Ballina Salmon Festival, Ireland’s longest-running community festival, will return from Sunday, 12th July to Sunday, 19th July 2026. Mark your calendars for a vibrant week-long celebration of culture, heritage, music, food, and community spirit in the heart of Ballina.
Since 1964, the festival has welcomed generations of families, visitors, and locals to enjoy a true taste of North Mayo’s warmth and traditions—and 2026 promises to be another unforgettable year.
Festival Highlights for 2026
Festival favourites are set to make a much-anticipated return:
National Heritage Day – Wednesday, 15th July 2026
One of the most beloved events of the festival, National Heritage Day will once again transform Ballina into a bustling celebration of local history, culture, and craft. Expect colourful displays, traditional music and dance, artisan stalls, reenactments, and storytelling that showcase the proud heritage of North Mayo.
The Moy Swim – Saturday, 18th July 2026
A standout sporting occasion in the festival calendar, the iconic Moy Swim will see swimmers take to the famous River Moy in this iconic challenge—always a crowd favourite.
Alongside these marquee events, visitors can look forward to a packed programme of family activities, live music, arts and cultural showcases, delicious local food experiences, and plenty more special moments to be announced over the coming months.
A Look Back at the 2025 Festival
This year’s Ballina Salmon Festival was a joy-filled celebration that once again highlighted everything that makes our community so special. From live performances to children’s events, street entertainment, and the ever-popular food offerings, the town came alive for an unforgettable week.
One of the standout moments, as always, was Heritage Day. Thousands flocked to the streets to step back in time and experience the traditions, crafts, and stories that make North Mayo unique.
Watch the highlights from Heritage Day 2025:
Plan Your Visit
With its rich history, stunning natural surroundings, and welcoming atmosphere, Ballina is the perfect place to spend a summer week—whether you’re returning after many years or discovering the festival for the first time.
Stay tuned for updates on the 2026 festival programme, ticket information, and event announcements.
Start planning your visit now and get ready to experience the magic of Ballina Salmon Festival 2026!