Clare County Council’s Tourism Department is inviting people across the county to rediscover what is on their doorstep as ‘Be a Tourist in Your Own County Clare’ returns for its fourth year on Saturday and Sunday, April 18 and 19, 2026.
The initiative encourages people to experience County Clare, plan a day out, follow their curiosity, explore places they may not have visited before and support local businesses.
This year’s programme features a wide range of offers and experiences across the county, including up to 50% off admission at participating attractions, free entry at selected locations, and a broad mix of heritage, nature, family, leisure, cultural, and visitor experiences.
Visitors can go behind the scenes at a chocolate factory, cruise across Lough Derg or beneath the Cliffs of Moher, meet owls and alpacas, wander through historic sites, climb a lighthouse, explore caves and walled gardens, enjoy Burren walks, watch skilled sheepdogs in action, go birdwatching at dawn, and more.
This year’s event holds extra significance as the Aillwee Burren Experience is celebrating 50 years since it first opened to the public in the summer of 1976. To mark the occasion, the iconic site is inviting locals to delve deep into the heart of the Burren with special guided cave tours and access to their Birds of Prey Centre.
Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Councillor Paul Murphy, said, “This weekend offers the perfect opportunity for people to experience the rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and unique activities that make County Clare a standout destination. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the offers and enjoy the best of County Clare.”
Acting Senior Executive Officer for Tourism Festivals and Events, Clare County Council Theresa Hughes Lannon said, “This weekend is all about showcasing the attractions, activities, accommodations and dining experiences as well as stunning scenery, beaches and golf courses here in County Clare. I commend the participating attractions and events for providing generous discounts on admissions for the weekend.”
Sean Lally, Chair of the Clare Tourism Advisory Forum, added, “It is an increasingly competitive international tourism market, therefore growing and promoting our tourism offering to the domestic audience is vitally important, which is why I fully support the continuation and expansion of the ‘Be a Tourist in Your Own County Clare’ campaign.”
Each participating attraction or provider has set its own offer and dates. Most offers apply on Saturday April 18, Sunday April 19, or both, with a small number extending to Friday April 17 or Monday April 20 by exception.
Full details, including how to book and how to avail of each offer, are available here.
Visitors are encouraged to check individual websites in advance, as booking arrangements, availability and access requirements vary.