Planning a trip to Donegal, Ireland? Local fiddler Tara Connaghan shares where to hear real Irish music, see the Northern Lights and escape the tourist crowds.

Donegal is Ireland's wild northwest corner: fewer tourists, friendly locals and some of the best traditional music on the island. Paula chats with Tara Connaghan, a professional fiddle player, tour guide and podcaster from Glenties, about why serendipity is the best plan in Donegal, how to find an authentic Irish music session (and the etiquette visitors need to know), and where she'd take a friend for three days.

IN THIS EPISODE
• Why you drive through Northern Ireland to reach Donegal
• Best time to visit: September and May
• Northern Lights and rare moonbows in Ireland
• Why you need a car in Donegal
• Finding trad music sessions and session etiquette
• Irish dancing explained: sean-nos, step, ceili and set dancing
• Is Donegal safe for solo travellers?
• A 3-day itinerary: Arranmore Island, Sliabh Liag cliffs, Donegal Town
• The Irish whiskey revival, Donegal tweed and Hanna Hats (as worn in Peaky Blinders)
• Little Mamma's Gelato and the half-tub ice cream story

READ MORE ABOUT DONEGAL
Ultimate Guide to Donegal
Things to Do in Donegal Town (incl. Little Mamma's Gelato):
Things to Do in Letterkenny
Best Day Trips from Letterkenny

Connect with Tara.

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tarafiddle/
• Website: https://www.sessionetiquette.com
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SessionEtiquette

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