Go Wild in Inishowen!

Currency

The currency in Ireland is the Euro. The currency in Northern Ireland is the British Pound.

Passport

We put this topmost.  Check your passport and ensure the expiration date is not within 3-6 months of the event.  Some countries take up to 6 months to renew.  Some airlines will not let you fly if the passport expiration date is too close to your travel dates. Update it now! This process can take time – do it while there’s not a crush!

ETIAS Europe and Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) United Kingdom

UNITED KINGDOM: the UK has launched th Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) – Everyone wishing to travel to the UK – except British and Irish citizens – effective 8 January 2025 will need permission to travel in advance of traveling there. ETAs are digitally linked to a traveler’s passport and ensure more robust security checks are carried out before people begin their journey to the UK. An ETA costs £10 and permits multiple journeys to the UK for stays of up to 6 months at a time over 2 years or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner. Check here for requirements and, if applicable, to apply.

EUROPE: ETIAS travel authorisation is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals travelling to any of these 30 European countries. It is not currently required. It is linked to a traveller’s passport and costs €7. It is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new ETIAS travel authorisation. It is unclear whether ETIAS will be required for Ireland in 2026. Be sure to check back for additional information.

Gathering Apparel

MacAulay apparel and tartan encouraged! Allow plenty of time to order your MacAulay apparel. 

  • Wednesday and Thursday days/nights casual
  • Friday and Saturday days casual
  • Friday evening formal attire – no jeans please (unless your luggage is lost!)
  • Saturday evening ceilidh– casual with tartan and shoes for dancing are encouraged
  • Protocol Note: Only a Chief, Chieftain and their spouses may wear a sash/plaid on their left shoulder. All other persons will wear a sash/plaid on their right shoulder.

Check out the Photo Gallery to see examples of apparel worn at past events.

Weather

According to Weather & Climate, in August, Donegal tends to experience pleasant temperatures and high rainfall. Throughout the daytime, temperatures often hover around 18°C. However, as the sun sets and evening approaches, there’s a noticeable cool-down. Temperatures gently drop to a more temperate 11°C. Day length in County Donegal in August is about 14 hours with sunrise around 6:30 am and sunset around 8:30 pm.

With the weather and event agenda in mind, here are some ideas on what to bring.

  • Layers and options are always advisable (swimwear for the amazing pool, shorts, capris, trousers/jeans, t-shirts, fleeces, jackets, etc.)
  • Just in case — rain gear, umbrellas, etc. are good ideas
  • Comfortable walking shoes