In County Galway, traditional tunes travel from concert halls to schools, from city stages to communities across Connemara. Galway TradFest celebrates this living culture by giving as much space to established artists as it does to young people learning to pass it on in turn.
Created in 2024 and produced by Music Generation Galway County, the festival brings together concerts, workshops and events centred on the traditional arts of Ireland. Its programme takes place in Galway city and elsewhere in the county, so check the location of each event before setting off.
Passing on the tradition is central to the festival. Young people meet experienced musicians and dancers, while bilingual projects also give the Irish language a voice, particularly in the Connemara Gaeltacht.
The 2026 edition features Sharon Shannon, Mike McGoldrick, Seán Keane, and Séamus and Caoimhe Uí Fhlatharta. The programme also explores céilí and sean-nós, a tradition of singing and dancing associated with Gaelic culture.
Among the projects announced, GLÓR brings together young singers from Connemara for workshops and a performance, while LASADH showcases young artists at the end of the festival. Some events are designed for schools or specific groups, so check the arrangements before travelling.
Events are spread across several towns and villages. From Galway, you can combine a concert with a visit to Connemara, allowing plenty of time for the journeys. Find venues, bookings and the latest information on the official Galway TradFest website.
Essential information to help you plan your visit, including key landmarks, access information, and booking options.
