The annual Clarecastle Regatta was a resounding success on Saturday, July 1st with the village welcoming over 3,000 visitors for the festivities.
The event, which has history stretching back nearly 100 years, was revitalised in 2010 and has been a popular annual event. It’s billed as a family fun day with something on offer for every member of the family, and from the crowds on the day and the smiles captured in photos and video across social media, the regatta clearly lived up to its promise.
From vintage cars to a full lineup of live music, food and craft stalls, children’s races, a dog show, power boat and currach rides, kayaking, Zorbs, mobile farm/petting zoo, hanging tough, best dressed lady, bonny baby, and best tart competition, there was non-stop activity on the quay and on the water.
The regatta is organised annually by an all-volunteer event committee and also generously supported by businesses, members of the community, and other groups in Clarecastle as well as in Ennis. According to Donal Carey, chair of the organising committee: “We all look forward to the regatta. While there is a lot of effort that goes into it, seeing so many smiles and hearing what a great time that folks of all ages have on the day makes it all worthwhile. We’re already thinking about 2024!”
