€345,000 in festival funding for Mayo

A MAJOR investment in Mayo festivals under Fáilte Ireland’s Strategic Festival Tourism Portfolio has been welcomed by Deputy Keira Keogh.

The programme provides guaranteed funding for 38 festivals nationwide over the next three years, and Mayo will receive €345,000, supporting four key events that draw visitors, strengthen local businesses, and extend the tourism season across the county:

Saltwater Festival - €150,000

Gaelforce Trilogy Swim Series - €90,000

Sea to Summit - €60,000

Mayo Dark Skies Festival - €45,000

Welcoming the allocations, Deputy Keogh said: “This is a fantastic boost for Mayo. Our festivals are run by passionate local businesses, organisations and volunteers who put their heart and soul into showcasing what our county has to offer. This funding gives them room to grow, plan ahead and continue delivering brilliant festivals.

“Sea to Summit is one of the biggest economic drivers for Westport every single year. It brings in huge visitor numbers at a time when the tourism season is winding down, and local businesses really feel the benefit. This investment recognises the enormous value Sea to Summit brings to the town.”

Deputy Keogh recently opened and attended the Mayo Dark Skies Festival and is thrilled they have been included in the funding announcement.

She said: “Next year marks the 10th anniversary of the Mayo Dark Skies Festival, which has become a unique attraction for Mayo. It draws families, astronomers, and nature lovers from neighbouring towns, from all over the country, and a growing number of international star gazers from further afield to our rural community. It’s wonderful to see it supported as it enters such an important milestone year.”

She added: “This funding is a strong endorsement of Mayo’s tourism offering. It supports jobs, boosts local businesses and puts our festivals on a stable footing for the years ahead. I’m proud to see Mayo so well represented in this national programme.”