Five things to see and do in West Cork this May bank holiday weekend

The May bank holiday weekend is upon us, and West Cork has provided a jam packed schedule of events to keep everyone occupied over the next few days.

We have six fantastic events taking place across the weekend.

This weekend's events include Ballydehob Jazz Festival, The South West Rowing Schools Regatta, a fundraising 5k walk, HamsandwicH at Connolly's, short story readings and a lighthouse open day.

Ballydehob Jazz Festival - Friday, May 1st to Monday, May 4th

The world-renowned Ballydehob Jazz Festival kicks off this Friday.

Festivalgoers can expect circus performances, theatre and dance spilling out into the streets.

The full jam-packed program of events can be viewed here.

South West Rowing Schools Regatta - Friday, May 1st

The South West Rowing Schools Regatta is an ideal gateway for young people to discover a new sport.

Hosted by Rosscarbery Rowing Club this year, the popular event, sponsored by The Southern Star, will take place on Friday, May 1st, at the Lagoon in Rosscarbery, with the first race starting at 6.30pm.

The 2025 edition held at Kilkeran Lake, the home of Galley Flash Rowing Club, attracted over 30 schools, and participation is expected to be strong again.

HamSandwicH at Connolly's of Leap - Saturday May 2nd

HamsandwicH bring their special acoustic tour to Connollys of Leap this Saturday, May 2nd, presenting a beautifully stripped-back reimagining of songs from across their acclaimed back catalogue.

The trio — Niamh Farrell, Podge McNamee, and Darcy — return to the road following a hugely successful performance at Dublin’s Vicar Street last October, alongside a critically praised headline acoustic show at the Nollaig na mBan Festival in January.

Doors open at 7.30pm.

Tickets are €27.50 and can be purchased here.

5k Fundraising Walk and Coffee Morning - Sunday May 3rd

A walk and coffee morning to support Munster Lost and Found Pet Helpline will take place this Sunday in Gaggin.

Registration starts at 10.45am, and the coffee morning begins at 11.30am.

Donations can be made through the link here.

Come along for a great morning, meet fellow animal lovers, and help support a fantastic cause that helps reunite lost pets with their families and re-home furry friends to new families

Short Stories from the West Cork Islands - Sunday May 3rd

The Museum of Birds and Beasts have completed a book of short stories from the West Cork Islands.

During 2024 and 2025, stories were collected from West Cork islanders, along with former residents of the now uninhabited Middle Calf Island and Horse Island.

An official reading of the book will take place this Sunday at the Sherkin Island Community Hall at 2.30pm.

This event is free and no booking is required.

Galley Head Lighthouse Open Day - Sunday May 3rd

Galley Head Lighthouse's annual open day will take place this Sunday, May 3rd.

A shuttle bus will be in operation throughout the day between the lighthouse and the car park. The lighthouse is around a 15 to 20 minute walk from the car park.

The grounds of the lighthouse will be open from 12pm to 5pm and entry to the grounds is free for all.

Entry to the lighthouse tower is €8 per person (or €15 for two). Entry to the tower is restricted to those over the age of 10 for safety reasons.

Attendant Lightkeeper Gerald Butler will deliver his talks at 1pm and 3pm in the Gas House. These talks are highly recommended for anyone interested in lighthouse history.

Tea, coffee and baking will be available for purchase near the Gas House.