Here are the upcoming festivals and events in County Louth from 20 March to 1 May 2026, featuring a dynamic mix of eco-cultural celebrations, live music tributes, theatre productions, wellness activities, sports, and community gatherings across key venues in Drogheda and Dundalk. This spring period highlights the county’s vibrant arts scene, heritage, and outdoor pursuits.
Major Festivals and Multi-Day Events
- Awakening the Earth Festival (20-22 March): A three-day eco-cultural and Spring Equinox celebration in Drogheda, starting with an online eco-talk on 20 March, followed by the main event on 22 March at St. Mary’s Parish Centre. It includes live music, circle dances, a “Swap Table” for sustainable exchanges, fire ceremonies, sound healing, cacao rituals, art workshops, and nature-focused activities to promote environmental awareness and community renewal.
Music & Performance Highlights
- Bi-2 with Symphony Orchestra (20 March): A standout concert by the acclaimed Russian rock band Bi-2 at The TLT (Tommy Leddy Theatre) in Drogheda, blending energetic rock hits with orchestral elements for an international music experience.
- Run To The Beast (21 March): An Iron Maiden tribute performance at Toales Music Venue in Dundalk, delivering high-energy heavy metal classics.
- Green Week (Green Day Tribute) (4 April): A top tribute act to Green Day performing punk rock anthems at Toale’s in Dundalk.
- Harvest (Neil Young Tribute) (11 April): A live tribute to Neil Young at The Spirit Store in Dundalk, capturing folk-rock essence.
- S.O.N.G. “We Will Rock You” (15 April): A Queen-inspired jukebox musical production at An T√°in Arts Centre in Dundalk, full of iconic hits and theatrical energy.
- Smash Hits @East‚Ä® (18 April): A high-energy 90s tribute night at East on West Street in Drogheda
Theatre, Arts & Community Events
- Michael Mania (10 April): A spectacular Michael Jackson tribute show with choreography and visual effects at The TLT in Drogheda.
- PlayThis Indie Game Festival (11 April): A celebration of independent video games at An T√°in Arts Centre in Dundalk, showcasing innovative and experimental titles.
- Popstars The Musical (22 April): A musical theatre production performed by Coláiste Rís students at An Táin Arts Centre in Dundalk.
- Exhibition: Celebrating 30 Years of Bridge Street Studios (ongoing into late March): An exhibition at An T√°in Arts Centre in Dundalk honouring local artistic heritage.
- Dundalk vs. Galway United (17 April): A Premier Division football match at Oriel Park in Dundalk, featuring competitive League of Ireland action.
Other Notable Activities
- Boyne Valley Camino – Drogheda Walk (28 March): A 25km guided Celtic pilgrimage loop starting at St. Peter’s Parish Church in Drogheda, with opportunities to collect official Camino stamps.
- Journey of Qigong and Sound Healing (29 March): A Sunday evening wellness session focused on qigong practices and sound healing in the Louth area.
- European Dance Masters (10 April): A major line dancing championship at the Fairways Hotel in Dundalk.
- Battle of the Barbelles (26 April): An empowering all-female powerlifting competition at Boyneside Gym in Drogheda, celebrating women in strength sports.
Annual & recurring festivals
County Louth, known as the “Land of Legends,” hosts a variety of festivals that celebrate its medieval history, coastal heritage, and vibrant arts scene.
- Vantastival (May): A family-friendly independent music festival held at Beaulieu House, famous for its campervan-centric culture and diverse musical lineup.
- Carlingford Oyster Festival (August): A major four-day celebration of the local oyster harvest featuring seafood trails, street markets, and the “Oyster Pearl” competition.
- Boyne Music Festival (August): A prestigious international chamber music festival held at Townley Hall, featuring world-class classical performances and workshops.
- Louth Agricultural Show (July): A long-standing rural tradition in Dundalk featuring livestock competitions, show jumping, and home industry displays.
- Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann (August): While it rotates, Drogheda has famously hosted this massive national celebration of traditional Irish music and dance multiple times.
- Drogheda Arts Festival (May): A multi-disciplinary festival featuring local and international talent in theatre, visual arts, and outdoor spectacles.
- Lean na gCailleach / The Witch’s Trail (October): A unique Halloween heritage event in Carlingford based on local mountain legends and folklore.
- Dundalk Frostival (November): The official kick-off to the Christmas season in Dundalk, featuring a light parade, festive markets, and a carnival atmosphere.
- Brigid of Faughart Festival (February): A celebration of St. Brigid (who was born in Faughart) featuring spiritual walks, talks, and traditional workshops.
- Drogheda Classical Music Series (October–April): A recurring winter series of high-profile international concerts held in St. Peter’s Church.
- Púca Festival (October/November): A major regional Halloween celebration often shared with Meath, celebrating the ancient spirits of Samhain with music and fire displays in Drogheda.
- Irish Maritime Festival (June): Held at the Port of Drogheda, this event features tall ships, boat races, and a massive local food “village.”
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Festivals
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