Fáilte Ireland explores the potential of festivals bringing international visitors to Laois

Fáilte Ireland this week brought together festival organisers from across Laois to develop events which have the potential to attract more overseas visitors to the area.

Representatives from 11 Laois festivals, ranging from those which already stage established events as well as new and upcoming festivals, took part in a bespoke Ireland’s Ancient East workshop at The Midlands Park Hotel in Portlaoise.

The workshop focused on plans to create festivals which will stand out in the international marketplace and can drive increased visitors and revenue to Laois.

Head of Ireland’s Ancient East at Fáilte Ireland, Jenny De Saulles, said: “Laois already has some excellent and established festivals which stand out as great visitor experiences that bring the heritage of the local area to life and have significant growth potential.

“The key focus of Ireland’s Ancient East is to bring our heritage and culture to life.

“Festivals offer visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in local culture, one of the key reasons that overseas visitors come to Ireland.

“Our bespoke workshop has been developed to support organisers and festivals across the county on how to optimise their visitor experience.

“Also, how to target key international audiences effectively, as well as how to work together to cross-promote and drive increased visitor numbers and revenue.”

Attractions and festivals which took part in the workshop include: Abbeyleix Power of Words Festival; Durrow Scarecrow Festival; Thread Softly Through Ireland; Half Door International Music and Set Dance Festival; Old Fort Quarter Festival; Stradbally Steam Rally; The Bulfin Heritage Cycle; The Folly; The Gordon Bennett Irish Classic Car Run; Twin Trees Heywood Art and Culture Festival; and Voice of Migrants Culture Fusion.

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