News

After more than a decade of breaking barriers and a few hearts too, The Outing Queer Arts Collective & Winter Pride Festival is set to transform the town of Ennis this Valentine’s weekend (13th – 15th February 2026). Moving to its new “Bigger, Brighter, Bolder” home at Treacy’s West County Hotel, Ennis, from its start in Lisdoonvarna 14 years ago, this year’s festival carries an extra layer of prestige following the historic news that The Outing and Limerick Pride have officially secured the bid to host EuroPride 2028.

The Outing stands as the world’s only LGBTQ+ matchmaking festival rooted in the centuries-old Irish art of matchmaking. By weaving ancient heritage with contemporary queer arts, the pride festival has matured into a global destination. The recent EuroPride success further cements the Mid-West of Ireland as a premier international location for Pride, inclusion, and cultural celebration.

A New Chapter in Ennis: Scaling a Global Vision

Following 14 years of grassroots success, the move to Ennis represents a strategic scaling of the festival’s influence. “Ennis is a town with a huge heart and a rich musical heritage,” says Eddie McGuinness, Festival Director & Queen of Matchmaking. “Moving to Treacy’s West County Hotel allows us to create a more integrated hub. With the EuroPride bid secured, we are no longer just a local festival; we are a beacon for the international community. This is your Pride Festival—we are keeping the fun of matchmaking alive because, honestly, who needs apps when you can make real connections in person?”

The 2026 Programme: A Fusion of Pop and Tradition

Main Stage Spectacles:

•  International pop duo The Cheeky Girls  lead the Friday night celebrations, featuring a debut DJ set from Sexy Tadhg.

The Royal Treatment:

•  The weekend is hosted by the “Queen of Matchmaking” alongside drag legends
• Victoria Secret and Paul Ryder, featuring a genre-bending performance from Absolute Britney.

Matchmaking & Modern Romance:

•  Eddie McGuinness will be on-site to facilitate introductions and host the legendary
• Blind Date show—a viral sensation known for its wit and warmth.

Cultural Immersion:

•  Saturday’s Queer Craft Fair provides a platform for LGBTQ+ artisans, paired with the Queer
•  Word spoken-word event and workshops exploring the intersection of queer identity and rural Irish life.

Beyond the Glitter: A Mission of Visibility

The Outing remains a vital non-profit organisation and a defiant pride movement. It provides a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals—particularly those from rural backgrounds—to find their “tribe” in an environment that celebrates Irish identity and queer joy. The successful EuroPride bid with Limerick Pride is a testament to the power of regional collaboration and the growing importance of the “Pink Pound” in the West of Ireland.

Full weekend passes, day tickets, and inclusive accommodation packages are available at www.theouting.ie.

ENDS

Contact: Eddie McGuinness, Festival Director Email: press@theouting.ie

Website: www.theouting.ie

Socials: @TheOutingFestival