'IMBOLC 2026' festival celebrates 10 years of music in Derry

The energy, the warmth, and the renewal of ‘an t-earrach’ (the spring) begins at IMBOLC International Music Festival with an immersive programme that spans from February 1-7 2026 in the city-centre venue of Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin.

Going from strength to strength over the past nine years, there’s a winning formula here that’s worth checking out. Whether you’re interested in the traditional or contemporary, sessions, workshops, or even late-night hip-hop gigs as Gaeilge, read on to find out what’s in store…

The week of activity spans 30+ events, based around a series of nightly concerts. To name but a few, there’s Brian Finnegan and The Hunger of The Skin Band (high-energy contemporary trad), a special collaboration between The Henry Girls and Gazelleband (a Palestinian duo that features the pioneering oud player, Reem Anbar), and Daughters of Ceithleann (a new, women-led trad musical based on Enniskillen’s folklore, held on Lá Fhéile Bríde / Saint Brigid’s Day).

The festival also puts emphasis on participation, with their All Access Trad outreach held in local community centres, instrument workshops led by first-rate players, and of course sessions abound. From the surrounding pubs to the centre’s own café, you’re more than welcome to join in for a tune or two!

The programme is also a treasure trove for Gaeilgeoirí and those looking to learn and practise their cúpla focal (few words), with more than half the acts performing in Irish. This includes a big bilingual céilí with to close the festival, the poems of Seamus Heaney translated into Irish with Hellas Ensemble’s Greek-Irish trad fusion music ensemble in accompaniment, and a family friendly-show led by Gráinne Holland.

Brian Finnegan and The Hunger of The Skin Band

Jack Mac Íomhar, Director of Derry’s premier Irish language and arts centre, shares that: “As usual, this year we have an inclusive and traditional festival. Our programme is packed with performances, workshops, sessions and community events that showcase the breadth and creativity of multi-talented artists. We are forever grateful that they are willing to share their passion and creativity with us.

"We would like to extend a huge thank you to our funders, sponsors, and partners, but in particular the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, supported by the National Lottery funds, and Derry City and Strabane District Council. Their enduring support is vital to bringing the IMBOLC Festival to life.

"The community is always at the heart of the IMBOLC Festival. The festival is backed by a dedicated arts team, supported by volunteers and supporters, who work year-round and deliver an exceptional programme of music and culture. As a result of this work, the festival is a success every year - thank you for your time, dedication and passion.

"To all of you who attend, participate and celebrate with us at IMBOLC, your enthusiasm keeps us inspired. Because of you we can run and grow this wonderful festival. Thank you for joining us during the IMBOLC Festival journey. We wish every success to another vibrant and unforgettable year of music and camaraderie, and look forward to the next 10 years.

"There's a lot to offer at IMBOLC 2026. Join us.

"Get involved, be excited, be challenged, but most importantly, have fun!”

To find out more, you can check out the full programme and book your tickets through their website at www.imbolcfestival.com.

For more information, you can follow the organisation’s social media at @culturlanndoire on Facebook and Instagram. For any further queries, you can contact eolas@culturlann.org, call (+44) 028 7126 4132, or visit the building at 37 Great James’ Street, Derry, BT48 7DF.

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As a city renowned for its hospitality, the festival has partnered with the four-star City Hotel on the riverside, a five minute walk away from Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin. Details on discounted rates are available on the festival website.