Change things up from your usual New Year’s Eve routine and head to the festival taking place on Achill Island.
Taking place over December 31 and January 1, Smithwick’s 10° West is set to be a New Year’s event the likes of which you won’t find anywhere else in Ireland.
Located 53°N 10°W on Achill Island, the celebration embraces the true Achill Island way of life, where few things matter more than creating memories with great friends in one of the most picturesque and remote settings in the country — it’s also where you’ll find the last sunset of the year in Ireland.
How do I get there?
Achill is located on the west coast of County Mayo, Ireland, and is accessible by the Michael Davitt Bridge, built in 2008 on the site of the original bridge which was constructed in 1887.
Rail services can take you to the nearby towns of Westport or Castlebar, where daily buses can then bring you across to Achill Island in approximately an hour.
Where can I stay?
Being Ireland’s largest and most picturesque island, there’s no shortage of accommodation to choose from — be it a hotel, B & B or campsite — so you’ll find somewhere to lay your weary head after enjoying the festivities.
We’ve even made our own list of the top places to stay on the island — but you’ll have to book ’em fast to avoid disappointment.
What is there to do?
Whether you’re learning about the island’s long history at The Achill Experience, taking in the fortress of the Pirate Queen Granuaille at Kildavnet Tower or exploring the eerie and mysterious Deserted Village, you’ll find that there’s a surprising amount to do and see on the island.
And that’s before we even get to the festival…
What’s happening during the day at Smithwick’s 10° West?
You can de-stress with some nature yoga sessions, take a scenic cycle on the greenway between the Atlantic and the Slievemore Mountains or hike over the rolling green hills of Achill Island to discover all its hidden treasures.
What’s happening during the evening at Smithwick’s 10° West?
The main celebration will take place in the Keel tent where you’ll be able to enjoy live performances from the likes of Daithí, Stomptown Brass and Lumo & Talos. The festival will also spill over in the Achill’s favourite locals, where you’ll find acoustic and pop-up music sessions in full swing — as well as chilled pints of Smithwick’s, of course.
Daithí in action
Where do I sign up?!
Smithwick’s 10° West is sold out, but have no fear as we still have a few tickets up for grabs! Stay tuned to our Facebook and Instagram channels on December 13 and 20 to be in with a chance of winning tickets to experience Ireland’s last sunset of 2017!
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