The annual celebration of all things sea – from the unique and rich environment to marine life and cultural heritage – takes place later this month with the start of the 41st annual Conamara Sea Week Festival in Letterfrack.

Running from October 18 to 27, this year’s programme is bursting with events and activities to suit all ages, with workshops, art, music, talks, walks and much more.

The festival also shines a light on climate action and biodiversity, highlighting the importance of local action in combatting global challenges.

Chairperson of Conamara Sea Week Dermot O’Donovan believes they have brought together ‘a truly diverse and inclusive programme, blending art, music, creativity and a hint of madness!’

“The support we receive from Galway County Council and local businesses is invaluable, meaning that many events are free. The committee really look forward to welcoming visitors to Connemara for this year’s festival,” he said.

An education programme forms a central element of the festival involving primary school children and students from Youthreach and Atlantic Technological University.

Artists, marine scientists and ecologists will inform and inspire school children to create unique art works for the Night Light’s Parade. Drumming by students from Youthreach and a dance performance by artist Linda Shirmer will add to the spectacle.

Other highlights for children and families include performances by Circus250, a workshop by award winning children’s author Ellen Ryan, visit by Clifden lifeboat, and a mini regatta.

A Climate and Biodiversity Seminar brings together researchers, artists and activists, highlighting actions being taken to address climate change and biodiversity loss.

Local archaeologist Michael Gibbons will give a talk and a guided walk, interpreting the local landscape and unearthing its hidden stories. Connemara National Park will offer a series of guided walks on biodiversity and foraging.

This year’s musical line-up includes Tommy Carew, the Kane Sisters, and Noriana Kennedy and friends. There will also be a re-launch of the Letterfrack Poetry Trail, with readings from poets Joan McBreen and Moya Connon.

For lovers of art, the small works art exhibition provides a platform for emerging artists to exhibit alongside some of Connemara’s most well-known and established artistic community.

Interface Inagh, renowned for its dynamic exploration of art and science, will present Bearing Witness, a powerful project exploring the environmental and cultural impact of offshore wind farms on Ireland’s coastal communities.

Artist Brigid Mulligan presents a new body of work that explores grief through process-based rituals and includes monumental artwork and experimental film.

Director Mohamed Sleiman Labat, a Sahrawi multidisciplinary artist, filmmaker and writer presents his film DESERT PHOSfate Sun.

Renvyle Cat and Dog Rescue will hold a fundraiser, while the annual Active Age Club gathering will take place in Rosleague Manor House Hotel with music, songs and stories.

A Gourmet Seafood Trail celebrates the best of local seafood, and musicians will lead guests to Letterfrack’s excellent food establishments.

Elsewhere, Sean-nós dancers Emma O’Sullivan and Caitríona Ní Cheannabháin will perform at a seafood dinner with chef Tony Conneely.

The full programme of events can be downloaded at www.connemaraseaweek.ie.

Pictured: Attendees at a previous Climate and Biodiversity Seminar at Conamara Sea Week.