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05 Apr 2026
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05 Apr 2026
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Carlow is set to come alive next week as the Pan Celtic Festival 2026 gets underway, bringing a packed programme of music, culture and entertainment to the town.
Taking place from April 7 to April 11, the festival will see Carlow welcome artists, performers and visitors from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Brittany, Cornwall and the Isle of Man.
For five days and nights, the town will host a celebration of music, language, song, dance and shared heritage, with organisers promising one of the biggest cultural events in Carlow in recent years.
The programme features a wide range of events, beginning with the Official Launch and Opening Concert at the George Bernard Shaw Theatre.
Across the week, audiences can enjoy traditional singing competitions, the Celtic Parade, the Pan Celtic International Song Contest, concerts, céilís, workshops, exhibitions and an extensive fringe programme.
Organisers expect more than 200 free events across multiple venues, offering everything from storytelling and dance workshops to language classes, historic walks and live performances throughout the town.
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Festival Club Nights at the Seven Oaks Hotel will host nightly performances, while the popular Pub Trail will see up to 15 venues filled with live traditional music.
Streetfest will also return with a new Celtic Circus theme, transforming Tullow Street into a hub of colourful performances, family entertainment and outdoor spectacle.
Welcoming the programme, Cllr Ken Murnane said the 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 and showcase everything the area has to offer.
Bríd De Róiste of the organising group said the festival is rooted in "creativity, collaboration and volunteer commitment," adding that the programme reflects the dedication of everyone involved.
With the countdown now on, organisers are encouraging people to plan ahead and get involved in what promises to be a great week for Carlow.
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