An Cheathrú Rua (or Carraroe) is situated on a peninsula 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 status. The Irish language is the principle language spoken in the region, and it is well known for its music 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, particularly 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.