Pan Celtic programme unveiled as Carlow prepares to welcome multiple nations to town

Carlow is preparing to welcome the Celtic world this April, as organisers have unveiled the preview programme for the Pan Celtic Festival 2026, which will take place from 7th to 11th April.

For five days and nights, the town will host artists, performers, and visitors from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Brittany, Cornwall, and the Isle of Man in a celebration of music, language, song, dance, and shared heritage.

Organised in association with Carlow County Council, the festival aims to promote and strengthen Celtic culture and languages while positioning Carlow as a leading destination for major cultural gatherings.

The preview programme outlines a vibrant and wide-ranging schedule of events, beginning with the Official Launch and Opening Concert at the George Bernard Shaw Theatre.

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Throughout the week, audiences can enjoy traditional singing competitions, the Celtic Parade, the Pan Celtic International Song Contest, family-friendly events, concerts, céilís, workshops, exhibitions, and an extensive fringe programme.

Festival Club Nights at the Seven Oaks Hotel will provide nightly opportunities for informal performances and cultural exchange.

Several headline events will be streamed live online, extending the festival’s reach to international audiences.

Organisers expect more than 200 free events across multiple venues, offering opportunities to experience storytelling, dance workshops, language classes, conversation circles, multilingual poetry readings, historic walks, exhibitions, and the popular afternoon Mic Oscailte at Pembroke Club D’Art.

A strong line-up of performers will feature throughout the week, including Charlie McGettigan, Caoimhe and Séamus Ó Flatharta, Welsh harpist Eleri Darkins, enCÓRe female singers, Carlow College of Music, Indeceltic, Cór na nÓg, Carlow Community Choir, Roots in Tune, Timahoe Male Choir, and Music Generation Carlow. Music will also fill the streets and venues through performances by The Army Band of the Defence Forces, St. Patrick’s Brass & Reed Band, The Killeshin Pipe Band, the Duntally Céilí Band, and daily live sessions at The Exchange, alongside an international busking competition.

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Community participation remains central to the festival, with local choirs, schools, music groups, and cultural organisations contributing across the programme.

Streetfest will return in 2026 with a new Celtic Circus theme, transforming Tullow Street and surrounding areas into a hub of colourful performances, family entertainment, and outdoor spectacle.

One of the major highlights of the 2026 festival will be the Heineken Pan Celtic Pub Trail, with up to 15 pubs and venues hosting Celtic bands, musicians, and traditional sessions throughout the town.

Another popular addition is Lá Teaghlaigh (Family Day) in the Town Hall Theatre, offering a wide range of activities as Gaeilge, including storytelling, circus skills, drumming, singing, yoga, and face painting.

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With just weeks to go before the festival begins, organisers are encouraging residents, businesses, and visitors to engage early with the programme and support what is expected to be one of the largest cultural events hosted in Carlow in recent years.

Further programme details, updates, and ticket information are available at www.panceltic.ie