The Gathering Ireland 2013, sometimes referred to as The Gathering in Ireland is a tourism-led initiative that aims to mobilise the Irish diaspora to return to Ireland during 2013 to be part of specially organised local gatherings and events during the year. It is a Government of Ireland supported initiative driven primarily by Fáilte Ireland, the National Tourism Development Authority, and Tourism Ireland, however the concept relies on the grassroots activity of private individuals, and non-governmental organisations. The Gathering is not a single event but rather an initiative that fosters and provides an umbrella framework for a plethora of activities throughout 2013, from family reunions and clan gatherings to sports fixtures. While the initiative is primarily directed at the Irish Diaspora, as well as those with a non-ancestral link to the country, the organisers have stated that the overall experience for the general tourist will be enhanced due to the significantly increased number of events planned throughout the year.
The Emerald Isle Classic was the first NCAA-sanctioned American college football game played on the European continent. The game was played at Lansdowne Road in Dublin, Ireland in the years 1988 and 1989. In 2012, the game will return to Aviva Stadium in Dublin as Navy faces off against Notre Dame. It also marks the largest ever contingent of traveling fans for a stand-alone sporting event outside the U.S., with over 33,000 making the trip to Ireland. The game and surrounding events are set to provide an economic benefit to Ireland of up to €100 million.