I love the festival atmosphere in Ireland. There are so many exciting things to do during this time, along with Irish culture and history.
Ireland’s festivals are some of the most vibrant and exciting in the world. From music and art to food and tradition, there’s always something to celebrate here.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these festivals promise an unforgettable experience. I’ve compiled a list of 20 must-see festivals in Ireland. Get ready to mark your calendars!
1. St. Patrick’s Festival
Location: Dublin
Date: March 17th (weeklong events)
Highlights: A grand parade, street performances, concerts, and cultural showcases make this the ultimate Irish celebration.
Additional Info: The festival includes family friendly activities, nighttime illuminations, and storytelling sessions about Irish folklore.
2. Galway International Arts Festival
Location: Galway
Date: July
Highlights: World Class theatre, music, visual arts, and performances fill the streets and venues of Galway.
Additional Info: The festival also features interactive workshops, artist meet and greets, and popup exhibitions.
3. Electric Picnic
Location: Stradbally, Co. Laois
Date: Early September
Highlights: Ireland’s biggest music and arts festival featuring top international acts, comedy, and immersive experiences.
Additional Info: Festival Goers can enjoy boutique camping options, wellness areas, and secret stages featuring surprise acts.
4. Cork Jazz Festival
Location: Cork City
Date: October
Highlights: A haven for jazz lovers, featuring performances from world renowned artists in lively venues across the city.
Additional Info: Free street performances, late night gigs, and an annual jazz boat cruise are popular attractions.
5. Puck Fair
Location: Killorglin, Co. Kerry
Date: August 10th12th
Highlights: One of Ireland’s oldest festivals, featuring a crowned goat, parades, music, and street entertainment.
Additional Info: The fair includes a horse and cattle market, fireworks displays, and storytelling sessions about the festival’s origins.
6. Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival
Location: Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare
Date: September
Highlights: Europe’s largest matchmaking event, with music, dancing, and romance in the air.
Additional Info: Professional matchmakers, speed dating events, and traditional ceilí dances make this festival a unique experience.
7. Dublin Theatre Festival
Location: Dublin
Date: SeptemberOctober
Highlights: Showcasing the best Irish and international theatre performances.
Additional Info: The festival also hosts post show discussions, artist Q&A sessions, and theatre workshops for emerging talents.
8. The Rose of Tralee
Location: Tralee, Co. Kerry
Date: August
Highlights: A beauty and personality competition celebrating Irish heritage worldwide.
Additional Info: The festival includes a carnival, fireworks, street entertainment, and a fashion show featuring Irish designers.
9. Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann
Location: Varies annually
Date: August
Highlights: The world’s biggest traditional Irish music festival with sessions, competitions, and performances.
Additional Info: Visitors can attend music workshops, heritage tours, and storytelling nights highlighting Irish culture.
10. Bloomsday Festival
Location: Dublin
Date: June 16th
Highlights: A literary celebration of James Joyce’s Ulysses, with themed events, readings, and period dress.
Additional Info: Walking tours, dramatizations of Ulysses, and food tastings based on the novel’s references are part of the festivities.
11. Galway Oyster Festival
Location: Galway
Date: Late September
Highlights: Seafood tastings, oyster opening championships, and lively celebrations.
Additional Info: The festival also features a masquerade ball, live music events, and Guinnesspaired oyster tastings.
12. Dingle Food Festival
Location: Dingle, Co. Kerry
Date: October
Highlights: Food trails, cookery demos, and markets showcasing Ireland’s best produce.
Additional Info: The festival supports sustainable and organic food initiatives, with many events promoting eco friendly dining.
13. Belfast International Arts Festival
Location: Belfast
Date: October
Highlights: A major celebration of music, theatre, dance, and visual arts.
Additional Info: Workshops, film screenings, and public art installations make this a dynamic and inclusive festival.
14. Waterford Harvest Festival
Location: Waterford City
Date: September
Highlights: A feast of local food, markets, and farm to table experiences.
Additional Info: Cooking competitions, talks from renowned chefs, and farm tours highlight Ireland’s agricultural richness.
15. Cat Laughs Comedy Festival
Location: Kilkenny
Date: June
Highlights: Top comedians from Ireland and beyond bringing laughter to historic Kilkenny.
Additional Info: Outdoor comedy gigs, improv workshops, and pub comedy crawls make this festival a unique experience.
16. Wexford Opera Festival
Location: Wexford
Date: OctoberNovember
Highlights: International opera performances in a charming coastal town.
Additional Info: Exclusive behind the scenes tours, artist discussions, and themed dining experiences enrich the festival.
17. KnockanStockan Festival
Location: Blessington, Co. Wicklow
Date: July
Highlights: An indie music and arts festival with a unique, bohemian vibe.
Additional Info: Interactive art installations, yoga sessions, and workshops in sustainable living make this festival stand out.
18. Halloween at the Banks of the Foyle
Location: Derry/Londonderry
Date: October 31st
Highlights: One of Europe’s best Halloween celebrations with parades, fireworks, and spooky events.
Additional Info: Haunted house tours, ghost storytelling, and costume competitions are festival highlights.
19. TradFest
Location: Dublin
Date: January
Highlights: Traditional Irish music in historic venues across Temple Bar.
Additional Info: Instrument workshops, folk storytelling, and exclusive live performances enhance the experience.
20. New Year’s Festival Dublin
Location: Dublin Date: December 31st
Highlights: Fireworks, concerts, and a countdown to remember.
Additional Info: The festival includes a street party, illuminated night walks, and a family friendly New Year’s Eve celebration.
