51 of the top best festivals in Ireland throughout the year

Ireland, both North and South, is a land steeped in tradition, culture, story telling, music and history. Traditional Irish festivals are a reflection of the Irish love for music, storytelling, food, and community. From ancient pagan rituals to contemporary arts and music festivals, Ireland offers a diverse array of events that attract tourists from all corners of the globe. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the most celebrated festivals across the island of Ireland, both in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

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Irish Storyteller Festivals

In Ireland, a storyteller is traditionally called a “seanchaí” (pronounced *shan-a-key*). The word comes from the Irish language, where “sean” means old, and “chaí” is related to the verb “to tell.” So, a seanchaí is someone who tells old stories, and is a keeper of history, folklore, and cultural memories.

The seanchaí played a vital role in Irish society, especially before the widespread availability of written literature. Their main duties were to preserve and transmit the rich oral tradition of myths, legends, historical tales, and genealogies. They were considered keepers of knowledge, often associated with the filí (poets) or bards, who held high status in Gaelic culture.

Today, the term seanchaí is often used to refer to anyone who tells stories in a traditional manner, celebrating Ireland’s deeply rooted oral storytelling culture.

Ireland is home to several storytelling festivals, reflecting the country’s deep-rooted tradition of oral storytelling, folklore, and mythology.  

Storytelling of Irish Myths and Legends: Hear the stories of legendary Irish folk, myths, history and more on this storytelling adventure.

Cape Clear International Storytelling Festival – County Cork, first weekend of September

The Cape Clear International Storytelling Festival is one of the most renowned storytelling events in Ireland and Europe. Held annually on Cape Clear Island, off the coast of West Cork, this festival celebrates the ancient art of oral storytelling and brings together storytellers from Ireland and around the world.

Listowel International Storytelling Festival  – County Kerry late September

Another significant event is the Listowel International Storytelling Festival, held in Listowel, County Kerry. Known as a town with a rich literary heritage, Listowel is home to several festivals celebrating literature and storytelling.

Sneem International Storytelling & Folklore Festival – County Kerry early November

The Sneem International Storytelling & Folklore Festival is another charming festival that takes place in the picturesque village of Sneem, on the Ring of Kerry. It brings together a blend of storytelling, music, and folklore, focusing on Ireland’s rich oral traditions.

Yarn Storytelling Festival – County Dublin mid to late October

The Yarn Storytelling Festival in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, just outside Dublin, is a celebration of storytelling for all ages. It brings together traditional and contemporary storytellers from Ireland and abroad.

Pagan Festivals in Ireland

Ireland has a rich pagan heritage, and several festivals across the country celebrate ancient Celtic traditions. These festivals often correspond to key dates in the ancient Celtic calendar, particularly the four main seasonal festivals: Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh, and Samhain. Many modern pagan or neo-pagan communities in Ireland continue to celebrate these festivals, and they often blend traditional customs with new age spiritual practices.

Here’s an overview of some key pagan-inspired festivals and their corresponding times of year:

Imbolc (February 1st)

Imbolc is an ancient festival marking the beginning of spring, traditionally held on February 1st, which is also St. Brigid’s Day. It’s associated with the goddess Brigid, the Celtic goddess of fertility, healing, and poetry. The festival celebrates the return of light and the awakening of the land after winter.Celebrated across Ireland, though some key gatherings take place in Kildare, the heartland of the Brigid tradition.

Beltane (April 30th – May 1st)

Beltane marks the beginning of summer and is traditionally celebrated on April 30th or May 1st. It’s a festival of fire, fertility, and the blossoming of life, when ancient Celts would light bonfires to honor the sun and ensure a bountiful harvest.Celebrations take place across Ireland, but one notable event is the Hill of Uisneach Fire Festival in County Westmeath.

Lughnasadh (August 1st)

Lughnasadh is the festival of the harvest and is celebrated on August 1st. Named after the god Lugh, it was originally a time for fairs, games, and feasting to honor the first fruits of the season. It marks the midpoint between the summer solstice and the autumn equinox.

Lughnasadh festivals are held throughout Ireland, but one notable location is Teltown, County Meath, which is steeped in Lughnasadh tradition.

Samhain (October 31st – November 1st)

Samhain is perhaps the most famous of the Celtic festivals, celebrated on October 31st and November 1st. It marks the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter. Samhain is the Celtic New Year, a time when the veil between the worlds of the living and the dead is believed to be at its thinnest.

Puca Festival (October 31^st) – County Meath and Louth

The Púca Festival in County Meath and County Louth is one of the major Samhain celebrations in modern Ireland. The Púca Festival is a vibrant and enchanting celebration held annually in County Meath, Ireland, particularly in the towns of Trim and Athboy.

