Every year on June 16th, literary lovers across the world celebrate Bloomsday, a day dedicated to James Joyce’s iconic novel Ulysses and its unforgettable protagonist, Leopold Bloom. While Dublin may claim centre stage in Joyce’s epic, Donegal offers a unique and distinctly stylish way to celebrate the day—with its legendary Donegal Tweed.
Imagine tracing Joyce’s steps, or curling up with Ulysses, wrapped in the rich texture of handwoven tweed. Here in Donegal, tradition isn’t just celebrated—it’s worn.
🧵 A Stitch in Time: Donegal Tweed Makers to Explore
Whether you’re a literature enthusiast or simply seeking a stylish way to mark Bloomsday, Donegal’s famed tweed artisans provide the perfect blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and Irish identity:
- Magee 1866 – With over 150 years of history, Magee is synonymous with quality and innovation. Their Bloomsday-inspired menswear and tailoring options add sophistication to any celebration.
- Triona Design – Located in the heart of Donegal Town and Ardara, Triona brings tweed into the 21st century with fashion-forward styles that still honour traditional weaving techniques.
- Studio Donegal – Handweaving lives on here, with every item made in Kilcar on vintage looms. Expect richly coloured scarves, jackets, and throws—each a wearable work of art.
- McNutt of Donegal – An Irish, third generation, family owned business creating homewares and fashion accessories using the world's most luxurious wool and linen yarns since 1953.
- Molloy and Sons – Built on the solid foundations of a rich heritage spanning six generations, the Molloy family have been in the textile business since Edward Molloy began weaving in the 19th Century based in Ardara.
Weavers in the northwest have called for special protected EU status for Donegal Tweed to combat cheaper imitations from across the globe.They hope to avail of a change in EU policy which will allow them to seek the same protection for Donegal Tweed that is afforded to Champagne, Parma Ham and the Waterford Blaa.
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Triona Donegal Tweed Centre, Ardara, Co Donegal Source: Fáilte Ireland
🌸 Why Donegal for Bloomsday?
Donegal offers a quieter, more contemplative way to celebrate Bloomsday. Wander the wild coastline, explore charming towns like Ardara and Donegal Town, and step into boutiques and mills where history is literally woven into the fabric. Whether you’re dressed in full tweed or just adding a woven accessory, you’re taking part in an enduring Irish tradition.
This Bloomsday, celebrate not only Joyce’s words, but the stories carried in every thread of Donegal tweed.