Preview programme of Pan Celtic Festival 2026 to be held in Carlow officially unveiled

Carlow is preparing to welcome the Celtic world this April, as organisers have officially unveiled the preview programme for the Pan Celtic Festival 2026.

Taking place from April 7-11, the town will host artists, performers and visitors from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Brittany, Cornwall and the Isle of Man. This is all in a celebration of music, language, song, dance and shared heritage. Organised in association with Carlow County Council, the festival aims to promote Celtic culture and languages while positioning the county 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. 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 also.

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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 five days and nights, 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. Comedy highlights include the festival parade led by Áine Gallagher.

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 spectacles.

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.

Welcoming the launch of the preview programme, Cllr Ken Murnane, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, said that the Pan Celtic Festival is a hugely important event for Carlow, celebrating cultural heritage while delivering significant social and economic benefits to the town and county. He added that Carlow is proud to welcome visitors from across the Celtic nations in 2026 and to showcase everything the area has to offer.

Bríd De Róiste of the organising group highlighted the community spirit behind the festival, noting that it is rooted in creativity, collaboration and volunteer commitment. She said the preview programme reflects the dedication of artists, partners and volunteers who are working together to deliver an unforgettable experience.

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.