Attending a festival on the island of Ireland is one of the best ways to connect with the island’s culture, community and gorgeous landscape. Take your pick from the amazing festivals lined up for 2026
The Outing Festival 2024, LGBTQ+ Matchmaking, Arts and Music Festival, Dromoland, Co Clare
WINTER INTO SPRING: Culture, Creativity and Celtic Roots
January
TradFest — Dublin (21–25 January)
This vibrant celebration of Irish music and culture brings world‑class artists into Dublin’s most atmospheric historic venues and is a fabulous way to banish the January blues.
Out to Lunch Arts Festival— Belfast (9–31 January)
Part of the Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, the Out to Lunch Arts Festival offers lunchtime and evening shows featuring the best in comedy, theatre, literature and music, drawing artists from around the world.
February
The Outing — County Clare (13–15 February)
A unique and colourful LGBTQ+ music, matchmaking, cabaret, and comedy festival, this is a weekend like no other — joyful, inclusive, and full of personality.
NI Science Festival— (19 February –1 March)
Taking place in venues right across Northern Ireland, the festival presents over 300 events for curious minds of all ages making it one of the biggest and brightest science events in Europe.
March
St Patrick’s Festival— Dublin (14–17 March)
Ireland’s national celebration transforms the capital into a sea of green. City‑wide events showcase contemporary and traditional arts, culture and heritage while the flamboyant St Patrick’s Day Parade welcomes participants from around the world to celebrate their Irish roots.
Belfast Children’s Festival(5–14 March)Not just for the young but also for the young at heart, this 10-day festival includes circus, puppets, theatre, dance and visual arts presented in family-friendly formats.
Wander Wild, Festival 2024, Sunrise Swim, Killarney National Park, Co Kerry
SPRING INTO SUMMER: Music, Literature and the Great Outdoors
April
Wander Wild — Killarney (17–19 April)
Ireland’s great outdoors festival takes place in the stunning setting of Killarney National Park. It’s an opportunity to hike, bike, climb, swim, kayak, or indulge in relaxing wellness therapies in the heart of nature.
Slieve Bloom Bike Festival— Counties Offaly and Laois (24–26 April)
A two-day off-road cycling event in the spectacular Slieve Bloom Mountains, in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, this festival is an adventure for cyclists of all abilities.
Cork International Choral Festival— (29 April – 3 May)
Lovers of choral music should not miss the chance to see world-class choirs perform and compete in one of Europe’s most prestigious choral events.
City of Derry Jazz Festival — (30 April – 4 May)
The jazz and big band festival stages over 450 gigs over five days in Derry~Londonderry bringing a swinging vibe to the historic walled city that is known for its love of music and welcoming vibe. Expect big name gigs as well as energetic pop-up street performances.
May
May the Fourth Sci-Fi Film Festival— County Kerry (2–4 May)
Taking place on the dramatic Wild Atlantic Way, where some of the Star Wars movies were filmed, this festival is a celebration of the iconic franchise and a chance to visit the remarkable places, such as Skellig Island, that provided the otherworldly backdrop to the action.
North West 200 — Counties Antrim and Derry~Londonderry (4–9 May)Thrilling motorcycle road racing set against the backdrop of the spectacular Causeway Coast is a combination that attracts some 100,000 spectators every year. The world’s best road racers compete for glory while supporting events create a fun and family-friendly atmosphere.
NORTH WEST 200
Gaelforce Trilogy Swim Series— Counties Longford, Galway and Mayo (16 May, 11 July, 12 September)
The epic Gaelforce swim challenge starts in May with the river swim in the mighty Shannon. Parts two and three add a swim in Lough Derg and one in Killary Fjord.
Listowel Writers Week— County Kerry (27 May–1 June)
One for the bookworms, Listowel Writers Week is a gathering of writers and readers that celebrates all genres of the written word through panel discussions, moderated talks, poetry readings, interviews, cultural tours, walks and more.
Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival — County Donegal (28–31 May)
Keeping alive the music and genius of master rock guitarist Rory Gallagher, the festival presents four days of free gigs in his birthplace and welcomes over 10,000 passionate Gallagher fans annually.
Ireland Bikefest— County Kerry (29–31 May)
Get your motor running at Bikefest which this year celebrates its 20th year of bringing together avid bikers to ride some of the most picturesque routes on the island as well as enjoying top-class rock music gigs.
