The Gathering

The All Ireland Permaculture Gathering is about bringing people and ideas together who share a common interest in sustainable and ethical methods to building a better world. 

First held in Co. Wicklow in 2011 between 200 & 300 people have attended the gathering each year since. It is a weekend camp to support the development of Permaculture in Ireland & Northern Ireland by providing an opportunity to network, celebrate and learn together.

It is not a passive event laid on by others, but rather an active participatory gathering which is co-created by a year team and camp attendees. People come and host talks and workshops, share skills and information and participate in this dynamic community event.

The Gathering – how does it work?

The Permaculture Gathering is a self-organising event over a weekend (Friday-Sunday)  It is self-financing, no drugs or alcohol are allowed on site, and it is set up as a very family friendly event.

Everyone gets to come together and:

  • Learn celebrate and create
  • Exchange skills and knowledge
  • Share time, food, experiences and stories
  • Exchange seeds and plants
  • Meet people with shared interests and passions
  • Be introduced to Permaculture
  • Network
  • Apply Permaculture principles
  • See what is possible!

Schedule
At the Gathering there is a welcoming meeting round the first morning (Saturday) where everybody sees each other and organizes the schedule for the coming days: people  present what they would like to do: there will be talks, workshops, demonstrations, discussions, meditations, kids activities, music circles, yoga, etc., whatever people have to offer. It is an active participatory gathering meaning that everybody can be involved in whatever they want to do. The proposed activities are then gathered on a big timetable sheet and a time and venue is designated. Furthermore everybody participates in the working of the gathering with different groups being formed to make sure the different areas work smoothly: compost toilet, kitchen, lights, firewood, welcome team, facilitation, etc. In former gatherings there was a goodbye meeting round on the Sunday to share experiences, make announcements, talk about the future and simply celebrate the lovely outcome of the gathering.

Camping
Camping at the event is allowed at the designated camping zones. The gathering is free from drugs, alcohol and pets making it a very easy going, family friendly event. It is important that children be under the care of a responsible adult throughout the event. Generally the gathering isn’t a loud event however we do state that there be no loud noise after 10pm as respect to others and the local community.

Energy and Waste
The use of electricity should be kept to an absolute minimum. The whole gathering intends not to leave any waste (produce no waste and if then bring it home with you; compost will be on site), recycle materials and resources and work under the permaculture principles: earth care, people care, fair share.

Food
Meals are provided for weekend ticket holders and are vegan, prepared from local organic ingredients where possible. People are also encouraged to bring some of their own produce to contribute. 

Tickets

A weekend pass costs £50 per adult, and includes camping, and all meals (breakfast Sat, Sun; Lunch Sat, Sun, Evening meal Sat).

A day pass costs £15 and includes entry to the gathering. Food is not included.

Children 16 and under – no cost.

You can purchase tickets online or reserve tickets and pay on arrival

The event

Anyone can give a talk at a gathering: each morning we organise the day, and you can offer or request a talk or demonstration. At a gathering everyone participates, helping to make the event a success.

There will be plenty of activities for children, and we work as a community to ensure the safety of children during the event.

This is a not for profit event, any surplus is put back into the next event, and we will discuss opportunities for additional ways to make good use of any further surplus funds generated.

The venue

Kinnego Bushcraft Centre is situated within the beautiful Lough Neagh Nature Reserve on the banks of the Lough, and provides a wonderful opportunity for the Gathering. We will have a number of small venues in yurts, tipis and the centre buildings, as well as ample sheltered camping space, outdoor cooking facilities and of course a garden that the team are creating for the event itself. The centre is situated a short distance from the M1 motorway and as such is easy to access.

Frequently asked questions

Are there any rules?

We have some basic rules, established over many years of running Gatherings:

  • No dogs please
  • No amplified music
  • Leave no trace – ensure all your belongings and rubbish are cleared and taken away after the event
  • If you see something that needs doing – do it. We are all participants
Do you offer any concessions?

The policy at the Gathering is that no one is turned away. Please contact us if you can’t afford to make a monetary contribution for a ticket and we’ll work something out.

Can I bring a camper van or caravan?

Yes there is ample free parking on site. If you want a serviced park up with water / electricity they are available from the Discovery Centre at additional cost.

Do I need to bring anything?

Yes! If you are staying for the weekend, bring a bowl, plate, cutlery and cup, plenty of warm clothing, and of course, a tent. We don’t have spares so don’t forget them.

Northern Gathering 2019