Whilst exploring this land of saints and scholars, you’ll soon discover that Ireland is also a land of bikers, dancers, comedians, artists and so much more.
With so much talent across the island of Ireland, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to entertainment. Here are the top events and activities to check out across the country in the coming months, whatever part you’re staycationing in!
LEINSTER
Dublin | St Patrick’s Festival
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It seems wrong to have only one day a year dedicated to celebrating all that’s great about being Irish – and impossible to cram it all in! In our capital city, thousands of people seem to agree, with huge crowds set to flock there for a four-day long St Patrick’s Festival next weekend. The Dublin celebrations will include not just the iconic, globally-beloved St Patrick’s Day Parade, but also a jampacked programme of music, comedy, dance, storytelling sessions and so much more. Watch out for the science talks and Bollywood parties if you’re still unconvinced as to the variety that’s on offer. Mar 15-18; www.stpatricksfestival.ie
Huge crowds will be flocking to Dublin next weekend for a four-day long festival of St Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Kilkenny | Tradfest
This popular music festival is returning to Kilkenny this St Patrick’s Day weekend, bigger and better than ever. The line-up is packed full of both trad legends and young blood, with headliners such as Hothouse Flowers and John Spillane among the standouts. There’ll also be over 70 free gigs you can catch along the Bulmers Trad Trail. March 15-18; www.kilkennytradfest.com
Carlow | International Pan Celtic Festival
The Celts are coming back, and they’re flocking to Carlow to mark the 50th year of this iconic festival. A celebration of the cultural links between Ireland and fellow celtic nations Scotland, Wales, Brittany, Cornwall and the Isle of Man, the festival highlights all that’s great about Celtic traditions, be it through music, dance, sport, or language. April 2-6; www.panceltic.ie
Wexford | Wexford Drama Festival
Returning for its 60th year, this festival is pulling out all the stops for 2024. With an entertaining mixture of comedy, drama, tragedy and farce, there’s something for everyone to be found within the festival’s exciting line up of plays over its eight-night run. Among the standouts will be a performance of ‘The Lonesome West’, penned by playwright Martin McDonagh of Banshees of Inisherin fame. Mar 22-29; www.nationaloperahouse.ie/whats-on/book/wexford-drama-festival
Wicklow | Wicklow Mountain Bike Festival
Whether you’re looking for an action packed weekend yourself this coming May bank holiday, or a more relaxed atmosphere where you can be entertained and inspired by some of Ireland’s most talented sportspeople, Wicklow is the place to be! Spectators are welcome during all four days of the festival, as Ireland’s bravest and most skilful riders tackle Whip Off, Enduro, Cross Country and Downhill events. May 3-6; www.wicklowmtbfestival.ie
Louth | Drogheda Comedy Festival
Jason Byrne, Deirde O’Kane and Emma Doran are just some of the big names who’ll be taking to the stage for this year’s edition of Drogheda Comedy Festival. Featuring a number of promising up and comers as well, who’ll be performing in a range of intimate and larger venues throughout the town, there’s something for everyone in the lineup. Mar 8-10; www.visitlouth.ie/whats-on
Westmeath | All Ireland Drama Festival
The All Ireland Drama Festival has been exciting audiences for over 70 years, and 2024 will be no different! This year’s festival will see the country’s most talented actors and theatre groups wow audiences each night in Athlone’s Dean Crowe Theatre, while The Festival Fringe has its own full scale programme consisting of workshops, historic tours, exhibitions, and entertainment events throughout the town. May 2-10; www.dramafestival.ie
Meath | Hinterland Festival
Taking place in the spiritual home of the Book of Kells, since 2013 this festival has been bringing people to the beautiful heritage town to walk in the footsteps of pilgrims past on an illuminating journey of debate, discussion, reflection and imagination. While the full 2024 programme is yet to be announced, previous lineups have included notable guest such as Roddy Doyle and Marian Keyes. June 27-30; www.hinterland.ie
Laois | Timahoe Heritage Festival
Timahoe is a village steeped in centuries of history; from monks, monasteries and Vikings, to the famine, the War of Independence and beyond. This festival highlights the area’s history and heritage in a fun, interactive, & family friendly way - with heritage runs, a funfair, arts & crafts, fancy dress, a reenactment Viking Village and archery range just some of the activities on offer! June 1-2; www.timahoeheritagefestival.com
Kildare | Punchestown Festival
