Brendan Vacations' Month-by-Month Ireland Guide

When is the best time to go to Ireland? From celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin, to cozying up to the winter months during the slow season, it’s always a great time to take a vacation to the Emerald Isle. No matter when you go, here’s a helpful month-by-month guide to the best things to do in Ireland all year-round brought to you by the experts in everything Ireland, our partners at Brendan Vacations.

January

Our Nation of Storytellers is well-known for our superstitions, and we believe that the first person to walk through our doors on January 1^st can bring good luck. So, let us welcome you in and show you all the fun traditions we have to ring in the New Year, Celtic style.

February

There’s no better way to enjoy a romantic getaway than by spending Valentine’s Day in the home of its namesake, St. Valentine, himself. Although the actual history of St. Valentine has many different variations, his unparalleled belief in love, empathy and passion are always the common thread.

March

Cue the bagpipes. You’re in for a celebration that is worthy enough to be at the top of anyone’s bucket list. Everyone should experience St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland at least once in their life; and after you dance to the beat of the music in the streets, feel your heart illuminate when the cities light up in green, or taste the authentic corned beef and cabbage here… we’re sure you’ll be back for more.

April

Easter in Ireland is filled with many traditions from the practical to the peculiar. Just like in the States, we have Ash Wednesday ceremonies and visits from the Easter Bunny, but we also have a fun ritual called The Herring’s Funeral where local butchers give a symbolic goodbye to all the fish we’ve been consuming during the days of lent.

May

The weather’s getting warmer, the days are getting longer, spring flowers are starting to bloom and adorable fluffy lambs are jumping around the rolling green fields. Sounds amazing, right? May is the perfect combination for perfect temperatures and lesser crowds right before the peak of summer.

June 

Planning a traditional June wedding? Why not invite your groomsmen and bride tribe to the destination wedding of a lifetime on the Emerald Isle. Then when everyone back home asks to see your wedding photos, you can amaze them with incredible pictures in front of ancient castles and majestic hillsides.

July 

Europe is such a hot spot in the summer; literally. Those that have traveled to Italy or Greece during the peak season will tell you just how high their temperatures climb. In Ireland, we have milder weather than many of the other popular destinations so getting around is still a breeze, even in July.

August 

Festivals and bonfires have been a pagan tradition in Ireland for centuries and continue to thrive; especially in August. This month marks the beginning of the harvest season and is celebrated with a tradition called Lughnasadh which is said to bring our people a bountiful year ahead.

September

Fewer crowds and better prices bring folks to the Emerald Isle this month. With kids back in school the local attractions are way quieter and have more availability. Plus, this is the time of year when the air turns a little crisper and the fires burn a little brighter.

October

Welcome to the land where Halloween began, except it looks a lot different in Ireland. Originally known as Samhain, it has many similarities as celebrations in the States, but dives deeper into the belief that this is the day spirits could roam the Earth. Bonfires ignite to ward off evil and turnips (not pumpkins) were carved out in order to carry a piece of the magic back; guiding the spirits home.

November

The Irish may not celebrate Thanksgiving, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take advantage of your holiday vacation days with a trip to the Celtic Isles. This year, replace your traditional turkey dinner for something new. Irish stew or minced pie, anyone?

December

Christmas is a magical time anywhere you go, but the fairytale feeling you find in Ireland makes spirits brighter than ever before. From wandering the holiday markets (mulled wine in hand), to strolling through neighborhoods lit up with lights in every window, to attending midnight mass with the locals; this is one holiday you’ll never forget.

When you're ready to plan your Ireland adventure with Brendan, reach out to our team of Travelink advisors who will help you put together an amazing, unforgettable itinerary!  Book during March to save 15%. 

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