Anyone in the market for a relaxed summer break, staying in privately owned accommodation and spending their days enjoying the best that cultural Ireland has to offer is in luck.
From Irish folk festivals to jazz concerts; open air theatre to film, Ireland has plenty to offer music and culture fans this summer.
Wherever an exciting arts event is taking place, there is a Hidden Ireland country house, countryside B&B or cottage within a highly manageable travelling distance.
Spraoi International Street Arts Festival
Waterford, 2 – 4 August
An eclectic programme of street music, theatre and arts events takes place in Waterford at the start of August, culminating in a colourful parade of performers, costumes, fireworks and special effects.
One not to be missed.
A warm and welcoming family festival that really does have something to offer visitors of all ages.
Choose from around 200 acts descending from around the world, all completely free to watch and enjoy. Delicious street food available too, showcasing the best that Waterford has to offer.
Kilkenny Arts Festival
Kilkenny, 8 – 18 August
This popular festival is over 50 years old and still going strong!
Showcasing the very best of choral works, opera, chamber music, dance and theatre, this highly cultural, searingly beautiful programme is sure to have something to suit everyone’s tastes. Whether they lean towards the classical or yearn to experience something more contemporary.
Full programme, dates and booking information online.
Electric Picnic
Stradbally Hall, Co. Laois, 16 – 18 August
Irish arts and music events don’t come much bigger than Electric Picnic. Especially since global pop sensation Kylie Minogue will be headlining, along with Calvin Harris and Kodaline. This annual rock ‘n’ roll festival offers music, comedy, theatre and holistic health in a colourful mix of heady summer fun. Even if you don’t manage to bag yourself a ticket to the main event, the area will be alive with visitors and attractions and you might even be able to spot a famous face or two in town.
Masters of Tradition
Bantry, Cork, 21 – 25 August
For an authentic, traditional Irish music experience, head over to this charming festival in Bantry on Cork’s west coast. Masters of Tradition offers its visitors exactly what you might expect, with lively, beautiful traditional music from talented musicians and singers. Listen to enchanting performances from Celtic instruments such as the concertina, Scottish small pipes, Uilleann pipes and Irish fiddle. Or get lost in the dreamy world of Celtic folksong. Enjoy the ultimate Irish cultural event this summer.
Dublin Fringe Festival
Dublin, 7 – 22 September
Why should Edinburgh be the only place for some Fringe fun? If you are planning a late summer break in Ireland’s capital city this year, take a look at the exciting programme of new and emerging acts making their professional break-through in this multi-disciplinary arts festival. You might be lucky enough to be in at the start of Ireland’s next huge star’s comedy or musical career! Details of acts, dates and venues are available online.
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