished pods or chalets. The pods have special viewing windows to let you gaze at the stars in this Dark Sky area, while relaxing in comfort.
You can also follow The Giants of the Sperrins Sculpture Trail to find three unique artworks created by internationally renowned Danish artist, Thomas Dambo. The giant wooden sculptures evoke the legends, history and beauty of the Sperrin Mountains.
2023, Cork Midsummer Festival, Parade, Cork City
Music and feasting are also important elements in the Irish celebrations of the summer solstice. At Cork Midsummer Festival (13–22 June), you’ll find the biggest midsummer celebration on the island. The festival is a bold mix of theatre performances, music, street spectacles, visual art, dance and much more, inviting you to explore and experience unique arts events. St Fin Barre’s Cathedral will host the dazzling artwork Helios that faithfully recreates the surface of the sun. And seven towering red giraffes will take to the streets in a captivating operetta that will close the festival in style.
If you prefer an immersive music festival, head to TuneFest Dungarvan (20–22 June) in County Waterford to see top trad acts and lots of open-air performances in a joyous celebration of summer’s apex.
Kinsale Mead Co, County Cork
You can also have a go at making some typically Irish food and drink to add to the summer solstice experience. Drop in at Kinsale Mead Company and take a tour that shows how mead is made and why it was the drink of Celtic Ireland’s kings and chieftains. Or book a session at Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen in County Down and learn the traditional way to make soda and wheaten bread.