Ocean to City — County Cork (30 May)
A long-distance rowing race finishing in Cork Harbour that welcomes all types of boats and rowers, Ocean to City is famous for its friendly, inclusive vibe and is part of the Cork Harbour Festival (24 May – 2 June).
June
Bloomsday — Dublin (11–16 June)
The world-famous Bloomsday Festival celebrates James Joyce’s phenomenal novel Ulysses with a wide and eclectic programme of readings, performances, tours, talks and culinary events across Dublin city.
Cork Midsummer Festival— (14–21 June)
One of Ireland’s leading multidisciplinary arts festivals, Cork Midsummer Festival is a platform for exciting new artists and avant-garde performances and aims to engage the public in innovative and immersive events.
Donegal International Rally — (19–21 June)
A three-day, adrenaline pumping, tarmac rally championship, this is perfect for motorsports enthusiasts who can combine the excitement of the races with the chance to explore the spectacular Donegal landscape.
West Cork Chamber Music Festival— (26 June – 5 July)
Enjoy performances by some of the world’s finest chamber music soloists and ensembles at this renowned festival that takes place in the pretty seaside town of Bantry.
Cork on a Fork Festival 2023, Chef Orla McAndrew , Cork City
SUMMER INTO AUTUMN: Arts, Oceans, Mountains and Fabulous Food
July
Galway Film Fleadh — (7–12 July)
As a UNESCO City of Film, Galway is the perfect destination for movie buffs and even more so during its celebrated film festival. Over six days the city presents the boldest new films by filmmakers from around the world.
Earagail Arts Festival— County Donegal (11–25 July)
This bilingual (Irish and English language), multidisciplinary summer festival takes place along the stunning Wild Atlantic Way and features music, theatre, visual arts, film, literature, circus and carnival.
Galway International Arts Festival— (13–26 July)
One of the island’s standout festivals, Galway International Arts Festival presents a highly creative programme of world-class acts and cutting-edge performances that celebrate the power of the arts to change the world.
Belfast TradFest— (26 July – 2 August)
Celebrating Irish traditional music and music from the Ulster-Scots tradition, Belfast TradFest is an inclusive, welcoming and joyful week of world-class concerts, talks, lively sessions, céilís and Ireland’s fastest growing summer school of traditional music.
O’Carolan Harp Festival— County Roscommon (27 July – 3 August)
Named after Turlough O’Carolan, one of Ireland’s greatest traditional composers and harpists, the festival and summer school presents a rich blend of performances, workshops, and masterclasses led by world-renowned musicians.
Spraoi International Street Arts Festival — Waterford city (31 July – 2 August)
Ireland’s oldest city comes alive with colourful street performances that over three days fill the historic streets with fun-filled spectacle and a carnival atmosphere.
August
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann— Belfast (2–9 August)
The world’s largest festival of Irish music, song and dance will take place in Belfast this year and the UNESCO City of Music is promising big-name stage shows, lively sessions, street performances and all the craic that comes with the famous fleadh.
Kilkenny Arts Festival — (6–16 August)
The medieval city of Kilkenny attracts artists from across the globe to its festival which delights in presenting artistic adventures across theatre, dance, performance, music, digital arts and contemporary opera.
Dublin Horse Show— (5–9 August)
Ireland’s love of horses is on display at the prestigious Dublin Horse Show, which includes world-class international showjumping, best show horses and the best dressed competition for attendees.
Cork on a Fork Fest – (12–16 August)
County Cork is considered to be a culinary hotspot on the island, and you can get a taste of its fabulous food during this five-day festival that features food trails, cooking demonstrations, masterclasses and family fun.
Rose of Tralee – County Kerry (14–18 August)
The world-famous competition sees hopefuls from around the world competing to be crowned Rose of Tralee and become an ambassador for Ireland. The festival includes family carnivals, fashion show and live concerts as well as the entertaining selection event.
Féile Thrá Lí (Tralee Street Festival) — County Kerry (14–18 August)
Coinciding with the Rose of Tralee competition, the festival is five days of free events including parades, live music, theatre, wellness activities and heritage trails.
September
Boyne Valley Walking Festival — County Louth (12–20 September)
Organised by Boyne Valley Trails, this festival offers hikers the opportunity to join guided walks and discover the beauty, heritage and mythology of this landscape which is the location of some of Ireland’s most iconic ancient sites.
