Our integration trip began two days before the Polish-Irish Festival. Seven of us, along with children and a dog 🐾, set off in the late afternoon in a small bus to spend some time together near Dingle. The very first evening already gave us unforgettable experiences – during a night walk by the ocean, bats were flying all around us, creating a magical atmosphere.

A friend also joined us with his camper van. Although due to a damaged radiator hose his vehicle could not go further, he spent time with us and slept in his van parked in the yard. Thanks to mutual support, we managed to find a solution and continue the adventure together.

Mountain Hike in Glanteenassig Forest Park

The next day we set off on a trail in Glanteenassig Forest Park. Walking along wooden boardwalks around the lake, we admired breathtaking scenery. The Irish weather showed its true character – strong wind and rain alternating with sunshine made us feel like we were in the very heart of the Emerald Isle.

The most beautiful moment was when a rainbow appeared above the mountains – a symbolic highlight of the hike. The children and the dog added spontaneity and joy to the trip, giving the whole adventure a truly family-like atmosphere.

Polish-Irish Festival 2025

The culmination of our journey was attending the Polish-Irish Festival 2025 in Fairtree Village. Thanks to the initiative of Polonica Eire, the event featured Grzegorz Bałczyński a Polish Tatar, who presented traditional bows and spoke about the history of the Polish hussars and Lisowczycy in Europe, as well as the historical reenactment group Hlymrekr from Limerick. Our president, Artur Janka, also actively took part in the shows.

The Viking battle demonstrations – although moved under a roof due to the weather – were highly realistic and allowed participants to experience the atmosphere of medieval combat. Both the Vikings and Grzegorz Bałczyński – a Polish Tatar prepared exhibits that visitors could see up close, while also learning about history and ancient fighting techniques.

The festival was filled with artistic performances, concerts, and cultural stands. Visitors could find folk crafts and also enjoy traditional Polish food served by BumbleBee By The Sea – the main organizer of the event.

The event was officially opened by special guests – Artur Michalski, Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to Ireland, and Norma Foley, a minister in the Irish government. Despite the unpredictable weather, the atmosphere was joyful, and the many visitors created an unforgettable spirit throughout the day.

Community and Energy

This weekend was more than just attending a festival. It was a time when, as Polonica Eire, we could share culture, passion, and history, while also strengthening the bonds within our community. Shared experiences – from night walks by the ocean, to mountain hikes, and finally celebrating together at the Polish-Irish Festival – showed us once again the true strength of our organization.

It was a weekend full of adventure, integration, and culture – exactly what Polonica Eire stands for 💚.