*Trump International Golf Links & Hotel, Doonbeg || Credit: Steve Carr Golf
THE Irish Open and Walker Cup are expected to provide a major boost for tourism, business and community development in Clare as the county prepares to host two major golf events in September.
The Amgen Irish Open will take place at Trump International Golf Links & Hotel in Doonbeg from September 10 to 13, with many of the world’s leading professional golfers set to compete.
The previous weekend, Lahinch Golf Club will host the 51st Walker Cup on September 5 and 6, when Great Britain & Ireland and the United States of America will go head-to-head.
The Irish Open was last held in Clare at Lahinch in 2019, attracting more than 100,000 visitors to the region and generating significant economic, social and media impact.
Clare County Council said the two events will again provide an opportunity to showcase the county’s coastal landscape, golf facilities and hospitality to an international audience.
The council is working with local communities and organisers on preparations for the tournaments, including infrastructure, event logistics and visitor services.
In Doonbeg, the local authority has been working with Doonbeg Community Development Ltd and An Garda Síochána on preparations for the Irish Open and the Doonbeg Fáilte Fest.
The festival will run from Friday, September 11 to Sunday, September 13 and will feature music, family entertainment and a large screen showing the golf. Parking areas will also be available in the village.
Clare County Council has also carried out improvement works in the area, including work at Lakeview Park in partnership with Doonbeg Tidy Towns, along with investment in the local road network.
Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Joe Killeen, said, “The return of the Irish Open to Co Clare and the staging of the prestigious Walker Cup in Lahinch, present a wonderful opportunity to showcase the county’s stunning scenery, world-class golf facilities and renowned hospitality to audiences both at home and abroad.
“I have no doubt that the 2026 Irish Open and Walker Cup competitions will prove memorable occasions for players, spectators, and the local communities alike at stunning locations like Doonbeg and Lahinch.”
Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Gordon Daly, said, “The staging of the 2026 Irish Open in Doonbeg and Walker Cup in Lahinch is a testament to the strength of our local partnerships in Co Clare and the appeal of our county’s natural and cultural assets.
“These major sporting events will deliver a significant boost to the local economy, supporting businesses, tourism providers and local communities. Just as importantly, they will foster strong community involvement, with local organisations and volunteers playing a key role in creating a memorable visitor experience.”
The council said the events are expected to generate substantial visitor numbers and increased media coverage, while supporting a longer-term legacy for tourism, sport and communities across Clare.