Saltwater Festival— Counties Sligo and Donegal (5–13 September)
Set on the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way, Saltwater celebrates Ireland’s vibrant surf culture with surfing, wave ski and kayak ski competitions and a lively programme of beach sports, local food experiences, film screenings, and a music trail.
Clifden Arts Festival— County Galway (17–27 September)
Ireland’s longest-running community arts festival brings world-class artists, writers, musicians, and performers to the heart of Connemara while remaining rooted in the region’s unique cultural identity and traditions.
Seven Sisters Skyline— County Donegal (19 September)
Not for the faint-hearted, the Seven Sisters Skyline is a marathon running event in the beautiful Derryveagh Mountains. The course runs over 55km with a 4,000m ascent and is the toughest mountain running event in Ireland.
Wicklow Eco Trail— (26 September)
Join thousands of runners from around the world taking part in the EcoTrail race from the picturesque seafront of Bray to the wild beauty of the Wicklow Mountains. A challenge that is also a chance to immerse yourself in spectacular scenery.
Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival — (25–27 September)
Described by The Sunday Times as “one of the 12 greatest shows on earth”, this festival is renowned for much more than its famous shucking championship. With seafood trails, foodie talks and tasting events, as well as a feast of music, and culture, it’s definitely one for the bucket list.
AUTUMN INTO WINTER: Theatre, Music, Dark Skies and Halloween
October
Dublin Theatre Festival— (24 September – 11 October)
A highlight of Dublin’s cultural calendar, Dublin Theatre Festival presents a programme of exceptional theatrical experiences showcasing the best of Irish productions as well as innovative international works.
Kilkenny Animated — (2–4 October)
This unique festival of visual storytelling is hosted by five-time Academy Award® nominated animation studio, Cartoon Saloon, and BAFTA award-winning Lighthouse Studios, both based in Kilkenny. It’s an amazing weekend of exhibitions, talks, performances, workshops and visual image experiences.
Wexford Festival Opera — (15–31 October)
Wexford Festival Opera 2024, The Critic, National Opera House, Co Wexford
Celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2026, this world-renowned festival should be on every opera afficionado’s list. Famous for staging forgotten opera gems, this year’s festival’s theme is The Best of: one for the head, one for the heart, one for fun.
Savour Kilkenny — (23–26 October)
A chance to taste the best of Irish produce at a festival that features unique dining experiences, cookery demonstrations, and a market brimming with excellent street food, artisan delicacies, and craft brewers and distillers.
Guinness Cork Jazz Festival— (24–26 October)
A stellar event on the international arts calendar, Guinness Cork Jazz attracts the best of Irish and international musicians and over 100,000 visitors. With performances in the city’s most prestigious venues as well as on the streets, it’s a weekend of pure jazz joy.
Púca Festival— County Meath (dates tbc)
One of the island’s foremost Halloween festivals, Púca is rooted in the myths and magic of the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. It’s four days of parades and pyrotechnics, spectacle and craft alongside performances by top musicians, comedians and storytellers.
Derry Halloween— (28–31 October)
Europe’s biggest Halloween party takes place in the historic walled city of Derry~Londonderry which is transformed into a world of spirits and banshees and filled with thousands of costumed revellers. Stunning light shows and a carnival parade are just some of the brilliant festival highlights.
Bram Stoker Festival— Dublin (dates tbc)
Fans of Dracula and those who embrace the dark side will not want to miss the four-day Bram Stoker Festival. Dublin becomes a theatre of the gothic with a parade filled with magical creatures, haunting concerts and thrilling theatrical and street entertainment.
Mayo Dark Sky Festival— (30 October – 1 November)
Ireland has some of the most pristine stargazing areas in the world including gold-tier-accredited Mayo Dark Sky Park where the Dark Sky Festival explores multiple themes through talks, walks, exhibitions, performances and family friendly events.
November
Allingham Arts Festival— County Donegal (4–8 November)
Established to honour the work of poet William Allingham, this festival now celebrates multiple art forms from creative writing to music, art, design and history,. Designed to be accessible to all, most of the events are free.
Westport Sea2Summit — County Mayo (7 November)
This is a chance to run or cycle through the dramatic landscape of County Mayo in a racing competition that offers challenges to suit all abilities. The festival closes with live music across multiple venues in picturesque Westport town.
