2023 AGM and GATHERING SCHEDULE

Date:                8-10 September 2023
Location:          The Harbor Hotel, The Docks, Galway, Ireland
The hotel was holding a limited number of rooms at a reduced rate.  Be sure to mention you are coming for the Nolan Gathering to see if any rooms remain available.

GETTING THERE
International flights arrive at Dublin and Shannon Airports. Rental cars available at both airports.
There are direct buses from Dublin Airport to Galway operated by citylink.
There are trains from Heuston Station, Dublin to Ceant Station, Galway operated by Irish Rail.

NOTE: In an effort to reduce automobile traffic and parking hassles we will be walking part of the day. So bring appropriate shoes and clothing.

8 September    Friday
18:00-20:00     Check-in Meet and Greet at the Harbor Hotel
20:30               Traditional music session at The Crane Bar [2 Sea Road, Galway. Cash Bar]

9 September    Saturday
10:00               A wreath laying at Páirc Uí Nualláin / Nolan Park. In honor of Patsy Nolan, who passed away in January 2023.  Mr. Nolan was a strong advocate of Irish sports at the pitch in the Ballyloughane/Renmore neighborhood.  Invited guests are Mr. Nolan’s family, friends and local dignitaries as well as the several Nolan families who still live in the neighborhood.

11:00               A visit to Galway’s New Cemetery and the grave of Sebastian Nolan, perhaps the wealthiest merchant in Galway at the turn of the 20th Century, descendant of the Nolan’s of Ballinderry,  and founder of the Galway Golf Club.  [Note: We’ll visit Ballinderry Sunday, September 10th.]

12:00               Presentations by local historians and discussion at the Galway Mechanics Institute in collaboration with County Councilor Donagh Killilea, the County Council Tourism and Heritage Office, local experts and University of Galway Faculty. There is one flight of stairs to reach the Meeting Hall. Topics: History of Galway; Nolans in County Galway; the Loughboy, Ballinrobe and Ballinderry Nolans; the Nolan/Skerrett Coat of Arms; and the tradesmen, fishermen and farmers of County Galway.

A brown bag lunch will be available for purchase at the Mechanics and the cash bar will be open.

13:30               The popular walking tour of Galway City led by Brian Nolan will visit several areas of interest. The tour is easy-paced and takes 90 minutes approx. [Brian requests a tour guide gratuity]

16:00-17:00     Annual General Meeting at the Harbor Hotel Conference Room

19:00               Cocktails at the Harbor Hotel [Cash Bar]
19:30               Dinner  [ preliminary cost 40 euro per person.  Menu choices to follow. ]
Opening prayer
Presentation of the Clans of Ireland Ceremonial Sword
Installation of new Officers
Nolan Clan 2023 Awards of Appreciation
Musical entertainment during desert
21:30               Gathering adjourns to the bar [Cash bar]10 September Sunday
10:30               Gather at Harbor Hotel for drive to Tuam.
11:30               Mass at Corofin church.
11:45               Light lunch for purchase per person in Tuam followed by a tour of the town by the Old Tuam Society.
14:00               A visit to Ballinderry Castle
14:30               Visit to the site of the Battle of Knockdoe (19 August 1504)
14:45               Return to the Harbor Hotel and farewell to all until 2025 AGM and Gathering.  Location to be announced at a later date.OTHER SIGHTS OF INTEREST – THESE ARE SELF-GUIDED – Advance reservations recommended.

Oranmore Castle is an 800 year old national monument located on one of the historical inlets of Galway Bay. Located on the picturesque shores of Oranmore, the venue is a short 9k from Galway’s city centre connected by regular bus & taxi services.

Built in 1520 by the O’Hynes clan on the picturesque shores of Galway Bay, this restored 16th century tower house sits on a rocky outcrop. From April to October you can enjoy fabulous entertainment and locally sourced food at the renowned castle banquet. Book a reservation in advance.

NOTE:
This Program is preliminary and subject to change.
We request Nolan Clan membership registration and annual dues payment.
All meals are payable at the door.  Menu selections will be published in advance.
All bars are Cash Bars.
Entry fees to any location are payable to the venue or provider.
We will attempt to accommodate special needs if possible.
The Nolan Clan will not liable for any emergencies or accidents.