Ballina Fringe Festival returns this autumn for its 9th festival season, bringing ten days of visual art, theatre, film, literature, live music, community events and youth programming to Ballina from Friday 2nd to Sunday 11th October 2026.
This year’s festival is centred around the theme of RESILIENCE – exploring identity, community and the enduring power of culture to bring people together.
A highlight of the opening weekend is Borderline, a striking site-specific installation by Belfast-based Japanese artist Shiro Masuyama. Transforming a caravan into an evolving museum of Irish and British culture, Masuyama has filled its interior with everyday objects and traces of countless conversations, creating a fascinating reflection on shared culture and identity.
The caravan will be open to visitors free of charge throughout the day from Friday 2nd to Sunday 4th October at Military Barracks Square. Visitors are invited to simply step inside and experience the installation for themselves.
The festival closes on Sunday 11th October with a special double bill at Ballina Arts Centre celebrating a much-loved chapter in the town’s sporting history.
The evening opens with The Glory Days, a short film by Andy Smyth capturing the real-life magic of the 1990s golden era of Irish basketball, followed by a live staged reading of The Boys of ’91, a brand-new play by Niamh McGrath, directed by Veronica Coburn.
The play tells the incredible true story of Connacht Gold Ballina’s historic 1991 National Cup victory, marking 35 years since the famous win. Warm, funny and rooted in Ballina’s identity, it promises an evening of community, local pride and great storytelling. More details about play here. Tickets are on sale now at Eventbrite.ie.
Across the ten-day festival, visitors can also enjoy exhibitions and artist talks, workshops, literature events, live music and the Ballina Short Film Festival, alongside a Youth Fringe Festival curated and staged by young people.
Another much-loved highlight is Ballina Global Kitchen, celebrating the rich mix of international cultures and communities that make Ballina such a vibrant and welcoming town.
Mairéad Melody Carr, Manager of Mayo North Tourism, said:
“Festivals like Ballina Fringe are so important to our town and our wider destination. They bring people together, create opportunities for artists and performers, and showcase the creativity, community spirit and unique character of Ballina. We warmly encourage everyone, locals and visitors alike, to come out, explore the programme and experience what Ballina Fringe has to offer. Congratulations to the hardworking committee and volunteers whose dedication makes this wonderful festival possible.”
With a diverse programme taking place throughout the town, Ballina Fringe Festival offers a wonderful opportunity to experience Ballina through art, culture, creativity and community this October.
For the full programme, venue information and tickets, visit: https://ballinafringefestival.ie/