Is the 60th Birthday Dinner Black Tie?

Absolutely. There will be zero enforcement, and a surfer dude or Flinstone outfit would be allowed, but tuxes and dresses are encouraged. Footwear can be as comfy as you like; Andy Swierawski led the way with the tux and Berkenstocks 10 years ago.

What are the sleeping quarters?

The Castle has 9 bedrooms and most are accounted for with immediate family. The Castle also has a Garden Apartment and a series of converted buildings with rooms and bunks. Yes, bunk beds! It will be great fun. We also have 4 glamping tents in the garden, each with up to 5 single beds, carpeting, lamps, and tables.

Where should we fly into, and how will we get to the Castle?

There are direct flights from Chicago to either Shannon or Dublin. Shannon Airport is about 45 minutes closer but there are more flights to Dublin and they are cheaper. Flight prices as of May 2, 2026 are around $915 with bags. You can rent a car to get around, but we will also be arranging for vans or buses as needed to drive folks who are not getting a car from the airport to the Castle.

What other events will be planned?

We are in the process of planning some organized things to do while in the greatest, friendliest place on Earth. They might include:

• Thursday July 30 - Welcome Dinner at Castle - Hog Roast

• Friday July 31 - Matt’s Still 59 Golf Scramble - Mitchelstown Golf Club

• Saturday Aug. 1 - Matt’s 60th 5K

• Sunday Aug. 2 - Jameson Distillery Tour - 3:40 p.m.

• Monday Aug. 3 - Old Head Golf 4:00 p.m. tee times

• Tuesday Aug. 4 - Farewell Dinner at Castle

• Blarney Castle visit

• Day trip to Killarney, possibly for the horse races

• Day trip to Kinsale, a gorgeous oceanside city

• Fishing in the Awbeg Rive for those who indulge

• Daily visits to Matt’s 60th Pub in the Castle