Experience one of the highlights of the Irish sporting calendar at Punchestown Racecourse, right at the heart of the action. Along with the racing, Punchestown is famous for its competitive best dressed competitions with exciting prizes up for grabs. The final day of the festival, meanwhile, known as Ballymore day, is a favourite with socialisers and families alike, with a dedicated children’s entertainment area. Apr 30 – May 4; www.punchestown.com
Longford | Granard BookTown Festival
Come see Ireland’s first official book town in all its glory, and hear from some of the country’s most celebrated authors while you’re there. This festival is a joyous celebration of rural Ireland and, more specifically, of Granard — a small town dedicated to books, literature and the arts. Last year’s speakers included renowned writer Donal Ryan, so keep an eye out for who’ll be in the 2024 lineup. Apr 19-21; www.granardbooktownfestival.ie
Offaly | Birr Festival of Music
This annual classical music festival has been a mainstay of the May Bank Holiday in Offaly since 2016. The festival programme features workshops, street performances, pop-up and online events featuring singers and musicians of national and international acclaim. Among the standouts are Birr Young Voices, a choral group of over 160 children between the ages of 8-12. May 2-6; www.birrfestivalofmusic.com
MUNSTER
Cork | World Book Fest
Cork World Book Fest 2024 marks the twentieth edition of the festival, featuring more exciting authors, workshops and events than ever before. If previous years are anything to go by, expect pop up poetry shows, exciting book launches and opportunities for aspiring writers to meet with, and pitch to, the nation’s top book agents. Apr 23-18; www.corkworldbookfest.com
Kerry | Bikefest
This three-day motorcycle and rock music extravaganza is celebrating its 16th anniversary in 2024. From bikers to non-bikers or even aspiring bikers, visitors, tourists, families and locals, BikeFest has something for all. Whether you watch the famous Parade pass through Killarney town, or become a rockstar for an hour or so with a free Harley Davidson demo ride, or get even more adventurous still with a Wild Atlantic Way Ride Out, you’re guaranteed to have a fun time. May 31 – June 2; www.irelandbikefest.com
Waterford | West Waterford Festival of Food
This annual festival highlights Dungarvan as a mecca for food lovers and fun seekers. A mix of free events and ticketed ones, as well as high-end dining opportunities and casual bistro experiences, there’s something for all tastes, ages and budgets. The weekend’s previously drawn in Michelin star chefs such as Ross Lewis of Chapter One in Dublin and Martijn Kajuiter of the Cliff House in Ardmore. Apr 19-21; www.waterfordfestivaloffood.com
Michael Carey (10) feeding a calf at O’Sullivan’s farm on the Family Farm Bus Tour in Colligan as part of the West Waterford Festival of Food. The event is one of Ireland’s oldest food festivals.
Limerick | Riverfest
Whether you’re looking for a family day out or a night out on the town over the May Bank Holiday weekend, you’d be hard pressed to find a better spot than Limerick! From live music at King John’s Castle to stunts on the River Shannon, a sizzling BBQ and spectacular fireworks display, you’ll be spoiled for choice. May 3-6; www.limerick.ie/riverfest
Tipperary | Tipperary Town Music Festival
Now in its second year, this festival is coming back with a bang in May. The Tumbling Paddies, Mike Denver, a Tina Turner tribute act and more are among the lineup for these four days of non-stop music. May 9-12; www.tipperarytown.ie
Clare | Consairtín
This annual Ennis festival celebrates the role of the concertina in traditional music, bringing together some of the finest concertina performers from all corners of the world. Over four days attendees will get to enjoy classes, workshops, lectures, concert performances, casual sessions and more. Players of all ages and abilities are welcome. Apr 4-7; www.consairtin.ie
ULSTER
Fermanagh | Fermanagh Classic Fishing Festival
The Fishing Classic is returning to Lakeland county this year for its 47th edition! One of the longest established events in Fermanagh, the festival attracts anglers from all over the world with participants from Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Great Britain, Germany, France and further afield coming to take part. Apr 29 – May 3; www.fermanaghomagh.com/services/tourism/fermanagh-classic-fishing-festival/
Antrim | AVA Festival
Belfast’s AVA (Audio Visual Arts) Festival turns 10 this year, and the organisers are pulling out all the stops to celebrate. The festival encompasses a conference, arts exhibition, installations and an outdoor multi-stage festival, showcasing the very best that electronic music and Irish visual arts has to offer. Fan favourites Bicep are among the headliners to look out for. May 31- June 1; www.avafestival.com/belfast/
Tyrone | Bluegrass Omagh
Bluegrass returns to the Ulster American Folk Park this May, promising a weekend of foot-stompin’ rhythms, toe-tappin’ tunes and lots more. Milkeaters and Thomas Cassell are among the headline acts for music lovers to catch over the weekend, while a fun-filled Family Day on Bank Holiday Monday ensures the celebrations carry on a bit longer. May 3-6; www.ulsteramericanfolkpark.org/whats-on/bluegrass-omagh-2024
