O'Donovans in West Cork

Embark on an exhilarating journey of connection and inspiration at the inaugural Assembly of the O’Donovan Clan Cultural Association.

O’Donovans and Donovans worldwide are invited to participate in the Assembly from 5-7 September, 2025. 

This transformative event will gather a diverse international group with a broad range of skills and talent, to celebrate O’Donovan history and culture, and to shape the future direction of the Association.

The West Cork Hotel

Meeting at the West Cork Hotel, Assembly members will collaborate and celebrate together, to help build a robust and sustainable Clan organization.

Engage in dynamic discussions, educational sessions with expert speakers, and lively social events, against the backdrop of West Cork’s historical richness and scenic beauty.

Castle Donovan

Those of us with proud O'Donovan ancestry feel the lure of Ireland as our ancient homeland - the compelling attraction of the landscape and evocative monuments like Castle Donovan. 

Our Association's purpose is to honor the lives of our forebears and families, preserve O'Donovan historic sites and materials, and support and celebrate the bonds of O'Donovan kinship around the world. 

Fastnet Rock - photo by Daniel O'Driscoll

Join us for this groundbreaking Assembly in the land of our ancestors.
We meet in the spirit of friendship, to deepen our knowledge of our heritage, connect with other O’Donovans and friends, and create a stable base for the future of the O’Donovan Clan.

The bridge at Mizen Head Light Station

Tickets for the Assembly are limited.

A three-day All-Inclusive Pass is the best available package, at $249 USD.

  Also available now: 

     > 1- and 2-day passes        > Single-event tickets

 Tickets are non-refundable after 1 August, 2025, but can be transferred to another attendee.     

The 3-day All-inclusive Pass entitles you to:

Friday program:

• Private tour of the Michael Collins House, Clonakilty
• Meet & mingle at Clonakilty Park Cinema
• Screening of the acclaimed film "Rebel Wife" documenting the life of Mary Jane O'Donovan Rossa
• Q&A session with special guest, Williams Rossa Cole, filmmaker and great-grandson of Mary Jane
• Evening pub gathering (drinks on your own)

Saturday program:

• Association Annual General Meeting
• Presentations by experts on O'Donovan History and Genealogy
• Buffet luncheon
• Family History Workshop: From Past to Paper
• Coffee, tea and cake breaks
• Hurling clinic
• Walking through Skibbereen
• Saturday Vigil Mass, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Skibbereen
• Evening Traditional music seisun with O'Donovans & Friends at O'Donovan's Hotel, Clonakilty

Sunday program:

• Dialogue with local history experts 
• Roundtable sessions on genealogy, history, emigrant support and Clan governance
• Sunday Banquet Luncheon
• Visit to Castle Donovan; ceremony to commemorate the 2000 O'Donovan Millennial Gathering
• Evening Pub get-together

See a current draft schedule of all daily events on the website >>>

Not included:  flights or travel expenses, travel insurance (recommended), accommodation and food not listed above (see website for suggestions), local travel (taxi and van options will be available), parking fees.

Friday, 5 September: events take place in the town of Clonakilty. 

Saturday & Sunday, 6 & 7 September: based at the West Cork Hotel, Skibbereen. 

pre- and post-Assembly tours and activities will be recommended forthe week of 7-11 September.