TuneFest returns to Waterford with stellar line-up of musicians

Waterford will soon echo with the sound of Ireland’s finest traditional music as TuneFest Dungarvan returns with a stellar line-up of musicians.

RTÉ’s traditional music show will broadcast from Dungarvan Town hall Theatre from June 20th to 22nd, and this year, the celebrations are kicking off in spectacular style.

In a major coup for the West Waterford town, RTÉ’s Céilí House will record the program from Dungarvan Town Hall Theatre on Thursday 29th May to officially launch the 2025 festival and it will broadcast on Saturday 1st June.

The show begins at 7.00pm, with doors open from 6.30pm, and admission is free.

Everyone is welcome to attend and be part of a special night that will shine a national spotlight on Dungarvan and its thriving music scene.

Taking to the stage will be a host of highly respected performers, including: Sarah and Ellen O’Gorman, Niamh and Claire Fennell, Joseph Mannion, Manus Maguire, Ellen McCloskey, Donnchadh Gough, John Nugent, Caoimhín Ó Fearghail, and Brendan Clancy—all contributing to what promises to be an unforgettable evening of music and community celebration.

“This is a moment of huge pride for Dungarvan,” said TuneFest Organiser Donnacha Gough, a long-standing member of Danú, acclaimed bodhrán and uilleann pipes player, and proprietor of popular local gastropub The Local.

“To have Céilí House coming to town to help launch TuneFest is a real honour—not just for the festival but for the whole community. It’s a recognition of the incredible musicians we have here in West Waterford and the love of traditional music that runs deep in the area. I’d really encourage everyone to come out, soak up the atmosphere, and support what’s shaping up to be our biggest and best TuneFest yet.”

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The Céilí House broadcast is the official curtain-raiser for TuneFest Dungarvan 2025, which takes place one month later from June 20th to 22nd. Now in its fifth year, the festival has earned a reputation as a welcoming, authentic celebration of Irish traditional music, drawing talent and audiences from across Ireland and beyond.

This year’s programme features a world-class line-up, including anniversary performances from the legendary Cherish the Ladies (celebrating 40 years) and Danú (marking 30 years), alongside dynamic acts such as Talisk and The Rising. Concerts, outdoor gigs in Grattan Square, pub sessions, workshops, a youth busking competition, and community events all combine to create a weekend of rich musical experiences in a stunning coastal setting.

At its heart, TuneFest is about community, heritage, and the power of live music—and the upcoming Céilí House recording offers locals and visitors alike a chance to witness and be part of that spirit in action.

For more information on TuneFest Dungarvan 2025, including full programme details, workshop bookings, and artist announcements, visit www.tunefest.ie.