[2026] Ireland’s music festivals you might not know about—feel the local excitement

This is a music festival held in Ballybunion, County Kerry, Ireland. Set along the Wild Atlantic Way by the sea, the venue encompasses the former Atlantic Hotel site and its adjoining grounds, featuring views of the Atlantic Ocean and the ruins of Ballybunion Castle. A big top tent accommodating around 2,000 people will be installed, hosting a diverse array of live performances including Irish folk and dance music. The festival will take place from July 10 to 12, 2026.

The South Galway Bay Music Festival is an outdoor music festival held in the village of Ballinderreen in County Galway, Ireland. Inspired by the area’s history as a lively hub for touring showbands, it embraces the concept of carrying on its musical heritage. With a Big Top tent and outdoor areas, the venue is designed to be weather-resistant. In 2026, it will take place from July 10 to 12, featuring acts including Hermitage Green.

At the international arts festival held in Galway in western Ireland, it promotes an open atmosphere where everyone is welcome. The entire city of Galway is enlivened as a stage where performance, theater, opera, visual arts, music, and spectacle converge, and officials position it as having grown into one of Europe’s leading cultural festivals. In the music program, acts such as The Flaming Lips will perform, and in 2026 it will be held from July 13 to 26.

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A music and arts festival held in Emo Village, Laois. Officially billed as “Ireland’s Award Winning Indie Music Festival,” it offers a stay-all-weekend experience with live music, comedy, family activities, street food, craft drinks, and camping. In 2026, it runs from July 24 to 26, and will introduce a new area, “Kickin’ Up Dust,” showcasing country, Americana, and roots.

A festival of traditional and world music held in Ballyshannon, County Donegal, Ireland. Officially described as “one of the oldest genre-based festivals in the world” and “the oldest continuously running traditional music festival in Ireland.” The venue is Ireland’s oldest town, spread along the banks of the River Erne on the Wild Atlantic Way. In addition to marquee concerts, there are pub sessions and street performances, filling the entire town with music. In 2026, it will be held from July 30 to August 2.