The Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival has been cancelled, in light of the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic.
The world-renowned festival traditionally attracts tens of thousands of people to North Clare over the course of the month of September
The iconic Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking festival is over 160 years old and traditionally attracts more than 80,000 people from Ireland and overseas, who flock to North Clare to enjoy socialising and to find love.
But this year, organisers have taken the decision to cancel the event, after the Government deferred Phase Four of the easing of restrictions until August 10th.
In a statement to Clare FM, they say the decision is regrettable, but that their primary responsibility is to protect the health and safety of the local community as well as staff, artists, suppliers and visitors.
Managing Director of the White Hotel Group, Marcus White says social distancing would be impossible to implement at a festival like Lisdoonvarna, where pubs and clubs are crowded, and intimate dancing is one of the attractions for visitors.
He’s described the lack of social events this year as devastating, and fears the mental health repercussions will be huge, especially in rural Ireland.
Organisers are remaining positive for next year though and have booked the same acts that were due to perform this year for the 2021 festival.
And you can hear more on this on Clare FM’s Morning focus this Monday morning from 9am.
