The Bealtaine Living Earth Festival celebrates biodiversity and natural heritage in the South East of Ireland. Named after the ancient Celtic festival of Bealtaine, which marked the beginning of summer and the renewal of life, the Festival takes place every May.

Established in 2005 by CALMAST, the Festival is a unique collaboration of over 40 groups (public bodies, visitor centres, NGOs) and interested individuals passionate about preserving the natural surroundings in the South-East of Ireland.

Join us in May, a perfect start to a summer of exploring and discovering the wonders of our planet!

The Bealtaine Living Earth Festival also showcases the connection between sustainability, biodiversity and natural resources. It incorporates four very important international days:

• 18th May is Fascination with Plants Day,

• 20th May is European Maritime Day,

• 20th May is World Bee Day,

• 22nd May is UN Day for Biological Diversity.

To celebrate these events, we offer a wide range of activities suitable for all ages, children or adults, from school pupils to families, both online and in person.

Every year, we highlight a specific aspect of biodiversity. The theme for 2024 is focused on the challenges we face in the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. During the Festival, we will share conservation success stories from the South East that inspire hope for a future with natural areas and flourishing wildlife.