The programme for walking festivals in Ireland for 2026 is being announced with more expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
- Glen of Aherlow Winter Walking Festival (Tipperary); This popular event in the scenic Glen of Aherlow, near the Galtee Mountains, features a range of guided walks from easy strolls to more challenging routes, with options including night walks, lake loops, and mountain paths. It takes place over a weekend at the end of January (typically late January to early February, such as around 30 January to 1 February in recent years). The base is usually Aherlow House Hotel, with buses for transfers and a welcoming community vibe.
- Wander Wild Festival (Killarney, Kerry)Ireland’s great outdoor festival in Killarney National Park combines guided and self-guided walks with wellness activities like forest bathing, kayaking, and climbs towards peaks such as Carrauntoohil. It celebrates nature, adventure, and relaxation. It is held in mid-April (for example, 17–19 April in 2026).
- Connemara Mountain Walking Festival (Leenane, Galway): Set on the edge of Killary Harbour with dramatic mountains and sea views along the Wild Atlantic Way, this festival offers graded guided walks led by experienced leaders and locals. It provides access to private lands, folklore, and breathtaking scenery. It usually occurs over the early May bank holiday weekend (around 1–3 May).
- Ballyhoura Walking Festival (Kilfinane, Limerick): Claimed as Ireland’s oldest walking festival, it explores the beautiful Ballyhoura landscapes with a mix of routes for all abilities, blending hiking with local craic and history. It is a highlight for many walkers and often takes place in summer or early autumn.
- Slieve Bloom Walking Festival (Laois/Offaly): In the heart of Ireland’s midlands, this festival features woodland trails, riverside rambles, and gentle hills over the May bank holiday weekend. It suits a wide range of walkers and highlights the peaceful Slieve Bloom Mountains.
- Carlow Autumn Walking Festival (Carlow): Focusing on the Blackstairs Mountains and River Barrow, it offers mountain treks and woodland walks for beginners to advanced participants. It celebrates the lush scenery of Ireland’s Ancient East and typically runs in September or October.
- Wicklow Walking Festival (Wicklow): In the “Garden of Ireland,” with woodlands, rolling hills, and craggy climbs in the Wicklow Mountains National Park, this festival provides varied guided hikes. It is often held in autumn (around October).
- Other notable mentions include events like the Causeway Coast and Glens Walking Festival (spring,) and various local festivals throughout the year. Ireland’s walking scene is vibrant, with many festivals emphasising community, nature, and enjoyment for all. Always prepare with suitable footwear, weatherproof clothing, and respect for the countryside.
Festivals
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
