The Ultimate Irish Music Experience & Pub Crawl
Dates offered: This is a two-day experience, Saturday-Sunday, July 18-19
(You will need to secure your own accommodations in Limerick; the campus apartments are available beginning on July 17.)
Cost: €720
Minimum to proceed: 15
Maximum: 28
Ceol, caint, agus craic! (Music, talk, and fun!) Two full days ‘on tour’ with leading Irish musicians and friends — Shane from Socks in the Frying Pan — to explore the west of Ireland and its unique pubs and local music. This event is usually reserved for a select few, offered once a year to dedicated fans globally. But we are able to offer it to UWP alumni at cost price, thanks to the connection of an alum and the memorable jam session with the Survival band at EAM Ennis 2019!
Hosted by Shane from “Socks in the Frying Pan“:
- Born and raised in Ennis, County Clare – the heart of traditional Irish music.
- Started music early: piano as a child, tin whistle at six, accordion at eight.
- Emerged as a prominent figure and global icon in Irish music.
- Awarded “Best Accordion Player 2015” by the Irish Music Association.
- Known for energetic style, ferocious technique, quick wit, and friendly charm.
- Highly sought after for recording and performance.
- Holds a master’s in Irish Traditional Music from the University of Limerick.
What to Expect:
- An abundance of craic (fun) and once-in-a-lifetime moments.
- Explore Ireland’s captivating west coast, stunning landscapes, lively music, and private visits to pubs only locals know.
- Learn the true meaning of busking and discover what a ‘rambling house’ is.
- Whiskey tasting.
- Learn the art of Irish coffee making.
- Impromptu musician sessions in all manner of unique locations.
- Lunch both days.
Planned Itinerary:
This is to give an overview of the possible day’s itinerary. It is subject to change based on the weather or other unforeseen circumstances. An updated itinerary will be provided closer to the date.
Day 1: Limerick to The Burren and back
9:30: Depart from Limerick.
10:45: Visit the ancient Pol na mBron portal tomb.
11:30: Enjoy a guided tour of Ailwee Cave (discovered by Shane’s great-grandfather!).
13:00: Explore Burren Distillers: learn about traditional Irish whiskey distilling and enjoy a tasting.
14:30: Lunch at Monk’s Bar in Ballyvaughan.
16:30: Short walk to O’Loughlans pub for their award-winning Irish coffee and a traditional music session.
19:00: Depart for Limerick.
Day 2: Ennis, Lahinch & Ennistymon
9:30: Depart for Ennis.
10:15: Walking pub crawl/guided tour of Ennis: Sample whiskeys, pints, and enjoy storytelling.
12:30: Depart for Lahinch.
13:00: Stroll along the Atlantic in Lahinch, then lunch at Kenny’s Bar.
15:00: Head to Ennistymon; stop at Eugene’s pub for a music session.
18:00: Dinner and music session at Brogan’s in Ennis.
20:15: Depart for Limerick.
What to Bring:
Participants are advised to have comfortable walking shoes and to wear light layers! We suggest a sweater, rain jacket, jeans or pants and small backpack. Temperatures may vary with rain a possibility.
Disclaimer:
All parties participating in the tour and activities do so at the participant’s own sole risk. UWPIAA organisers of the tour are released from any claims, actions, damages, liabilities, losses, costs and expenses by participants in the tour, and all persons accept full responsibility for themselves during the tour.

