Best Festivals in Ireland: October 2026 and 2027 Travel Guide

Ireland’s festival calendar offers far more than summer concerts. From Cork Jazz and Derry Halloween to literary gatherings, food celebrations, traditional music and Christmas markets, the best festivals in Ireland bring cities, villages and historic venues to life throughout the year.

This guide highlights major festivals scheduled for the final months of 2026, followed by a selection of expected events in January and February 2027. Dates can change, so check each organiser’s official listings before booking travel or accommodation.

Best Festivals in Ireland in October 2026

October is one of the busiest periods for cultural events across the island. Visitors can combine autumn scenery with music, architecture, food, opera, film and Halloween celebrations.

Music, arts and cultural festivals

• Hidden Hearth, Carlow: Taking place from October 9 to 11 at Lisnavagh House, this intimate woodland event centres on music, movement, creativity, nature and community.
• Open House Dublin: From October 10 to 18, the Irish Architecture Foundation’s free programme presents tours and events exploring buildings, public spaces and urban design across Dublin.
• Belfast International Arts Festival: Running from October 14 to November 8, this major Northern Irish arts event features theatre, dance, music, visual art and literature across venues throughout Belfast.
• Wexford Festival Opera: From October 15 to 31, the festival continues its reputation for presenting rare and overlooked operatic works.
• Sligo Live: Between October 17 and November 1, Sligo hosts folk, roots and indie performances from established musicians and emerging artists.

Food and music highlights

Cork Jazz Festival runs from October 22 to 26 and is one of the standout music festivals in Ireland. Its Jazz Music Trail spreads performances across more than 70 venues, giving visitors the chance to explore Cork while hearing live music.

Also taking place from October 22 to 26, Savour Kilkenny marks its 20th year with a major food programme in the medieval city. Visitors can expect artisan producers, street food, cookery demonstrations, family entertainment and a Brewers & Distillers Marquee near Kilkenny Castle.

Roscommon International Film Festival, scheduled for October 22 to 24, showcases Irish and international filmmaking through screenings, awards and feedback for submissions.

Halloween festivals in Ireland

Halloween has deep connections with the ancient Irish festival of Samhain, making October an especially atmospheric time to visit.

• Bram Stoker Festival, Dublin: From October 23 to 26, theatre, talks, family activities and darkly themed events celebrate the Dublin-born author associated with Dracula.
• Derry Halloween: From October 28 to November 1, Derry hosts a large programme of arts, food, music, family activities and cultural events inspired by Samhain.
• Púca Festival: Running from October 29 to November 1 in Athboy and Trim, this festival combines folklore, myth, fire performances, food and live music.

Read more: long weekend travel ideas in Ireland

Planning a short break around a festival? Explore these related travel resources for Ireland travel inspiration and destination ideas and discover practical suggestions for scenic drives, historic towns and seasonal getaways.

Festivals in Ireland in November and December 2026

As autumn ends, the Irish festival calendar moves towards books, cinema, seasonal food and Christmas markets.

• Dublin Book Festival: From November 4 to 8, the programme includes author conversations, poetry, literary walks, workshops and family events.
• Leaves Festival of Writing and Music, Laois: Portlaoise hosts readings, screenings, workshops and performances from November 4 to 8.
• Cork International Film Festival: From November 12 to 22, Ireland’s first and largest film festival presents Irish features, international releases, discoveries and classic cinema.
• Winterval Waterford: From November 13 to December 23, Ireland’s oldest city offers festive attractions and free and ticketed events for families.
• Belfast Christmas Market: From November 14 to December 22, Belfast City Hall becomes a festive marketplace with food, gifts, traders and family entertainment.
• Corkmas: Beginning November 15 and continuing to December 31, Cork’s programme includes a Christmas parade, market, entertainment, Ferris wheel and vintage carousel.
• Dingle Lit: From November 20 to 22, writers and readers gather in West Kerry for conversations, readings, workshops and special events.
• Wicklow Gaol Christmas Market: From November 21 to December 20, the historic gaol hosts wooden chalets, festive food, crafts, live music and seasonal tours.
• Yulefest Kilkenny: From November 28 to December 23, the medieval city hosts a Christmas market, Santa experiences, live music and family activities.
• Galway Christmas Market: Running from mid-November into late December, the Eyre Square market features food, drink, stalls, rides and festive entertainment.

Early festivals in Ireland in 2027

The first months of the year are quieter than summer, but January and February still offer excellent events for travellers interested in music, literature, theatre, classical performance and film. Some dates below are provisional and should be confirmed with organisers.

January 2027

• Out to Lunch, Belfast: From January 17 to 30, the Cathedral Quarter hosts music, comedy, theatre, literature and spoken-word events.
• Folk iN Fusion, Belfast: Expected around January 12, this Nashville-to-Belfast event celebrates folk, roots, country and traditional music.
• Atlantic Irish Fest, Donegal: Likely from January 16 to 19, the festival combines traditional music with cultural experiences and local tours.
• TradFest, Dublin: From January 20 to 24, concerts in notable venues celebrate Irish traditional music.
• Midwinter Festival, Galway: From January 22 to 24, Music for Galway presents a three-day classical music programme.
• A Sliver of Light, Doolin: Expected from January 22 to 24, this winter weekender combines music, arts and outdoor experiences in West Clare.
• Brigit – Spirit of Kildare: Likely from January 28 to February 1, events honour St Brigid and Kildare’s Celtic heritage through art, culture and performance.
• Classics Now, Dublin: From January 29 to 31, discussions, screenings and performances examine the continuing influence of Ancient Greece and Rome.
• John McFadden Festival, Mayo: From January 29 to 31, Newport celebrates local musical heritage with sessions, workshops, céilís and concerts.

February 2027

• Imbolc Festival, Derry: Expected from February 1 to 7, the programme focuses on traditional, folk and world music.
• Festival of Youth Orchestras, Dublin: On February 6, young musicians from around Ireland perform at the National Concert Hall.
• Scene + Heard, Dublin: From February 11 to 27, Smock Alley Theatre showcases new work across theatre, comedy, music and dance.
• Dublin International Film Festival: From February 18 to 28, audiences can see new Irish and international cinema, premieres and selected classics.

Explore more Irish travel and culture guides

For more ideas before planning a festival break, browse Ireland culture and events coverage and find further inspiration at luxury Ireland travel and lifestyle guides. Always confirm transport, accommodation, ticket availability and final event dates directly with organisers.

How to plan a festival trip in Ireland

1. Book accommodation early for major events in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Belfast and Derry.
2. Check whether programmes are free, ticketed or spread across multiple venues.
3. Allow extra travel time for rural festivals and busy city-centre events.
4. Pack for changeable weather, particularly for outdoor Halloween and music activities.
5. Use public transport where possible and review late-night travel options before attending evening performances.

Conclusion

The best festivals in Ireland offer an ideal reason to explore beyond the country’s traditional tourist attractions. Whether you prefer jazz in Cork, opera in Wexford, literature in Dublin, food in Kilkenny, Halloween in Derry or winter celebrations in Waterford, there is a memorable event in almost every season. Use this calendar as a starting point, confirm dates before travelling and build your itinerary around the places and experiences that interest you most.