The Limerick Wild Geese Festival has announced that Mayor John Moran will attend this year’s Wild Geese Festival Gala Dinner at the Hunt Museum, alongside Mr Xavier D’Argoeuves, Cultural Attaché with the Embassy of France in Ireland, and other distinguished guests.
Taking place on Saturday, 11 July, the Gala Dinner will bring together community leaders, historians, cultural organisations, and visitors from Ireland and abroad to celebrate the enduring friendship between Ireland and France and the legacy of the Wild Geese.
Guests will enjoy fine dining, cultural exchange, and entertainment in the Hunt Museum, with dinner in the Captain’s Room. The evening will also feature a special performance by the Limerick Opera Festival, showcasing leading regional talent.
The attendance of Mayor John Moran reflects strong civic support for the festival and Limerick’s international heritage. The presence of Xavier d'Argoeuves - Counsellor for Cooperation and Cultural Action highlights the ongoing importance of the Ireland–France relationship, rooted in the story of the Wild Geese—Irish soldiers who left after the Treaty of Limerick in 1691 and served across Europe, particularly in France.
Festival organisers, including Lorna Hodkinson and Michelle Daly Hayes say the Gala Dinner offers a unique opportunity to celebrate Limerick’s heritage while strengthening cultural ties between both nations.
“The Wild Geese story reflects courage, resilience, and enduring friendship between Ireland and France. We are honoured to welcome Mayor John Moran and Mr Xavier D’Argoeuves and delighted to feature the Limerick Opera Festival. Together, they will help create a memorable evening celebrating our shared history and cultural connections.”
The Gala Dinner will include:
• Welcome reception at the Hunt Museum
• Gourmet dinner in the Captain’s Room
• Attendance by Mayor John Moran and Mr Xavier D’Argoeuves
• Special performance by the Limerick Opera Festival
• Insights into the history and legacy of the Wild Geese
• Celebration of the Ireland–France relationship
Event Details
Wild Geese Festival Gala Dinner
📍 The Hunt Museum, Limerick
📅 Saturday, 11 July 2026
🕖 Reception from 6.00pm
🎟 Tickets are now available; advance booking is essential.
The Gala Dinner is part of the wider Wild Geese Festival programme, which includes lectures, commemorations, cultural events, and educational activities exploring a key chapter in Irish and European history.
The festival programme and tickets to all events is available here.
Tickets include: Champagne Reception and 5 course dinner prepared by Chef George Casey.
About the Wild Geese Festival
Organised by the Alliance Française de Limerick with support from the Embassy of France in Ireland and Limerick City and County Council, the festival celebrates Ireland–France links through cultural, educational, and commemorative events. The Alliance Francaise and the festival itself is a non profit organisation based in Limerick since 1944.
Secure your place by booking on eventbrite or contacting limerickwild@gmail.com Early booking is advised due to limited availability. For updates, visit the website or follow the festival on social media.