Derry | City of Derry Jazz & Big Band Festival
Returning for its 23rd edition, this iconic festival brings tens of thousands of people from all over the world together to celebrate music and enjoy the hundreds of events due to take place over the May bank holiday weekend. Among the highlights is a 13-piece band reviving the magic of Bruce Springsteen’s Seeger Sessions. May 2-6; www.cityofderryjazzfestival.com
Armagh | St Patrick’s Day Festival
Armagh’s annual St Patrick’s Day Parade is a sight to behold, with a spectacular display of colour, music, art and entertainment for all to enjoy. It’s far from the only event in the city to celebrate the patron saint, however! Across eight days, there’s a huge variety of activities to choose from, including Irish film screenings, Aran knitting workshops, walking tours, comedy shows and much more. Mar 10-18; www.visitarmagh.com/festivals/st-patricks
Down | Buskfest
The streets of Banbridge are set to come alive this June for the town’s annual outdoor busking competition. A multitude of musicians, singers, bands, solo artists and street performers can be heard throughout the town centre, as they each compete for a portion of the total £3000 prize pot. It’s an excellent opportunity for local musicians to showcase their skills, as well as a great day out for all the family to enjoy. June 22; www.discovernorthernireland.com/whats-on/buskfest
Donegal | The Easter Express
Head to Donegal’s Oakfield Park to board the Easter Express! This train journey through the magical forest not only allows you to meet fascinating characters from Wonderland, as well as the Easter Bunny himself, but also gives you the chance to find delicious surprises in the Easter Egg Hunt. Mar 29 – Apr 1; www.govisitdonegal.com/festivals-and-events/the-easter-express
Monaghan | Monaghan Country Music Festival
Hang on to your hats and get your dancing boots ready for the return of this popular country music festival. While the full lineup is yet to be announced, past performers such as Mike Denver, Patrick Feeney and Jimmy Buckley are a good indicator of the calibre expected. July 18-21; www.monaghantowncountrymusic.ie
“DJ No Brakes” aka Con Horgan leading the Pedal Push Parade through Cavan town as part of Cavan Arts Festival.
Cavan| Cavan Arts Festival
Experience a magical four days and nights of art and culture in the heart of Cavan Town as this festival expands your imagination through theatre, dance, street arts, spectacle, visual art, music, contemporary circus and participatory shows, events, talks and workshops. May 16-19; www.cavanartsfestival.ie
CONNACHT
Galway | Cúirt International Festival of Literature
Founded in Galway in 1985, Cúirt is one of Europe’s oldest book festivals. It returns this April for its 39th edition, showcasing Irish and international readers who can connect with readers through the festival’s extensive programme of events. Max Porter and Anne Enright are just some of the big names that have previously taken part. Apr 23-28; www.cuirt.ie
Leitrim | Cowboys and Heroes Festival
One of Ireland’s largest country music and Americana festivals returns to Drumcoura city this May with a full line up of top Irish country music acts alongside an American car show, Western horse shows, barrel racing, line dancing and jiving classes, food and market stalls and lots more. May 31 – June 3; www.cowboysandheroes.ie
Roscommon | Night and Day Festival
A packed schedule of music, exhibitions, political debate and family friendly fun is promised in the beautiful surroundings of Lough Key Forest Park for Night & Day 2024. Bell X1 and The Undertones are just some of the notable acts who’ll be taking to the festival stage, while elsewhere on site a dedicated family zone will offer face painting, dance classes and a circus skills workshop. June 28-30; www.nightandday.ie
Mayo | Ballina Salmon Festival
In Ballina, nicknamed the Salmon Capital of Ireland, this festival is celebrating its 60th year this July. With unmissable live music from Mike Denver and more, as well as river frolics, Krazy Kart races, a teddy bear picnic and fireworks display being just some of the activities lined up, there’s something to keep all the family happy. July 6-14; www.facebook.com/ballinasalmonfestival.mayo/
Wild Women of Wild Roots pictured onboard the ship they have built on the Wild Roots Festival site in Hazel Wood, Sligo. The festival takes place over the June Bank Holiday Weekend.
Sligo | Wild Roots
Whether you delight in the sound of a good beat, love to dance under the stars, or crave a piece of adventure and want to take to the lake, this festival’s got it all. With the festival programme catering to everything from comedy to wellness, to enchanted forest activities and of course top music acts, you’re in for a treat if attending this May. May 31 – June 3; www.wildroots.ie