Former professional performer and choreographer Michael Flatley and his wife Niamh, were honoured with the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) President’s Award 2025 at the IHF’s Annual Conference, held at the Gleneagle Hotel & INEC in Killarney, Co. Kerry last month.
The President’s Award is the highest accolade that the IHF can bestow on anyone and was presented in recognition of Mr. Flatley’s contribution to Irish tourism and culture.
Renowned for revolutionising Irish dance, his productions, Riverdance, Lord of the Dance, Feet of Flames, Celtic Tiger Live, and Michael Flatley’s Christmas Dance Spectacular have captivated over 60 million people worldwide.
Michael Magner, IHF President along with IHF CEO Paul Gallagher presented Flatley with a painting of 'The Point Depot' in Dublin by artist Peter Pearson.
"Michael Flatley has made an enormous contribution to Ireland, to Irish society, to enriching and creating world awareness of our culture and Irish tourism," said Michael Magner. "His legacy as a transformative figure in dance and entertainment remains unparalleled."
Previous recipients of the IHF President’s Award include Dr Martin Naughton, Dr Tom Kavanagh, Professor Mary McAleese, Paul Carty, Anna Mae McHugh, Donie Cassidy, JP McManus, Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh and Michael Noonan.
Further reading: Michael Flatley Speaks To Hospitality Ireland