This festival takes place over the October Bank Holiday weekend, coinciding with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marks the transition from summer to winter and is believed to be a time when the veil between the living and the spirit world is thinnest.

The Púca Festival is inspired by the mythical creature known as the Púca, a shape-shifting spirit from Irish folklore that is known to bring both good and mischief.

Derry Halloween (October 31st) – Derry/Londonderry

Recognized as one of the best Halloween celebrations in the world, the Derry Halloween festival transforms the city into a spooky wonderland with haunted houses, parades, fireworks, and street performances.

Winter Solstice (December 21st)

The Winter Solstice, on December 21st, marks the shortest day and longest night of the year, and it was a significant time in the Celtic calendar. The solstice is closely associated with the ancient site of Newgrange, a 5,000-year-old passage tomb in County Meath. On this day, the rising sun illuminates the tomb’s inner chamber, creating a spectacular display.

Visitors gather at Newgrange in the hope of witnessing the incredible solstice sunrise event. Although only a small number of people can enter the chamber (by lottery), the event is live-streamed for everyone to experience. Other gatherings around the solstice are held at ancient sites like Loughcrew and Carrowkeel.

Spring Equinox (March 20th-23rd)

The Spring Equinox celebrates the balance of day and night, light and dark, as the Earth shifts from winter into spring. It’s seen as a time of renewal and planting, associated with fertility and rebirth.

While not as widely celebrated as other festivals, gatherings often take place at sacred sites such as Loughcrew in County Meath.

Summer Solstice (June 21st)

The Summer Solstice, or Midsummer, celebrates the longest day of the year and the height of summer. Traditionally, bonfires were lit on hilltops across Ireland to honor the sun and ensure a good harvest.

 The Hill of Tara, Lough Gur, and Newgrange are popular places for solstice celebrations.

Puck Fair (August) – Killorglin, County Kerry

One of Ireland’s oldest and most unique festivals, Puck Fair dates back over 400 years. It celebrates the crowning of a wild goat as “King Puck” in a tradition that is thought to pre-date Christianity. 

Music Festivals Across Ireland

Ireland, often called the land of saints and scholars, could just as easily be known as the land of music. With its rich musical heritage, Ireland boasts a year-round lineup of music festivals that cater to all tastes—from traditional Irish tunes to modern rock, electronic beats, and classical performances. Whether you’re a fan of intimate folk sessions or large outdoor concerts, Ireland offers something for everyone.

Here’s a guide to the most notable music festivals held across the island, both North and South. Ireland’s music festivals are as diverse as its landscape, offering tourists the chance to experience everything from traditional Irish sessions to cutting-edge contemporary performances. Whether you prefer the intimate charm of folk festivals or the electric energy of large-scale events, Ireland has a festival that will strike a chord with you. From the heart of Dublin to the scenic coastline of Donegal, the music

Electric Picnic (September) – Stradbally, County Laois

Electric Picnic is one of Ireland’s biggest and most beloved music festivals, blending an eclectic mix of genres with art installations, comedy, food, and wellness activities. It is often described as Ireland’s answer to Glastonbury due to its wide-ranging appeal.

Cork Jazz Festival (October) – Cork

One of Europe’s most renowned jazz festivals, the Cork Jazz Festival attracts international jazz legends and up-and-coming talent for a weekend of world-class performances in venues across the city.

Longitude (July) – Dublin

Longitude Festival  in Marlay Park Dublin is one of the best-known music events for fans of contemporary music, particularly younger crowds. It’s a vibrant, one-day festival featuring popular chart-topping artists in the fields of hip-hop, R&B, electronic, and indie music.

All Together Now (August) – County Waterford

A newer addition to Ireland’s festival calendar, All Together Now is a boutique festival held in the scenic Curraghmore Estate. Known for its laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, it blends music, art, and wellness in a beautiful natural setting. 

TradFest Temple Bar (January) – Dublin

Dublin’s Temple Bar TradFest is the largest festival of traditional Irish music, held annually in the city’s historic Temple Bar district. It offers visitors a chance to hear some of the best traditional Irish and folk musicians from Ireland and around the world. 

Fleadh Cheoil na Heireann (August) – Rotating Locations

Fleadh Cheoil is the world’s largest celebration of Irish traditional music, dance, and song. It’s an event steeped in history, drawing musicians and music lovers from across the globe. The festival is a competition-based event where the best traditional musicians compete in categories from solo performance to large bands. The location changes annually (past locations include Mullingar, Drogheda, and Ennis).

