Bord Fáilte has received over 150 applications for the first year of its €31.75 million Festival-Cultural Events Initiative programme.
The fund was approved in the December 2001 budget and will run for five years to festivals and cultural events throughout Ireland, particularly in the regions.
The applications received for 2002 encompass a wide range of themes including food (oysters, lobster, Irish coffee), music (traditional and world), arts, genealogy, sport and general culture.
The range of applications reflects the trend towards activity and attractions-based holidays in Ireland, according to Bord Fáilte.
Bord Fáilte will open its annual Travel Trade Workshop at the RDS in Dublin, entailing over 340 international buyers in 12,500 business appointments with Irish tourism operators.
Bord Fáilte acting chief executive Mr Niall Reddy said visitors are now demanding more than beautiful scenery and a warm welcome.
He said they are looking for things to do in terms of sporting events, tourist attractions, entertainment or in the range of special interest holidays Ireland has to offer, such as golf, equestrian, walking and cycling.
Funding of €880,000 has been allocated to the national St Patrick's festival. One new festival - Summerfest 2002, which will be held in Killarney from June 28th to July 7th - has received backing.