The 2026 Donegal Tourism Connect event will take place on 4th March in Jacksons Hotel, Ballybofey and will be hosted by Donegal County Council in association with Fáilte Ireland.
This event is a key event for any tourism business in Donegal to attend and Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council Cllr. Paul Canning believes that “this event should be on the calendar of all tourism businesses across Donegal as it is a unique opportunity for businesses to connect with each other and explore how to develop authentic Donegal experiences for visitors while also boosting sales through better cross collaboration”.
He is encouraging businesses to come prepared with business cards and notebooks as there will be a lot of value to be gained on March 4th.
The keynote speaker on the day will be renowned tourism thought leader, author and destination expert Doug Lansky. Doug has advised destinations around the world on how to innovate, attract visitors and build sustainable success and is bringing his insights to Donegal.
Keynote speaker Doug Lansky
Speaking about the upcoming event, Wild Atlantic Way Manager with Fáilte Ireland, Joan Crawford, said: “We are very much looking forward to welcoming tourism businesses from across Donegal to another exceptional gathering this coming March. Our aim is to foster meaningful opportunities for networking and collaboration among businesses operating within the county’s vibrant tourism sector. We strongly encourage those who have not previously participated to consider expressing their interest in attending, as this event represents a valuable occasion for both newcomers and returning participants to connect and share ideas that can help drive growth and innovation within our local tourism industry. We look forward to seeing a wide representation from the sector and to witnessing the fruitful exchanges that will help shape the future of tourism in the region.”
Last year's panel discussion with host Richard Curran.
MC for the day will be Donegal’s own Andrea Gilligan, best known as the host of Lunchtime Live on Newstalk and for her regular appearances on Ireland AM. She will guide attendees through a day of insights, connections and fresh opportunities.
Andrea Gilligan from Newstalk will MC the event
A number of tourism related exhibitors and agencies will also be on hand in the venue on the day.
Chief Executive of Donegal County Council and Chair of Donegal Tourism CLG John G McLaughlin added ‘this is the largest annual event of its kind in Donegal and attendees will have an opportunity to gain learnings and insights from Doug Lansky who will undoubtedly bring plenty of inspiration from his experience across the globe as a tourism consultant followed by a speed networking event where attendees can avail of one on one meetings with their peers.”
Admission is free but pre-registration is essential. If you have not already received an email from Fáilte Ireland or Donegal County Council, you may express your interest
HERE.