Body & Soul (June) – County Westmeath

Body & Soul is an intimate, arts-driven festival held at the historic Ballinlough Castle. It focuses on sustainability, community, and alternative music experiences, offering a more relaxed atmosphere than some of the larger festivals.

Sea Sessions (June) – Bundoran, County Donegal

If you love surf, sand, and sound, Sea Sessions is Ireland’s ultimate surf-and-music festival. Held in the coastal town of Bundoran, Donegal, it blends beachside activities like surfing and beach volleyball with live music

Belfast International Arts Festival (October) – Belfast

The Belfast International Arts Festival is the largest contemporary multi-arts festival in Northern Ireland, featuring not only music but also theatre, dance, and visual arts. Its music lineup ranges from classical to contemporary. 

 Rory Gallagher International Festival (June) – Ballyshannon, County Donegal

To honor his legacy, the Rory Gallagher International Festival is held annually in his birthplace of Ballyshannon, County Donegal. The festival has become one of the most important blues and rock music events in Ireland, attracting fans from around the world.

 Sligo Live (October) – Sligo

Sligo Live is Ireland’s premier roots and indie music festival, attracting folk and indie artists from around the world. Set in the picturesque town of Sligo, this festival highlights the county’s strong connection to traditional music, while also embracing modern indie sounds.

Cork Jazz Festival (October) – Cork

The Cork Jazz Festival is one of Ireland’s premier music festivals, drawing top jazz musicians from around the world. The streets of Cork come alive with performances, creating a festive and vibrant atmosphere. 

Arts Festivals throughout Ireland

 Galway International Arts Festival (July) – Galway

The Galway International Arts Festival is a multi-disciplinary event that brings together artists from around the world for two weeks of visual arts, theatre, music, street performances, and more.

Belfast International Arts Festival (October) – Belfast

The Belfast International Arts Festival showcases the best in contemporary arts from Northern Ireland and beyond. It’s a month-long event filled with music, dance, film, and visual arts.

Dublin international film festival

The Dublin International Film Festival (DIFF) is Ireland’s premier film event, held annually in Dublin. Founded in 2003, it has grown to become a significant fixture in the international film circuit, celebrating both Irish and global cinema. The festival usually takes place in February, spanning around 10 days, and features a diverse selection of films, from mainstream releases to independent and experimental projects.

Ireland in movies: Filmed in Ireland and about Ireland

The Wexford Opera Festival (October/November) – Wexford

This internationally acclaimed festival focuses on lesser-known operas and brings together talented performers from around the world. It takes place in the picturesque seaside town of Wexford.

Stendhal Festival (August) – Limavady, County Londonderry

Named after the famous French writer, Stendhal Festival is an independent music and arts festival that celebrates creativity and community in a relaxed setting. It’s Northern Ireland’s leading independent music festival, offering a family-friendly atmosphere and a wide range of genres. The festival is held at Ballymully Cottage Farm, Limavady, County Londonderry.

 Spraoi International Street Arts Festival

The Spraoi International Street Arts Festival is a vibrant and dynamic celebration of street performance, music, and visual arts held annually in Waterford, Ireland. Since its inception in 1993, Spraoi (pronounced “Spree”) has grown into one of the country’s most prominent street arts festivals, attracting performers and audiences from around the world.

The festival takes place over a weekend, typically around the August Bank Holiday, and transforms the city streets into a lively stage.

World Famous Irish celebrations

St Patrick’s Day (March 17th) – Nationwide

St. Patrick’s Day is perhaps the most well-known Irish festival, celebrated across the entire island, from Dublin to Belfast. Tourists flock to cities and towns to partake in parades, music, dancing, and the wearing of green in honor of Ireland’s patron saint. 

Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival (September) – County Clare

For over 160 years, the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival has been helping people find love. It is the largest festival of its kind in Europe and a unique opportunity for tourists to experience traditional Irish music, dancing, and, of course, matchmaking.

Rose of Tralee International Festival (August) – Tralee, County Kerry

The Rose of Tralee is an international festival celebrating Irish women from across the globe. It includes parades, concerts, street performances, and the crowning of the “Rose,” a woman who embodies the virtues of Irish culture and tradition.

 A Culinary Tour of Food Festivals in Ireland

Ireland’s food scene has evolved tremendously in recent years, embracing both its rich culinary traditions and modern innovations. Across the island, food festivals celebrate local produce, artisanal creations, seafood, whiskey, and craft beers, making Ireland a foodie’s paradise. From the coastal towns to the rolling countryside, here are the most notable food festivals that tourists can savor in Ireland.

