Donegal is set to be prominently featured in an upcoming episode titled 'To the Waters and the Wild' on the PBS travel show 'Ireland with Michael', which will air on February 6, 2025. The show, which launched its fifth season on January 11, 2025, reaches an impressive 97% of U.S. households, making it a significant platform for promoting Irish destinations [c41dc9a0].
In this episode, host Michael Londry explores various locations in Donegal, including Killybegs and Glencolmcille. He engages in local cultural activities, such as learning to make a St. Bridget’s Cross and taking a surfing lesson at Strandhill. Additionally, Londry visits Molloy & Sons Weaving in Ardara, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship [c41dc9a0].
The episode not only highlights Donegal's stunning natural beauty but also aims to boost the local tourism economy by attracting American visitors. The soundtrack for the episode features The Byrne Brothers, adding to the cultural ambiance of the show [c41dc9a0].
In related news, Hollywood star Russell Crowe, along with Ronan Keating and Ryan Tubridy, has invested in The Muff Liquor Company, a gin company based in Muff, County Donegal. The company recently opened a new premises that includes a distillery, retail shop, offices, and a gin experience area. This investment is expected to create job opportunities and support the growth of the local economy [498198ac].
The Muff Liquor Company plans to expand into the U.S. market, launching 30,000 cases of their gin on November 1st. This move aligns with the increasing global demand for Irish gin, further enhancing the reputation of Ireland's craft distilleries [498198ac].
In addition to these developments, Aidan Quinn expressed his love for filming in Ireland, particularly in Donegal, where he filmed two feature films. His positive experiences highlight the area's appeal as a filming location, which complements the ongoing promotion of Donegal through travel shows [43c919a0].
Wicklow, known as 'Europe's Hollywood', continues to attract filmmakers, with its picturesque landscapes featured in numerous films and TV series. The county's film industry has a rich history, supported by tax breaks for filmmakers and the presence of renowned studios [dea6637d].
Local events in Donegal include the Annacurra Parish Field Day on June 30th, the launch of a knitting exhibition by the Carnew Community Care's Home First Knitting Group on July 7th, and the 75th Carnew & District Agricultural Show on July 20th. These events reflect the vibrant community spirit and cultural activities in the region [48a9c7f6].