For over a decade, The Outing Festival has been redefining Ireland’s matchmaking traditions for the LGBTQ+ community, creating a global destination event that celebrates love and creativity.
The festival (14–16 February) is a fusion of music, comedy, dance, queer arts, and the best international and Irish queer performers, drag artists and DJs alongside guided matchmaking sessions and interactive activities designed to spark meaningful connections.
This year’s festival will be hosted by the Queen of Matchmaking and festival director, Eddie McGuinness, alongside co-hosts Paul Ryder and Victoria Secret. McGuinness says: “The Outing Festival is more than an event; it’s a cultural phenomenon. We’re thrilled to welcome guests from the USA, Canada and South America to experience this extraordinary celebration of queer joy, love, and creativity in the heart of Ireland. I have hundreds of relationships and friendships put together, plus a few marriages too.”
Headline acts include singer/songwriter Shobsy, drag king Phil T Gorgeous, dancing queen Regina George, singer Paul Middleton, DJ Ruth, and drag queens Elle Uminati, Grainne Kneez, Anita Hero, Éire Comme and Miss Bliss.
The heart of the festival is The Inn at Dromoland sitting in the grounds of the picturesque sixteenth-century Dromoland Castle, which enjoys panoramic views of the Clare Hills and Shannon Estuary. It’s the perfect base for festival goers who want to explore the region during or after the festival, or to take advantage of activities on offer at the castle, which include falconry sessions, hawk walks, clay shooting and archery.
It’s a short journey from Dromoland to the famous Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way, one of Ireland’s top attractions. These majestic cliffs are 214m (700 feet) at their highest point and range for 8km along the coast of County Clare. February is an ideal time to visit as there are fewer people and the early setting sun offers the chance to see them change colour as the light fades.
There are also lots of nearby walking routes, such as the Mid Clare Way, making it easy to get out into the pretty County Clare countryside.
Whether you’re searching for love, looking to celebrate Valentine’s with friends, or simply eager to experience a unique festival celebrating love and diversity, The Outing Festival 2025 is the perfect destination.
