An Cheathrú Rua (or Carraroe) is situated on a penninsula between Casla Bay and Greatman's Bay, 40km west of Galway city. Féile an Dóilín's sea-based events take place on Greatman's Bay, or Cuan an Fhir Mhóir as it is known in Irish.

The area is renowned for its sailing and maritime heritage, and also for Trá an Dóilín, a coral strand which has achieved Blue Flag standards. The Irish language is the principle language spoken in the region, and it's well known for its singing and sean-nós singing. Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge, a division of NUI Galway, is located in An Cheathrú Rua, as well as two Irish-language summer colleges. The national Irish-language newspaper, Foinse, is also located in the village.

As well as a maritime history, the area also has a rich cultural history, particularily in song and dance.  The renowned singer, Tomás Mac Eoin, comes from An Cheathrú Rua, and it was for many years the base of artist, Charles Lamb.