Applications open for Fáilte Ireland regional festival and events fund 2026

Fáilte Ireland fund open for 2026 Longford festivals and events.
Events from 1 January to 31 December 2026 eligible.
Minimum two consecutive days and international visitor focus required.
Categories include arts, food, sports, and general festivals.
Applications close 5pm on 29 January 2026 via online form

Applications for the Fáilte Ireland Regional Festival and Participative Events Fund for events during 2026, with deadlines varying by Local Authority.

The fund supports festivals and events from 1 January to 31 December 2026 that drive domestic and international tourism and increase economic activity in the community. Eligible events must last a minimum of two consecutive days and aim to attract international visitors. Categories include general festivals, arts music and theatre, food and drink, sports and outdoors, business and education, and other. Ineligible events cover purely commercial projects, agricultural shows with limited tourism appeal, spectator-based sports, circuses, carnivals, and Christmas fairs.

The scheme targets community and voluntary groups organising diverse projects to enhance rural Ireland as a destination to live, work, and visit. Applications require completed online forms submitted by 5pm on 29 January 2026. Incomplete or late submissions will not receive consideration. The fund excludes ongoing running costs, debt repayments, and activities with existing statutory funding.

Fáilte Ireland works with local councils, so groups are entitled yo apply through their specific County Council.