So if part/all of your New Years’ Resolution is to find ‘true love’ then you just have to k ow about Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival in Lisdoonvarna, Ireland which has been around for more than 170 years. Some 11 years ago they added The Outing Festival, created by the new Queen of matchmaking Eddie McGuinness,   specifically for the LGBTQ+ community, and it has been a sensational success

This year’s Outing Festival is a Valentine’s Weekend   10th-12th February 2023  and it moves to a new location at The Inn at Dromoland Co.Clare, Ireland.

The Outing Festival is the World’s Only Music, Matchmaking & Queer Arts Festival and is a Not-For-Profit organization and is professional and volunteer-led, collective, working to promote the positive visibility of LGBTQ+ people and their community in the west of Ireland. There’s no restriction (other than being over 18 years of age) on this inclusive and entertaining twist on an old tradition. 

You are not alone at this matchmaking festival as everyone is there to enjoy themselves plus meet new people. “Your Not Only Gay in This Village”  Some of the key areas or events for meeting your new friend to love they have “Speed Dating” to “Ice Breakers” to “Blind Dates” to even sporting events that allow talking to someone new without feeling alone or different. They even have afternoon tea where you can sit and chat to board games you never know you might get someone to play along with you!

The Irish are one of the most friendliest and romantic nations and must be a much better bet than any online dating service you have tried so far

The Outing Festival
Valentine's Weekend February 2023
The Inn at Dromoland, Co.Clare Ireland, V95 EPF5

N.B. Since the fab video above starring The Queen of Ireland aka Panti Bliss, the dates and venue have changed