West Cork town set to Host Star Wars Epic, Becoming Largest Cosplay Event in Ireland
A WEST Cork village is gearing up to become the center of the galaxy this weekend with an exciting Star Wars festival that locals are hoping will be a major attraction on the tourism calendar. With up to 5,000 attendees expected to flock to Dunmanway over the next two days, the event promises a spectacular lineup of memorabilia exhibits, cosplay, Star Wars lectures, and a celebration of everything science fiction. Fans from all over Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales, the US, and even Malaysia will be traveling to West Cork to participate in what is anticipated to be one of the largest cosplay events ever held in Ireland.
What Can Attendees Expect at the ‘Feel the Force’ Festival?
The ‘Feel the Force’ festival, taking place on June 1-2, will feature a theme of ‘All Tribes Welcome’ and will include organized street activities, cosplayers showcasing their best Star Wars outfits, and local shops adorned with Star Wars regalia. The event, originating from a small exhibition last year as part of the Dunmanway Arts Festival, has grown exponentially thanks to the overwhelming interest and support from the community. Nuri ‘Newry’ Bakry, the festival’s organizer and a renowned costume designer and cosplayer, has curated an extensive collection of Star Wars memorabilia spanning all nine episodes of the iconic space saga.
Impact of Star Wars Filming Locations on Irish Tourism
Interest in Star Wars has surged in Ireland, particularly since the filming of parts of Star Wars: Episodes VII and VIII on location in the country. Skellig Michael, Brow Head, and other picturesque spots in Kerry, Cork, and Donegal have served as significant backdrops for scenes in the blockbuster franchise, attracting fans from around the world. The local tourism industry has experienced a substantial boost as a result of the films, with the regions featured in the movies enjoying increased visitor numbers and international recognition. The ‘Feel the Force’ festival in Dunmanway is poised to capitalize on this Star Wars fever and aims to establish itself as a must-visit event for fans and tourists alike.