TradFest 2026 Has More Momentum Than Ever Before
TradFest 2026 Has More Momentum Than Ever Before
TradFest has more momentum than ever going into 2026. We are seeing class acts forming a new generation of Irish traditional musicians as well as a fanbase more eager than ever. TradFest runs from 21-25 January. Click here to grab tickets.
Ireland has Trad fever and it’s spilling onto a global stage. It’s a sound that has always been close to our hearts but what we saw in 2025 from traditional music was more than impressive. Trad has not only been growing in popularity for its signature style, but we are seeing young artists come in and subvert what it means to make traditional Irish music. TradFest is all about celebrating the old and new, the classic and the contemporary.
We saw the festival kick off with one of the first official public appearances from our new President, Catherine Connolly, exemplifying a new era for Irish culture. Whether you’re dipping your toes into the vibrations of a bodhrán or you’re a seasoned appreciator of the uilleann pipes, there are events for all. Legendary artists such as Sharon Shannon and Mairéad Ní Mhaoniagh will take the stage to show the culmination of hundreds of years of Irish music. Elsewhere, up and coming acts are pushing Irish music forward, with performances from the likes of the nation’s current darlings Madra Salach.
Throughout the week, you will be able to experience free events to immerse yourself into traditional culture. Tickets are flying out the door, so keep a keen eye on the TradFest website to make sure you catch your favouritre acts. You will also be able to drop into one of the many free Smithwick’s Sessions in Temple Bar as well as countless céilís across pubs in the city.
Turn yourself into a beacon of Trad appreciation through some official TradFest merch. Grab yourself a TradFest twist on jerseys inspired by Ireland’s ’88 football campaign as well as their “Heart and Ceol” hoodies.
What would Ireland be without its backbone of traditional music? Moreso, what would Ireland be without the community built through céilís, traditional music, pub sesiúns and the all-encompassing world that Trad creates. This is your chance to be a part of the new Trad movement come 21 January. Click here to learn more.
Elsewhere on District: Meet The Illustrator Capturing Irish Trad With A Modern Twist: Miles Reilly
