Thursday 15th – Sunday 18th October | Foxford, Co. Mayo
The heart and soul of Irish tradition comes alive this October as Foxford Traditional Weekend returns with four days of music, song, dance, and storytelling. With over 45 events across the town, the festival offers something for everyone – from lively sessions and family-friendly workshops to masterclasses, concerts and international performances.
Festival Highlights
Holding the Story & Rambling House (Thursday, 15th Oct)
The weekend gets underway with Holding the Story: A Storytelling Project from Mayo, followed by the much-loved Rambling House at the Moy Hotel, an evening of stories, music and song.
Opening & Féile Concert (Friday, 16th Oct)
The official opening and Féile Concert at the Moy Hotel features the reunion of Mayo traditional music favourites Céide, alongside Jillian O’Malley and Glór na Sí. The evening will also see the launch of Jillian O’Malley’s new album.
Music Workshops & Masterclasses (Saturday, 17th Oct)
Learn from experienced traditional musicians across a wide range of workshops and masterclasses, including fiddle, flute, concertina, accordion, banjo, tin whistle, harp and traditional singing. Tutors include Ryan Molloy, David Doocey, Aileen Bourke, Stephen Doherty, Brian Scahill, Tom Doherty, Marianne Knight and Caoimhe Ní Fhlatharta.
National Harp Day (Saturday, 17th Oct)
Foxford joins in the celebrations for National Harp Day with a Harp Ensemble recital at Foxford Woollen Mill, along with a free Hands on Harp taster session, giving visitors the chance to try Ireland’s national instrument.
Saturday Evening Concerts (Saturday, 17th Oct)
Enjoy an evening performance from Séamus and Caoimhe Uí Fhlatharta with Ryan Molloy at Foxford Convent Church, followed by a special international concert at the Moy Hotel celebrating the musical traditions of Ireland, Brittany and the Basque Country. Featuring Cúas, Xabi Aburruzaga, Marie Le Cam and Niamh Ní Charra.
Trad for Tots & Junior Session (Sunday, 18th Oct)
Younger festival-goers can enjoy Trad for Tots, while the Junior Session gives young musicians, singers and dancers the opportunity to take to the stage and share their talents.
Mummers Parade (Sunday, 18th Oct)
A colourful Foxford tradition returns on Sunday evening. Join a traditional straw hat-making workshop with Edwina Guckian before the Mummers make their way from Foxford National School towards Main Street.
Session Trail (All Weekend)
The music continues throughout the weekend as local pubs and venues host lively traditional music sessions. Musicians and listeners alike are welcome to join in and experience the atmosphere of a traditional Foxford session.
A Festival for Everyone
From storytelling and traditional music workshops to family events, international performances, dancing and late-night sessions, Foxford Traditional Weekend is a celebration of Irish culture, community and the living traditions that continue to bring people together.
For full programme details, tickets, and workshop booking, visit the festival website HERE.
