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20th Jul 2020

The one that got away? Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival cancelled this year

Sarah Finnan

Classed as Europe’s biggest singles festival, it has all bases covered with music, dancing and plenty of craic. However, it’s a visit to Ireland’s most famous matchmaker Willie Daly that’s usually top of peoples lists.

Drawing tens of thousands of people each year, the annual Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival is a big hit with both locals and tourists in search of love. Due to take place this September, organisers have made the decision to cancel this summer’s event in light of current circumstances.

Over 160 years old, the festival is a highlight on the county’s events calendar but with Covid-19 still at the fore in people’s minds, organisers were left with little choice but to cancel. Speaking to local radio station Clare FM, a spokesperson said that though the decision is regrettable, their primary responsibility is to protect the health and safety of everyone involved.

 

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Would you? Is this the way forward for lisdoonvarna? #lisdoonvarna #dating #offlinedating #ireland #love #romance

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According to organisers, social distancing would be impossible to implement given that intimate dancing is one of the standout attractions for visitors.

Summing up what many singletons may be thinking upon hearing the news, one disappointed Twitter user wrote that “another year of loneliness and despair awaits”. Not a glass half full kind of person I take it.

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