The Burren Winterage Weekend in County Clare returns later this month with a packed programme celebrating one of Ireland’s oldest and most ecologically significant farming traditions.

Organised by the Burrenbeo Trust and supported by ACRES Burren Aran and the FBD Trust, the festival honours the age-old practice of winter grazing, where cattle are moved to the Burren uplands to feed on nutrient-rich grasses during the colder months.

This year’s events will be centred on a scenic farm in Bouleevin, Boston, Tubber, Co Clare, managed by Burren farmers Frank, Mary and Frank McCormack Jnr. The farm will host the much-anticipated Cattle Drive on both Saturday and Sunday, allowing visitors to choose which day to join the procession of livestock across the limestone landscape.

Beyond the cattle drives, the weekend offers a diverse mix of activities including guided farm walks, Burren pine woodland planting, storytelling sessions, a community céilí and practical discussions on sustainable agriculture. A new book titled “The Hare’s Corner – Making Space for Nature” will be launched during the festival, and the Farming for Nature Ambassador awards will also be presented.

One of the more poignant events is a workshop exploring the emotional and ecological impact of ash tree loss in the Burren, a region where the species has long held cultural and environmental significance.

The Burren Ecotourism Network will once again host the Burren Food Fayre on Sunday 26 October, showcasing local produce and culinary talent. All events are listed on burrenwinterage.com, where tickets can be booked. Admission is free for under-18s and no booking is required for them.