The Outing, the world’s only queer matchmaking and arts festival, is set to return for its Valentine’s Weekend 2025 edition. Hosted by Queen of Matchmaking Eddie McGuiness alongside ringmaster of love Paul Ryder and the energetic Victoria Secret, the organisers have paired with GCN to give away two weekend tickets to The Outing Festival.
Running from February 14 to 16, the event will provide a diverse programme featuring games, live music, comedy, céilí bands, drag extravaganzas, workshops and much more. The programme also includes an impressive array of talent from artists such as performer, broadcaster, and host Paul Ryder, Dublin-based singer and songwriter Shosby, and Irish Rock Angel DYLATRIX, among many others.
They are also offering a unique Virgin Pool Party and some more traditional games such as the egg-and-spoon race in heels, rounders, or tug of war. And, of course, it wouldn’t be a Valentine’s Weekend event without many, many blind dates!
Ver esta publicación en Instagram
The Outing Festival began in 2012 as a complement to the well-established Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, which has been celebrated for over 170 years. Over time, The Outing has grown and collaborated with many entities like partnering with the St. Patrick’s Parade to highlight the LGBTQ+ creative community, as well as participating in various Pride events across Ireland. In 2020, it transitioned into a not-for-profit organisation, with a board consisting of queer alternative artists, professionals, and volunteers.
After spending six years in the ‘village of love’ Lisdoonvarna, the festival moved to the grounds of the Inn at Dromoland, Co. Clare. Located within the picturesque grounds of the Dromoland Castle Estate, the venue is known for its luxurious accommodation and beautiful, wooded countryside setting.
Tickets for The Outing Festival’s 2025 Valentine’s Weekend are now available on the official website, with prices varying depending on the package chosen. But if you are feeling lucky and want a chance to win two full weekend tickets worth €500, simply answer the question below:
How many years did The Outing Festival spend in Lisdoonvarna before moving to The Inn at Dromoland?
The competition closes on Friday, February 7, 2025. Winners will be contacted directly and shared on social media.
By submitting this form, you give GCN consent to process your personal information for the purposes of conducting this competition. More information on how we protect your privacy can be found here.
© 2025 GCN (Gay Community News). All rights reserved.
Support GCN
GCN is a free, vital resource for Ireland’s LGBTQ+ community since 1988.
GCN is a trading name of National LGBT Federation CLG, a registered charity - Charity Number: 20034580.
GCN relies on the generous support of the community and allies to sustain the crucial work that we do. Producing GCN is costly, and, in an industry which has been hugely impacted by rising costs, we need your support to help sustain and grow this vital resource.
Supporting GCN for as little as €1.99 per month will help us continue our work as Ireland’s free, independent LGBTQ+ media.
comments. Please sign in to comment.