Horticulturalists and climate experts across the country will flock to Laois this May for a fantastic weekend of discussions and gardening.

The stunning Ballintubbert House near Stradbally will open its doors to Laois locals this May, promising an exceptional range of speakers. The event boasts a vibrant weekend of gardening, food and art with a focus on sustainability.

This year's festival will see celebrity chef Rory O'Connell return to his Laois roots, along with fellow speakers Dan Pearson, Dominic West, Sarah Raven and Thomasina Miers.

Pictured: Ballintubbert House

This is the third year of Ballintubbert's Festival of Garden and Nature, set across 14 acres of beautifully restored organic gardens.

The festival has quickly established itself as a must-attend event in Ireland’s cultural and horticultural calendar. With its relaxed atmosphere and inspiring programme, it continues to grow as a gathering place for garden lovers, creatives and curious minds. 

Other speakers this year include Anja Murray, Catherine FitzGerald, Tom Coward, Jo Thompson, Kitty Scully, Cúan Greene, Alannah Weston, Adam Nicolson, John Anderson, Jimi Blake, Katy Merrington, Mick Kelly, Mary Keen, Isabel Bannerman and Brendan Dunford.

"The weekend’s programme reflects the richness and diversity of the natural world," organisers said.

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"Topics will range from big-picture discussions such as 'Trees for the Future', 'Land Restoration', 'Rethinking Beauty in Nature', and 'Horticulture as Social Enterprise', to more specialised explorations including plant symbiosis, roses, and planting combinations.

Pictured: Darina Allen speaks in the Pavillion at last year's festival

Returning by popular demand, the festival’s “How To…” Stage expands this year with practical, hands-on sessions designed for all levels. Highlights include growing exceptional cut flowers with Sarah Raven, soil health with Klaus Laitenberger, Medicinal herbs with Helen Begadon and live cooking demonstrations with Thomasina Miers.

"Under elegant canvas installations, visitors can explore the retail offering featuring sustainably sourced homeware, clothing, antiques, tools, architectural salvage and art," representatives said.

Adams Auctioneers will also showcase garden pieces ahead of an upcoming specialist auction.

The festival will boast a wide variety of food for attendees, featuring Julia’s Lobster Truck, Ballymaloe pre-ordered picnics by Sinéad Gorman, Bambino Pizza making its festival debut, Neighbourhood Coffee and Daily Dose from Abbeyleix, serving gluten-free baked goods and speciality coffee.

"The Festival of Gardens and Nature 2026 offers a rich and immersive experience designed to nourish mind, body and spirit. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or simply seeking inspiration, visitors will leave feeling energised, informed and deeply connected to the natural world," organisers said.

Tickets for this year's festival are on sale now. Weekend tickets are priced at €170. A day ticket for Saturday is €120 and a day ticket for Sunday is €75.

See pictures of the 2025 Ballintubbert's Festival of Garden and Nature here.

For more information and to purchase a ticket, see Ballintubbert.com. 

This is the festival's third year to take place, and it will run from Saturday May 2 to Sunday May 3.