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Ireland knows how to celebrate. From small town fairs to world-famous parades, the festivals in Ireland are a reason to come together. Each festival brings something special. There’s food, music, laughter, and a strong sense of community. The charm of Irish festivals lies in their simplicity and heart. You won’t just watch, you’ll join in. From dancing in the streets to tasting traditional dishes, every moment feels alive. Moreover, many festivals mix old traditions with new trends. It’s this balance that makes Ireland’s celebrations truly enjoyable. Let’s walk through some of the most loved festivals in Ireland.
Top 14 Festivals In Ireland
Here is a list of famous festivals in Ireland that show the country’s different colours through art, music, food and whatnot.
1. St. Patrick’s Festival – Dublin
Photo: William Murphy / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
St. Patrick’s Day is one of the important festivals in Ireland. Every March 17th, the country turns green. The biggest event happens in Dublin, where the streets fill with parades, dancers, marching bands, and floats. People wear green clothes, paint shamrocks on their faces, and join the fun. Pubs stay packed. Families stroll through the city. Everyone celebrates Irish pride, and it feels like a nationwide birthday. Moreover, many visitors come from around the world just to be part of it. The vibe is friendly and loud, and there’s something to enjoy for all ages.
Location: Citywide, Dublin
2. Galway International Arts Festival
Photo: Ireland.com / Wikimedia Commons
This summer festival mixes music, art, theatre, and street performances. It lasts for two weeks in July and fills Galway with colors, sounds, and creativity. Artists from different countries come here to perform or display their work. You might see a quiet art gallery in the morning and a lively rock concert at night. The city’s streets stay busy. Cafes and pubs join in too, with pop-up events and live music. Additionally, many events are free, so it’s easy to explore something new without spending much.
Location: Galway City, County Galway
3. Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival
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This one’s all about love—but it’s not your usual dating event. Every September, people head to Lisdoonvarna in County Clare for dancing, music, and matchmaking. The tradition goes back more than 150 years. There’s even a real-life matchmaker who helps singles find their match! Pubs stay open late with live Irish music. Many visitors come for fun, not just romance. Older couples, young travellers, and curious tourists all mix together. However, don’t expect a quiet weekend—this festival is known for its energy and charm.
Location: Lisdoonvarna, County Clare
4. Puck Fair – Killorglin
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Held every August in Killorglin, County Kerry, this is one of Ireland’s oldest festivals. It goes back over 400 years! A wild goat is caught from the mountains and crowned “King Puck.” The goat sits in a cage in the town square (don’t worry, it’s safe and looked after). For three days, there are parades, live music, food stalls, and late-night fun. Children’s events happen during the day, and the crowd grows at night. Additionally, traders come from all over to sell crafts and goods.
Location: Killorglin, County Kerry
5. Dingle Food Festival
Photo: Richard Sutcliffe / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Food lovers, this one’s for you. The Dingle Food Festival is one of the best food festivals in Ireland and takes place in October. Thu Local chefs, farmers, and food brands come together to serve samples all across town. You can walk the “taste trail” and try everything from fish chowder to handmade chocolate. Moreover, many events are family-friendly, with cooking demos and kids’ activities. The views of Dingle Bay make the experience even better.
Location: Dingle, County Kerry
6. Cork Jazz Festival
Photo: William Murphy / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Held in late October, this is Ireland’s biggest jazz event. Musicians come from around the world to perform in pubs, halls, and even on street corners. The sound of saxophones and trumpets fills the air. There are late-night jam sessions, big concerts, and casual street shows. Even if you’re not a jazz fan, the energy of the crowd makes it fun. Moreover, Cork’s charm adds to the vibe, with its mix of old buildings and modern energy.
Location: Cork City
7. Wexford Festival Opera
Photo: Sinn Féin / Wikimedia Commons
Opera might sound fancy, but Wexford makes it fun and welcoming. Every October, this small town hosts singers and musicians from many countries. The shows are full-scale operas, often with rare pieces not performed anywhere else. The town becomes lively, with street music and special menus in restaurants. Moreover, the setting feels relaxed. You don’t need to be an opera expert to enjoy it. Many people come just to try something different.