Ireland’s food festivals showcase its rich natural produce, diverse cuisine, and artisanal crafts. From seafood feasts along the Wild Atlantic Way to harvest celebrations in the countryside, these festivals celebrate the flavors of Ireland, providing a unique opportunity for food lovers to taste and explore the culture, creativity, and hospitality that defines Irish cuisine.

Taste of Dublin (June) – Dublin

One of Ireland’s premier food events, Taste of Dublin is a vibrant festival where top chefs, restaurants, and food producers gather in the capital to showcase the best of Irish and international cuisine. It’s a four-day event filled with tastings, cooking demonstrations, and food-related workshops.

Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival (September) – Galway

The Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival is the oldest oyster festival in the world, dating back to 1954. This event is a celebration of Galway Bay’s famous oysters and attracts seafood lovers from all over the globe.

Ballymaloe May Fair and Ballymaloe LitFest (May) – County Cork

Hosted on the grounds of the famous Ballymaloe House and Cookery School, this festival focuses on food, sustainability, and arts. The event includes the Ballymaloe LitFest, a celebration of food writing, featuring talks by world-renowned chefs, writers, and food critics.

Dingle Food Festival (October) – County Kerry

The Dingle Food Festival, held in the picturesque coastal town of Dingle, is renowned for its Taste Trail, where visitors sample local food and drink from over 70 establishments. Dingle is also home to world-class seafood and the famous Dingle Gin.

A Taste of West Cork Food Festival (September) – West Cork

The Taste of West Cork is a celebration of the region’s bountiful produce, artisanal foods, and rich culinary traditions. West Cork is known for its seafood, organic farming, and artisan food scene, making this festival a foodie favorite.

Kilkenny Savour Food Festival (October/November) – Kilkenny

This autumn festival celebrates the best of Kilkenny’s local produce, artisanal foods, and culinary talent. The Savour Kilkenny festival offers a feast for the senses, with food markets, tastings, and culinary competitions.

 Belfast Beer and Cider Festival (November) – Belfast

Though focused on beer and cider, the Belfast Beer and Cider Festival also celebrates Northern Ireland’s growing food scene, with gourmet food trucks and local delicacies on offer. It’s a great way to sample the best local brews and bites.

Waterford Harvest Festival (September) – Waterford

The Waterford Harvest Festival is a celebration of local food, farming, and traditional Irish harvest practices. The event focuses on local producers from the southeast of Ireland, with an emphasis on fresh, sustainable produce.

The Big Grill Festival (August) – Dublin

This festival is dedicated entirely to the art of barbecuing and grilling, making it a unique event for meat lovers and grill enthusiasts. The Big Grill Festival is the largest BBQ festival in Ireland and features a range of local and international chefs showcasing their grilling skills.

Boyne Valley Food Series (May to September) – Counties Meath and Louth

The Boyne Valley Food Series is a collection of food events taking place over several months, celebrating the best of local food from the Boyne Valley region. This area is known for its ancient heritage and rich agricultural landscape.

The Connemara Mussel Festival (May) – County Galway

Celebrating one of the region’s finest delicacies, the Connemara Mussel Festival brings together seafood lovers and local producers to enjoy the freshest mussels harvested from the clean waters of Connemara and served at Tullycross.

Strangford Lough Festival (June) – County Down

The Strangford Lough Festival in Northern Ireland focuses on the exceptional seafood found in Strangford Lough and the surrounding areas. This festival celebrates local shellfish, particularly oysters, as well as other local produce.

Clonakilty Black Pudding Festival (October) – County Cork

A unique celebration of Ireland’s famous Clonakilty Black Pudding usually served with a Full Irish breakfast, this festival is dedicated to one of the country’s most beloved food products. It combines food, culture, and community spirit in the charming town of Clonakilty.

Donegal Town Food Festival (late September) – Donegal Town, County Donegal

This is a vibrant celebration of local cuisine in Donegal Town showcasing the rich culinary traditions and fresh produce of County Donegal. The festival features a wide array of food stalls, cooking demonstrations, and tastings, with local chefs, artisans, and producers offering everything from traditional Irish dishes to modern gourmet creations.

Seafood is often a highlight, given Donegal’s coastal location, with fresh fish, oysters, and mussels in abundance. The festival also includes live music, family-friendly activities, and opportunities to explore Donegal’s scenic beauty, making it a celebration of both food and community spirit.

Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant energy of St. Patrick’s Day, the artistic brilliance of Galway, or the quirky charm of the Puck Fair, Ireland offers an array of festivals that promise a rich cultural experience. The island’s festivals, North and South, provide an opportunity for tourists to immerse themselves in Irish culture, music, and tradition, making any visit to the Emerald Isle unforgettable. So, mark your calendar, pack your bags, and prepare to celebrate Ireland’s unique festival spirit!