- Coming Together Festival (Louth Contemporary Music Society), Dundalk (19–20 June): An intimate contemporary music festival featuring multiple concerts across distinctive venues such as St Nicholas’ Church of Ireland, Dundalk Gaol, and others, with immersive performances and international artists.
- An Chúirt Chruitireachta – International Festival for Irish Harp, Termonfeckin (28 June – 3 July): A prestigious five-day celebration of the Irish harp with workshops, concerts, masterclasses, and cultural events at An Grianán, under the theme of “Ceiliúradh” (celebration), welcoming harpers and enthusiasts.
- Aurfest 26, Bellurgan Park, Dundalk (3–4 July): A vibrant, intimate music, comedy, and arts festival with live acts, camping, street food, and creative performances in a scenic park setting – family-friendly and dog-friendly.
- Boyne Music Festival, Drogheda and surrounding areas (23–26 July): A high-quality chamber music festival with concerts, poetry, workshops, tours, family events, and performances in historic venues including Townley Hall, Slane Castle, and St Peter’s Church of Ireland.
- Other recurring or smaller events include the Táin International Hillwalking Festival (around mid-June), local markets, traditional music sessions, heritage activities during National Heritage Week (mid-August), and community gatherings. Dates can vary slightly; check official sources such as Visit Louth, Louth County Council (Create Louth), or individual festival websites for the latest programmes, tickets, and updates.
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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