The 2014 Punchestown Festival was today shortlisted for the Best Festival/Event Experience in the Irish Tourism Industry Awards 2015.
Organised by the Irish Tourist Industry Conference, ITIC’s industry members, Failte Ireland and Tourism Ireland the biennial awards showcase the country’s most successful and innovative tourism products, services and experiences. The awards give recognition to and promotes organisations that have made significant contributions to developing, marketing, selling and delivering improved visitor experiences in Ireland and to increasing the number of visitors from overseas.
Last year’s Punchestown Festival saw record breaking crowds of over 106,000 people and at least 21% of this number travelled from overseas. Research by NUI Maynooth shows that the five day festival contributes €62 million to the economy. The nature of the event and attendance leads to big business for local hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions and associated visitor facilities.
Other events shortlisted for the final of the same category include The Croke Park Classic 2014, Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann Sligo, Rose of Tralee Festival and St. Patricks Festival.
Commenting on the announcement Punchestown General Manager Dick O’Sullivan said “We are delighted to be shortlisted among such prolific events and very much look forward to the award ceremony. The overseas market is an integral part of our business and we work hard to deliver on the promise that visitors will have a ball at Punchestown!”.
The winners will be presented with their award by Mr. Pascal Donohoe T.D., Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport at a ceremony in Dublin on 24th April just four days before the 2015 Punchestown Festival gets underway.
For further information on the Punchestown Festival please visit www.punchestown.com