Location: Wexford Town, County Wexford
8. Halloween Festival – Derry
Photo: William Murphy / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Derry goes all out for Halloween. In fact, it’s often called one of the best places in the world to celebrate it. The city hosts parades, spooky tours, light shows, and costume contests. People dress up in wild outfits, and the streets glow with decorations. Moreover, there are family zones, haunted houses, and fireworks. It’s not just for kids and adults have just as much fun. Derry’s old walls and historic streets make the whole thing feel extra spooky.
Location: Derry (Londonderry), Northern Ireland
9. Fleadh Cheoil Na hÉireann
Photo: Hinnerk R (Hinnerk Rümenapf) / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This is the biggest Irish music competition and festival. Every August, it brings thousands of musicians and fans to a new town each year. You’ll hear fiddles, pipes, flutes, and traditional songs in every corner. Some play on stage, others in the street. Kids and adults both take part. Additionally, there are workshops, ceilis (dances), and storytelling events. If you want to experience real Irish culture, this is the place to be.
Location: Changes yearly (check the latest host town)
10. Cat Laughs Comedy Festival – Kilkenny
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Every June bank holiday weekend, Kilkenny fills with laughter. The Cat Laughs Festival invites top comedians from Ireland and beyond. You can catch stand-up shows, panel chats, and surprise gigs in pubs. The mood is light, and the city feels like one big comedy club. Moreover, Kilkenny’s small size means you can easily walk from one venue to another. Many people bump into comedians casually during the day.
Location: Kilkenny City
11. Galway Film Fleadh
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Each July, the Galway Film Fleadh (pronounced “flah”) welcomes filmmakers, actors, and fans to celebrate storytelling on screen. This is not your average film fest—it blends red carpet premieres with local indie screenings. Directors and cast members often attend Q&As, giving viewers a closer look at the filmmaking process. Irish cinema is at the heart of it, but international films also shine here. It’s informal, friendly, and often the launchpad for new talent. Screenings take place in small theatres across the city, so everything feels personal and close-knit. Beyond the films, there are panel discussions and even script pitching sessions.
Location: Galway, Ireland
12. Waterford Winterval Festival
Photo: Oast House Archive / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Winterval Festival in Waterford turns the city into a magical Christmas village. Lights twinkle across the streets. There are markets, parades, ice skating, and even a Santa’s grotto. Families stroll through the medieval lanes with hot chocolate and treats in hand. You’ll find workshops for kids, music performances, and horse-drawn carriage rides. Moreover, local shops decorate their windows with festive themes, adding to the cozy feel. The whole event feels like stepping into a holiday movie. Waterford does a great job of making both locals and tourists feel welcome during this chilly time.
Location: Waterford City
13. Dublin Fringe Festival
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The Dublin Fringe Festival is a mix of bold theatre, comedy, dance, and experimental shows. It happens every September and draws artists from around the world. You might see a play in a theatre or a comedy act in a pub. The festival pushes creative boundaries, but it’s still fun and easy to enjoy. There’s something different on every corner. Moreover, the events are often interactive. Some shows take place in taxis, alleyways, or parks. If you’re someone who enjoys quirky and new experiences, this festival is worth checking out.
Location: Dublin City
14. Clifden Arts Festival
Photo: David Bergin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Clifden Arts Festival is celebrated every September in the small town of Clifden in Connemara. It brings together writers, musicians, visual artists, and performers. The whole town joins in to celebrate culture and creativity. You’ll find poetry readings, music concerts, art exhibits, and school events. Moreover, the scenic backdrop of mountains and sea makes it even more charming. Visitors can enjoy both the shows and the peaceful surroundings. It’s easy to feel welcome here. The festival has been running since 1977 and keeps growing every year.
Location: Clifden, County Galway
Ireland celebrates with heart. From fun food trails to lively parades and late-night concerts, these popular festivals in Ireland feel warm and welcoming. It’s not about big lights or expensive shows. It’s about people coming together, rain or shine, and sharing laughs, music, and memories. Moreover, many towns take great pride in their festivals. Plan a trip with TripXL help you explore these festivals with a suitable travel package.
Cover Photo: Paparazzi Ratzfatzzi / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
