Gaelforce Great Swim Festivals
Open water swim festivals shaped by Ireland’s waterways
Three open water swim festival weekends in three unique Irish destinations. Built around swimming but shaped by the places, people and communities that host them.
Festival Weekends
More than a swim event
The Gaelforce Great Swim Festivals are set in some of Ireland’s most scenic water locations. Each festival gives swimmers, families, supporters and visitors a chance to enjoy the area over a full weekend.
With support from Fáilte Ireland, the events help encourage visitors to stay longer, explore locally and experience more of each destination.
Festival Locations
Three places. Three swim weekends.
The events include the Gaelforce Great River Festival in Lanesborough and Ballyleague, the Gaelforce Great Lake Swim Festival in Portumna and the Gaelforce Great Fjord Swim Festival in Killary.
Lanesborough and Ballyleague
Gaelforce Great River Swim Festival
The Gaelforce Great River Swim Festival brings people to the banks of the River Shannon. The weekend includes swimming, kayaking, market stalls, music, wellness activities, family entertainment and local community experiences.
Portumna
Gaelforce Great Lake Swim Festival
The Gaelforce Great Lake Swim Festival celebrates Lough Derg, surrounding a fresh open water swimming event, water activities, wellness sessions, music and family fun around the town harbour and lakeside spaces.
Leenane and Killary Fjord
DJ on the Fjord
The Gaelforce Great Fjord Swim brings swimmers to the dramatic setting of Killary Fjord. After the swim the atmosphere continues with food, music and a relaxed social gathering by the water.
Weekend Experience
What visitors can enjoy
This support helps expand each event beyond the swim itself. Alongside the open water events visitors can enjoy a wider festival weekend.
Open Water Swimming
Scenic swim events in rivers, lakes and fjord waters across Ireland.
Family Friendly Activities
Activities and entertainment for families, friends, supporters and local visitors.
Music and Food
Local food, live music and a relaxed festival atmosphere across the weekend.
Wellness Sessions
Water wellness activities and relaxing sessions as part of the wider festival programme.
Local Tours
A chance to explore the destination, meet local providers and enjoy the surrounding area.
Water-Based Experiences
Activities such as kayaking, boat trips and water experiences where available.
All Are Welcome
You do not have to race to be part of it
You do not have to be participating in the races to enjoy the festivals. Families, friends, supporters and local visitors are all part of what makes the weekend a truly memorable event.
Local Support
With thanks to the communities who bring each weekend to life
These festivals would not be possible without the support and welcome of the local communities in each area. Local businesses, community groups, volunteers, activity providers and residents all help create the atmosphere that makes each weekend special.
Gaelforce is very grateful to Fáilte Ireland and to the local communities who help make these events possible. Together they help turn each swim into a welcoming festival weekend that celebrates the water, the place and the people who bring it to life.
Gaelforce Great Swim Festivals
Come for the swim. Stay for the weekend.
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