Renowned Irish American choreographer and performer, Michael Flatley, has been awarded the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) President’s Award 2025. The award was presented at a Gala Dinner ceremony at the IHF’s Annual Conference this week in the Gleneagle Hotel & INEC in Killarney, Co. Kerry. The President’s Award is the highest accolade that the IHF can bestow on anyone and was presented in recognition of Mr. Flatley’s immense contribution to Irish culture and tourism.

Acclaimed 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 and grossed more than $1 billion.

During the ceremony, which was attended by over 200 guests, IHF President Michael Magner presented him with a painting of ‘The Point Depot’ in Dublin by artist Peter Pearson. Mr Magner said: “Michael Flatley has made an enormous contribution to Ireland and to Irish society, enriching and creating world awareness of our culture and Irish tourism. His legacy as a transformative figure in dance and entertainment remains unparalleled having brought Irish dance and culture into the modern era and to the world stage for a global audience.”

Addressing guests, Michael Flatey thanked the Irish Hotels Federation for the award. Commenting on the importance of promoting Ireland and creating memorable experiences, he said: “For the last 30 years I've travelled the world promoting Ireland and Irish culture everywhere from Tokyo to Texas from Mexico to Moscow from Boston to Beijing – we have sold out arenas everywhere. It's hugely important to promote Ireland and Irish culture. I think all of us in this room are in the memories business. We create memories. That's what we do, and you can never forget that.”

Michael Flatley has received many accolades, including the Ireland-US Council's award for outstanding achievement in the performing arts, the Freedom of the City of Cork, honorary degrees and wide recognition for his humanitarian work. His steadfast support for various causes, including cancer research has no doubt helped save many lives.

Visit Irish Hotels Federation’s website