Boyle Arts Festival, 17 to 26 July, will transform the town of Boyle, County Roscommon, into a hub of cultural activity, offering a ten-day programme of music, visual arts, drama, comedy, and family-oriented events. Now in its 38th year, the festival, set against the backdrop of the Curlew Mountains and Lough Key, attracts visitors from across Ireland and beyond. Supported by The Arts Council, Roscommon County Council, and local sponsors, the event showcases a blend of local and international talent, fostering community engagement through accessible and varied performances.
The festival opens on 17 July with a concert titled ‘Songs About Love’ at St. Joseph’s Hall, featuring young performers from Music Generation Roscommon. Visitors can expect a rich lineup, including The Irish Tenors on 24 July, marking their 25th anniversary with Celtic classics, and The Fureys on 25 July, performing hits like “When You Were Sweet 16” ahead of their farewell tour in 2026. The festival closes on 26 July with a performance by ska band Bad Manners, led by Buster Bloodvessel, delivering energetic renditions of songs like “Lip Up Fatty.
Comedy fans will enjoy Jarlath Regan’s stand-up show ‘In Bits’ on 24 July, while music enthusiasts can experience Karma Police, a Radiohead tribute band, performing tracks like “Creep.
The centrepiece is the ‘Visual Presence’ exhibition at King House, curated by Paul McKenna, featuring over 100 artists from across Ireland. Free events, such as a Family Day, children’s costuming and percussion workshops, and a drama piece, ‘Odras & the River Boyle,’ ensure inclusivity. Literary readings, including an interview with author Dawn O’Porter by Bryan Dobson, and creative workshops, like Martin Heron’s school art project, add depth to the programme.
The Boyle Arts Festival traces its origins to 1983, when a group of local artists and community members launched the Cé Arts Festival to showcase visual arts. By 1985, it had evolved into Boyle Arts Week, expanding to include music, street theatre, and drama while maintaining a focus on local talent. This growth, driven by a vision to celebrate Roscommon’s cultural heritage, established the festival as a cornerstone of the region’s summer calendar. The founding committee, though not individually named in records, worked with Roscommon County Council to create an event that would draw visitors and support local artists. Over the decades, the festival has grown, incorporating diverse art forms and earning recognition for its contribution to the local economy.
The current Artistic Director, Brendan McGowan, oversees the festival’s programming, ensuring a balance of high-profile acts and community-focused initiatives. Under McGowan’s leadership, the festival has embraced digital platforms, with a relaunched website in 2024 enhancing accessibility and ticket sales. The event remains rooted in Boyle’s historic venues, such as King House, a restored 18th-century manor, and local galleries, fostering a sense of place. Visitors can expect a welcoming atmosphere, with performances across venues like St. Joseph’s Church and the Pleasure Grounds, complemented by the town’s proximity to Lough Key Forest Park. The festival’s blend of ticketed and free events, alongside its scenic setting, makes it an accessible celebration of art and community.
