Every summer, the town of Ballina, on the banks of the River Moy in County Mayo, comes alive with a special kind of excitement as it celebrates its famous Ballina Salmon Festival. This event, which attracts visitors from all over Ireland and beyond, is much more than a celebration of fishing: it’s a real immersion in Irish culture, history and community! A must-see event if you’re passing through!
The Ballina Salmon Festival is an annual festival held every July in the village of Ballina (County Mayo). In existence since 1964, this 100% family festival attracts nearly 200,000 visitors who come to enjoy a festive, 100% traditional atmosphere!
The Ballina Salmon Festival is a gigantic party that brings the village to life for over a week. It’s an opportunity for the city to claim its status as the salmon capital of Ireland.
The program includes street entertainment, traditional markets, shows, fireworks, sports events and salmon fishing sessions!
Fishing competitions attract amateurs and professionals alike, eager to test their skills against the capricious Atlantic salmon. But the festival goes far beyond fishing. Colorful parades, live music, craft workshops and art exhibitions transform the streets of Ballina into a vibrant celebration of Irish creativity and heritage.
The festival is designed to be gastronomic, cultural and sporting: a way of bringing tourists together to discover the fabulous assets of the village of Ballina!
The varied program will appeal to young and old alike. You can take part in workshops, historical walks, treasure hunts, triathlons, costume parades, raft races and fishing competitions!
It’s a great way to get to know the Irish and their cultural, gastronomic and historical heritage, all in a friendly atmosphere!