The historic heritage town of Lismore is preparing to welcome thousands of musicians, singers, dancers and visitors for Fleadh Cheoil na Mumhan 2026, taking place from Saturday, 11th July to Saturday, 18th July.
Hosted by Ballyduff/Ballinvella/Ballysaggart Comhaltas, the week-long festival promises a vibrant celebration of traditional Irish music, song, dance and culture, with a packed programme of competitions, concerts, sessions and community events.
The celebrations begin on Saturday, 11th July, with Aifreann na Fleidhe at St Carthage’s Church, followed by the official opening at Lismore Heritage Centre. The opening day culminates with the eagerly anticipated Céilí Mór in St Michael’s Hall, Ballyduff Upper, where dancers will gather for a memorable night of music and céilí dancing.
A major cultural highlight follows on Sunday, 12th July, when Professor Pádraig Ó Macháin of UCC presents ‘The Book of Lismore’ at St Cartridges Cathedral Lismore. This special presentation celebrates one of Ireland’s most important medieval manuscripts and its enduring connection with Lismore. Earlier that afternoon, Ballyduff/Ballinvella/Ballysaggart Comhaltas will bring music to residents of St Carthage’s Nursing Home with a special Community Fleadh performance.
The programme continues with the popular Fleadh Singers’ Night on Monday, while Tuesday, 14th July features a lively Pop-Up Gaeltacht at The Red House, offering an informal opportunity for Irish speakers and learners to come together in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Competition action begins on Wednesday, 15th July, with Munster dancing competitions and Gaeilge Abú activities. That evening, The Old School House, Ballysaggart hosts a special celebration marking the 75th Anniversary of Comhaltas entitled ‘Songs & Singers from Ballysaggart’, featuring presentations by Professor Tríona Ní Shiocháin (University of Galway), Dr Ciarán Ó Gealbháin (UCC) and Séamas Ó hAoláin of Ballyduff/Ballinvella/Ballysaggart Comhaltas. Pub Fleadh Sessions also get underway on Wednesday evening and continue throughout the remainder of the festival, filling Lismore with traditional music each night.
Another major highlight comes on Thursday, 16th July, with the Seán Ó Sé Commemorative Concert in St Carthage’s Cathedral. Featuring Turcán, The Last Note Choir, Cór Fear na nDéise and Joseph Creedon, the concert promises to be one of the standout events of the week, celebrating the remarkable contribution of the legendary singer to Ireland’s musical heritage.
Competitions continue on Friday and Saturday alongside community walking tours, local Comhaltas trad sessions, the Lismore Experience History Show, Lismore Farmers’ Market, Gig Rig entertainment and a host of family-friendly events, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy throughout the week.
The full programme of events, competition timetables and festival updates are available on the official Munster Fleadh website and social media channels.
For further information, visit www.munsterfleadh.ie, follow Fleadh Cheoil na Mumhan on Facebook, or contact Thomas Hyland on 086-8208242 for bookings.
