TradFest

03/06/2026

We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Ronan Gallagher, a much-loved friend of Tradfest and the wider Temple Bar family.

Ronan brought so much warmth and joy to our Smithwick’s Sessions over the years, performing with The Ronan Gallagher Band and leaving lasting memories with everyone who had the pleasure of hearing him play.

A wonderful musician and a wonderful man, he will be sorely missed.

Our heartfelt condolences go to his brother Pádraig, his nephew Jack, the team at Gallagher’s Boxty House, and all of Ronan’s family, friends, and bandmates at this difficult time.

Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam. 🕯️

29/05/2026

performing with & at The Button Factory.

An electrifying performance that brought the audience to their feet, showcasing the energy and soul of contemporary Irish trad music. 🎶

25/05/2026

10,000+ trad & folk music friends 💚

Recently, TradFest tipped over the 10K mark here on Instagram. This isn't TradFest's original account, you might remember we had to start all over right before TradFest 2025!

So this page, these artists we're lucky enough to feature, the stories we share and the music we hear, watch and post about, is a testament to our culture and community 💚

TradFest will continue to push the boundaries, make sure everyone has space on stage, support shared music and culture and the access to it, and continue our mission that has always been - creating an inclusive, fun, diverse and eclectic festival to light up the dark days of winter here in Dublin.

'Trad without Frontiers' - it was never just a tag line.

Go raibh míle maith agaibh go léir as bheith linn
Thank you all so much for being with us

We go again | 20-24th January 2027

Le meas & le grá
Team TradFest 💚

📽️ Full capture & edit:
Lucas Sousa, Team TradFest 2026
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24/05/2026

An unforgettable evening with at Swords Castle 💚

Blending gospel, soul, pop and contemporary classics, the multi-award-winning choir brought warmth, joy and infectious energy to the historic surroundings of Swords Castle during TradFest 2026 🎶

Led by renowned conductor Joan Freeman, the choir’s performances are about far more than music alone, creating a powerful sense of togetherness and celebration that resonates with audiences long after the final song 💫

20/05/2026

Kíla brought unstoppable energy to the National Stadium during TradFest 2026 🎶

Formed in school in Dublin in the late 1980s, Kíla have spent decades redefining Irish folk music through their fearless blend of trad, world music, rhythm and storytelling ✨

Joined by and The Paul Frost Brass Band , the night was filled with explosive percussion, powerful melodies and a fusion of sounds that pushed Irish folk music in bold new directions 🤘

From start to finish, the crowd was swept up in an unforgettable celebration of music, movement and pure festival spirit 💚

To see more from and explore their summer tour dates, head over to their page 🎶

14/05/2026

Tonight’s episode of Ireland in Music on RTÉ Two brings together two remarkable Irish artists for a special celebration of music, culture and storytelling 💚
Following her standout performances at TradFest 2025, Donegal guitarist and singer Bradley joins for an evening of powerful conversation and incredible live music ✨

Known for her extraordinary fingerstyle guitar playing and deep connection to early blues traditions, Muireann has quickly become one of Ireland’s most exciting young musicians, earning international attention for her distinctive sound and musicianship far beyond her years 🎸

Ahead of her Irish summer tour beginning on May 24th, audiences can catch Muireann tonight from 11pm on RTÉ Two and RTÉ Player for another beautiful edition of Ireland in Music 🎶

Special thanks to our partners and for supporting this incredible programme

09/05/2026

Team TradFest was delighted to attend the Official Launch of Ablefest 2026 recently 💚

With brilliant live performances from Jake Carter, Sinead Jordan and Mundy; the event celebrated music, community, accessibility, and the incredible spirit behind Ablefest ✨

Our friends at Ablefest have joined us as part of TradFest the past two years and with no slowing down anytime soon, you can experience it for yourself this July 25th at Fairyhouse Racecourse!

Check out Ablefest social media for more info and to grab your ticket to join us there! 🎶

07/05/2026

07/05/2026

A special night of Irish music on RTÉ tonight 🎶💚

Featuring Mundy and Denise Chaila, Ireland in Music continues to celebrate the very best of traditional, folk, and contemporary Irish music from some of the country’s most iconic locations ✨

Developed by TradFest, the series blends powerful performances, storytelling, and stunning scenery to showcase Irish culture to audiences at home and around the world.

Tune in tonight at 11pm on RTÉ Two or watch back anyway on RTÉ Player

A huge thanks to our partners in Tourism Ireland land and Meath County Council co for making this programming possible 💚