2026 Events Not to Be Missed! Thank you From Travel2Ireland

As we ring in 2026, we at Travel2Ireland want to express our deepest gratitude to all our readers and partners who made 2025 such an incredible year. To celebrate, here’s the best events, festivals and experiences you can look forward to in Ireland in 2026!

A Heartfelt Thank You!

To our loyal readers, thank you for joining us on countless journeys across Ireland,exploring its festivals, enjoying its delicious cuisine, and discovering its hidden gems.

To our amazing partners, thank you for trusting us to showcase everything from Ireland’s rich food culture and world-class festivals to unforgettable experiences and must-visit attractions. Your passion and dedication brought the magic of Ireland to life for so many travellers, and we’re thrilled to have been part of your journey.

Together, we’ve celebrated the essence of Ireland, and we can’t wait to continue sharing its beauty with the world in 2026. Here’s to another year of adventure, connection, and success!

To help you plan your travels, we’ve rounded up some of the most exciting events happening in Ireland this year, and trust us - there’s something on the calendar for everyone.

Mark Your Calendars - Ireland’s Top Events of 2026

Main Festivals

• St. Patrick’s Festival (Dublin – March): Celebrate Ireland’s patron saint with parades, music, and festivities nationwide. Dublin hosts the largest parade, but smaller towns offer their unique charm.

• Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival (Belfast, May): For an explosion of creativity, head to Belfast during the Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival. This celebration showcases the best in music, literature, and visual arts, turning the historic Cathedral Quarter into a cultural hub.

• Galway International Arts Festival (July): A spectacular showcase of theatre, music, and visual arts in the vibrant city of Galway.

• Puck Fair (County Kerry – August): Ireland’s oldest festival in Killorglin celebrates with a crowned goat king, parades, live music, and a funfair.

• Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann (Wexford – August): The largest traditional Irish music festival returns to Mullingar with ceili dances, competitions, and concerts.

• Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival (August–September): Love is in the air at this unique festival in County Clare, with live music and dancing every day.

• Púca Festival (Athboy/Trim, late October). The festival celebrates the ancient spirit of Halloween, which originated in Ireland more than 2000 years ago

• Derry Halloween (October 31st) The Walled City transforms into a Halloween haven with one of the world’s biggest Halloween celebrations. Join the eerie festivities, including the famous parade and spooky events suitable for all ages.

For the Outdoor Enthusiasts

• Wander Wild Festival, Killarney (April)

• Ocean to City, Cork (May)

• Quest Lough Derg, Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands (September)

• Wicklow Eco Trail (September)

• Mayo Dark Skies (November)

For Music Lovers

• Tradfest, Dublin (End of January)

• Kilkenny Tradfest. (March)

• Rory Gallagher International Festival (Donegal, May – June )

• Sea Sessions, County Donegal (June)

• West Cork Chamber Music Festival (June–July): 

• Electric Picnic, County Laois (August)

• Wexford Festival Opera

• Cork Jazz Festival (October)

Literature and visual arts

• Listowel Writers Week, County Kerry (May)

• Bloomsday Festival (Dublin – June): 

• Galway Film Fleadh (July)

• Kilkenny Arts (August)

• Dublin Theatre Festival (September)

• Clifden Arts (September)

• Belfast International Arts Festival (October-November)

• Kilkenny Animated (October)

For Foodies

• Waterford Festival of Food (April)

• Taste of Dublin (June)

• Galway Oyster Festival (September)

• Dingle Food Festival (October)

• Samhain Festival of Food & Culture (November)

  
  

Showcase Your Business with Travel2Ireland

Are you a business or attraction looking to shine in 2026? At Travel2Ireland, we love showcasing the best that Ireland has to offer, from unique accommodations to hidden foodie gems, activities, and unforgettable experiences.

Partner with us to put your business in the spotlight and connect with our engaged audience of enthusiastic travellers. If you’re organising an event, running a must-visit attraction, or offering services for tourists, we’d love to help you reach more people.

Let’s make 2026 your most successful year yet!

Contact Katie Doyle, Head of Content for Travel2Ireland at KatieD@ittn.ie to discuss partnership opportunities and explore how we can work together.

Cheers to a Fabulous Year Ahead

As you plan your adventures for 2026, we hope you’ll find inspiration in Ireland’s rich calendar of events. Stay tuned to Travel2Ireland for all the latest tips, guides, and updates. Here’s to a year filled with discovery and joy - sláinte!