FAQs & INFO

What is Common Threads?

Common Threads is an immersive three-day voyage of music and art through the Burren. Over October 10–12, 2025, artists and audiences journey together across unique venues, against the stunning backdrop of The Burren. Each aspect blends music, art, and community, celebrating the beauty of the Burren while promoting local culture and sustainability.

Where is it?

The festival takes place across multiple venues in the Burren, North Clare. With Ballyvaughan, serving as the central anchoring point for the weekend.

How do tickets work?

There are multiple ways to experience Common Threads:

Individual Event Tickets
Wristbands/tickets can be purchased online or collected at the door (subject to availability).

  • Fri, Oct 10 — Martin Hayes (Sold Out)
    St. John the Baptist Church, Ballyvaughan
    18:30 – 20:00

  • Fri, Oct 10 — Friday Night (Secret Location, Ballyvaughan)
    Róis // Bantum // Graham Dolan
    20:00 – 00:30

  • Sat, Oct 11 — Burren College of Art
    Niamh Regan // Aindrias de Staic in conversation with John Lillis
    15:00 – 17:30

  • Sat, Oct 11 — O’Donohue’s, Fanore
    Lullahush (Live) // Morgana // Daithí
    18:30 – 22:00

  • Sat, Oct 11 — Official Afterparty (Secret Location, Ballyvaughan)
    Sally Cinnamon + Piqué
    23:00 – 01:00

    👉 Check what’s still available here.

Free Events
Open to all on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Sun, Oct 12 — Sunday Spinners (Hylands Burren Hotel, The Fountain Bar)
    16:00 – 20:00

Bus Voyage (Sold Out)
Full weekend access + Saturday’s six-venue bus tour. Info will be emailed directly to ticket holders.

Fanore Shuttle Bus (Sold Out)
Return bus to O’Donohue’s, Fanore.
👉 Check-in required: collect a dedicated shuttle wristband at the Festival Box Office (Main Street, Ballyvaughan) from 15:00 on Sat, Oct 11.

👉 Check what’s still available here.

When will I get the schedule?

Full timetables are sent by email and shared on socials.


👉 See the latest timetable here.

Where is the Event Box Office?

The Festival Box Office & Accreditation Desk is on Main Street, Ballyvaughan.

  • Fri, Oct 10: Opens at 16:00

  • Sat, Oct 11: Opens at 14:00

Bring your Eventbrite ticket (digital/print) and photo ID. Bus Voyage ticket holders also collect their accreditation packs here.

How do I get there?

  • By Car: Ballyvaughan is ~1 hr from Galway, 1 hr 15 from Shannon, 3 hrs from Dublin.

  • By Bus:

    • From Dublin: Citylink services run to Galway, with onward connections to Ballyvaughan.

    • From Limerick/Ennis: Bus Éireann Route 350 runs Ennis – Lahinch – Doolin – Ballyvaughan – Galway (several times daily).

    • From Galway: Route 350 also serves Ballyvaughan directly.

      Check buseireann.ie and citylink.ie for timetables.

Can I park?

Yes, parking is available:

  • Ballyvaughan village (near the pier, close to Monks)

  • O’Donohue’s Fanore - Only during event Sat 11th (18:30-22:00)

  • Burren College of Art - Only during event Sat 11th (15:00-17:30)


    Please do not park at Ballyvaughan Service Station (opposite Hylands Hotel).

Where can I stay?

Common Threads is a non-camping event Local accommodation fills quickly, so book early. Options include:

What food is available?

We work with local vendors to keep you fuelled on Sat 11th:

  • Burren College of Art – Wild Plates & Scáld Coffee

  • O’Donohue’s, Fanore – Julia’s Lobster Truck, Wildfire Pizza, Holy Crêpes

    Vendors accept card payments but it is always good to bring cash. There is an ATM located in Centra, Ballyvaughan.

Is there a sauna?

Yes, Sauna Suaimhneas on Ballyvaughan pier:

  • Sat, Oct 11: 07:00 – 15:30

  • Sun, Oct 12: 08:00 – 14:30

👉 Book your sauna session here.

Can I bring alcohol?

No. Bringing alcohol to events or onto shuttle buses is strictly prohibited to ensure safety and preserve the festival atmosphere.
ℹ️ The festival is 18+ and operates a Right of Admission Reserved (R.O.A.R.) policy.

Where can I follow updates?