One of the many benefits of travelling with Ireland Chauffeur Travel is our local knowledge. Beyond the breathtaking scenery, luxury hotels, historic landmarks, and exceptional dining experiences, Ireland is home to a vibrant calendar of festivals and events that showcase the country’s rich culture, traditions, music, food, sport, and creativity.
From world-famous horse racing festivals and traditional music gatherings to arts celebrations and unique local customs, there is always something happening across the island of Ireland. Our experienced Tour Consultants and Driver Guides know exactly what’s happening, where to be, and how to seamlessly incorporate these memorable events into your bespoke itinerary.
Whether you’re passionate about music, food, theatre, sport, culture, or simply looking to experience Ireland like a local, these festivals offer the perfect opportunity to add something truly special to your journey.
Here are just some of the wonderful festivals and events that can be included as part of your private guided tour of Ireland.
Clonmel Junction Arts Festival: 3rd – 12th July 2026
Visit the town of Clonmel, located in County Tipperary for a unique festival celebrating regional based artists. A program of music, arts, theatre, visual arts, this is a must visit on your trip.
Galway International Arts Festival: 13th – 26th July 2026
Visit the vibrant city of Galway and experience a festival like no other. The festival program includes Irish and international work of the highest quality, featuring theatre, music, visual arts, opera, street spectacle, dance, discussion and comedy.
Belfast Trad Festival: July 26th – 2nd August 2026
Visit the exciting city of Belfast and discover world-class musicians as they bring the city to life for seven days of concerts, sessions, céilí and music masterclasses.
Galway Races Festival: July 27th – August 2nd 2026
Ireland’s horse heritage has developed from folklore, legends & High Kings to a place where the story of the horse is embedded within the Irish DNA. Ireland’s global reputation as a leader in the breeding and racing of the Thoroughbred is long established. Visit one of the most exciting racing festivals this July in the vibrant city of Galway. Experience food, fashion, music and of course, the love of the horse at this unique racing festival.
Puck Fair: August 10th – 12th 2026
It might sound like the start of a fairytale, but the Puck Fair is one of Ireland’s oldest and most unique fairs. Since 1603, for three days in August, a small town in County Kerry – Killorglin – is locked in celebration of a wild goat! The crowned King Puck stands over the town as temporary ruler for three days as the festivities roll, before being returned to the wild.
This celebration, which is steeped in history and tradition, is one not to miss.
The Rose of Tralee: August 14th – 18th 2026
The Rose of Tralee is one of those uniquely Irish gems. Celebrated for over 60 years and followed from across the globe, every Irish person will be able to give you a memory from the festival, which celebrates Ireland and her diaspora. Entrants compete over one weekend in this world-televised event to be the “Rose of Tralee”. The festival not only celebrates Irish ancestry but what Irish people are doing around the world. Each contestant tells their stories, and experiences and shares their talents. The winner goes on to represent their city or country on a world tour for the following year.
Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival: September 1st – 30th 2026
Will the luck of the Irish be on your side when it comes to love? With the help of the world-renowned Lisdoonvarra Matchmaking festival, it just might be! This is the original offline matchmaking festival; a month-long festival in the village of Lisdoonvarna, on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, with endless opportunities to get together and meet new people from around the world. The festival also boasts Ireland’s top country musicians, so your matchmaking days won’t be without that special atmospheric touch. It’s no surprise this over-18s event attracts thousands of people every year.
Dublin Fringe Festival: September 5th – 20th 2026
Dublin Fringe Festival is a curated, multidisciplinary arts festival that encourages discovery, simulates curiosity and creates memorable encounters. Experience a line-up like not other.
Ploughing Championships: September 15th – 17th 2026
The National Ploughing Championships takes place each year in the month of September in Laois. A national farming treasure. It is a week-long event which sees the farmers of the country compete in very precise ploughing challenges. But it’s not only a ploughing competition, this event also boasts serious shopping, gourmet food offerings and great daily entertainment. It’s a must-do for families.
Galway Oyster Festival: September 25th to 27th 2026
The oldest oyster festival in the world and described by the Sunday Times as “one of the 12 greatest shows on earth”, the festival celebrates Galway’s rich annual oyster harvest (in season from September – April). The Irish and World Oyster Opening or ‘shucking’ Championships are held during the festival, as well as top class entertainment, street parades, seafood trails, celebrated hospitality and the start of many new friendships.
Wexford Festival Opera: October 15th – 31st 2026
A celebration of unique performances with 70 events over 16 days. This year’s captivating programme explores the intriguing theme of ‘Myths & Legends’, offering a glimpse into the world behind the curtain. Wexford Festival Opera is world renowned for its exceptional artistry and its warm, welcoming atmosphere. Main stage operas include Le maschere by Pietro Mascagni and The Critic by Charles Villiers Stanford.
Cork Jazz Festival: October 22nd – 26th 2026
The Cork Jazz Festival is an annual music festival held in Cork, in late October. The first festival began in 1978, conceived by Jim Mountjoy, the marketing manager of the Metropole Hotel. Designed to coincide with the newly instituted October Bank Holiday, it was the perfect way to build demand for the hotel and it has grown every year since. The city comes alive with the sound of the blues echoing out of every venue, from the smallest cosy pub to the Opera House. Talented and colourful street artists add an extra flair to the city squares and parks from morning until dusk. This really is a chance to see Cork come alive while you enjoy some of the world’s most famous jazz musicians and performers.
Puca Festival: October 29th – Nov 1st 2026
Evidence gathered from archaeology digs, legends, myths and Celtic history have all been examined to unearth the story of the authentic origins of Halloween in Ireland. According to Irish folklore, Halloween can be traced back to the ancient Celtic tradition of Samhain. The old Irish for ‘summer’s end’, Samhain marked the end of the harvest season and the start of the New Year. Through the spectacular nights at Púca Festival, salute the Halloween spirits through folklore, food, myth and music reopening the pathways of reflection and celebration carved by travelers over 2,000 years ago.
