Your Ultimate North Mayo & West Sligo Summer Festivals and Events Guide 2026
Summer is in full swing across North Mayo and West Sligo, with a packed calendar of festivals, fairs, and community events still to come. From heritage celebrations and agricultural shows to music, culture, and coastal festivals, there’s something happening in almost every corner of the region.
Whether you’re planning a day trip, a weekend escape, or simply looking for something new to experience close to home, this guide highlights what’s still to come across the summer season. Keep an eye on the ‘What’s On’ page for full details of upcoming day events that may not be listed here. And if you’d like to add an event, please let us know!
July
- Black Pig Festival, Enniscrone: Thursday 23rd to Monday 27th July
The Black Pig Festival brings you fun family events, a live music marquee by the beach, concerts and sport events. The festival’s opening night brings the famous ‘pig on a spit’ and food fair together with live music and dancing. Then throughout the week, loads of live music alongside many fun family events ranging from yoga to sand castle building to golf competitions. Live music gigs include All Folk’d Up on the 23rd July and Jack Keogh live on the 24th July.
- Crossmolina Agricultural Show: Saturday, 25th July
The Crossmolina Agricultural Show offers a fun-filled family day out with events and stalls for everyone, including various classes of livestock on display. The event will take place at the Community Field (Eircode: F26ED39).
- Erris Agricultural Show: Sunday, 26th July
This year’s Erris Agricultural Show promises a full day of activities for all ages. It features various classes of animals on display, trade stands, and ‘Best Dressed’ competitions. Enjoy great musical entertainment from Declan Nerney on the show grounds.
- Síamsa Sráide’ Swinford Street & Arts Festival: Thursday 30th July to Wednesday, 5th August The Swinford Síamsa Sráide Street Festival returns to celebrate 42 years of street magic, music, theatre, and community spirit in the heart of Swinford. From family fun and cultural showcases to live music and local legends, there’s something for everyone.
August
- Ballycroy Wild West Festival (31st July–2nd August) This festival promises a weekend full of community spirit, music, games and family fun in the heart of Ballycroy. The Ballycroy Wild West Festival kick off on Friday evening. Live Music over the weekend from Johnny Brady, Claudia Buckley and Jack Keogh and more from the Marquee at Cafferkey’s Bar. This year the festival includes a pool competition at Cafferkey’s bar and nominations are now open for Mayor or Mayoress of Ballycroy! Visitors are encouraged to get into the Wild West spirit with boots and hats – it’s set to be a fun-filled weekend for all ages.
- Healyfest: Healy’s Bar Ballycastle: Friday 31st to Monday 3rd August
Gaining near legendary status on the North Coast of Mayo, Healyfest returns once again for the August bank holiday. Featuring acts like Buck Taylor, Crow Black Chicken and Gorilla Radio, Southbound, Bourbon Smoke. Admission and camping are free; just remember to pack your dancing shoes!
- Belderrig Bronze Man: Saturday, 1st August
The ‘Bronze Man’ race in Belderrig Village, Co. Mayo, includes a swim, cycle, and run, and is open to participants aged 16 and over. For more information, visit the Belderrig Bronze Man event page here.
- Bonniconlan Welcome Home Week: Fri. 31st July to Sun. August 9th
Bonniconlon Welcome Home Week is set to coincide with the 75th Anniversary of the Bonniconlan Agricultural Show and is being organised by the Bonniconlan Community Council. More details to follow check here for all updates.
- Bonniconlon Show: Monday, 3rd August
The highly successful Bonniconlon Agricultural Show returns on Monday, August 3rd, 2026. As one of the major events in the region, it draws over 30,000 visitors annually, making it the second biggest agricultural show in Ireland. With a prize fund exceeding €60,000, the show offers a diverse range of events including: a dog show, horse and pony lunging, sheepdog trials, the All-Ireland Calf finals, and the crowning of the Rose of Bonniconlon ‘Queen of the Show.’ There is also the ‘Most Appropriately Dressed Lady’ competition, a heritage and vintage display, live music performances, and a party and disco for children, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy throughout the day.
- Inver Festival: Thursday 6th – Saturday 9th August
Inver Village in the parish of Kilcommon, Erris, welcomes back its charming festival. The Inver Festival 2026 features a multitude of performers alongside kids’ entertainment, sheep & dog shows, and loads more.
- Tubbercurry Old Fair Day Festival, Sligo: Saturday 8th to Wednesday 12th August . The Tubbercurry Old Fair Day Festival runs from Saturday, August 8th, culminating in the highlight of the festival, the Old Fair Day on Wednesday, August 12th. A fun, family-friendly festival for all ages to enjoy every August. It carries on the tradition of the fair days of years past. The showcase event, the Old Fair Day, features a heritage and craft village, artisan stalls, vintage displays, animals, live music, and more, offering a treasure trove of activities showcasing traditions from bygone days.
- Bangor Erris Sheep Fair and Heritage Day: Saturday, 8th August
The Bangor Erris Sheep Fair and Heritage Day will take place again this year in early August. This year promises to be even more exciting with a host of new additions. The fair will feature the buying and selling of livestock, various demonstrations of traditional and modern techniques, and an array of homemade products available for purchase. Visit their Facebook page for more information.
- Western Dive Rally, Kilcummin Pier: 7th – 9th August
The Western Dive Rally 2026 offers an exciting adventure for divers of all levels. It is hosted by the Gráinne Uaile Sub Aqua Club and will take place from the 7th – 9th August 2026. Explore the captivating underwater world off the coast of County Mayo, Ireland, with thrilling wreck dives and encounters with marine life. Guided by experienced instructors, divers of any level can enjoy safe and memorable experiences. Beyond the dives, enjoy camaraderie, social events, and the hospitality of the West of Ireland. Full details and registration are available here.
- Geesala Festival : 8th to 16th August 2026
Experience the vibrant spirit of the Geesala Festival this August in County Mayo, Ireland. Highlights include the Cruinniú na mBád boat racing regatta and the renowned Rásaí na gCapaill horse racing. Enjoy music, live bands, children’s entertainment, food, and a bar. Explore local crafts, culinary delights, and storytelling sessions celebrating the region’s heritage. Full programme still to be launched, keep an eye on www.geesalafestival.com and their Feesala festival Facebook group.
- Belmullet Festival : 9th to 16th August 2026
Belmullet Festival returns from bringing a week of community celebration, family entertainment, culture and festive atmosphere to the heart of Erris. Visitors can look forward to two of the festival’s most popular events, Belmullet Heritage Day on Tuesday 11th August and Lá an Logha (Fair Day) on Saturday 15th August, both showcasing the rich traditions, heritage and community spirit of the region. With live entertainment, family-friendly activities and plenty of opportunities to experience the unique character of Belmullet, the festival remains one of the highlights of the summer calendar along the Wild Atlantic Way. Further details and the full programme will be announced in due course. For updates, visit www.visitbelmullet.ie.
- Killala Live Festival: Wednesday, 12th – Saturday, 16th August
Join the excitement of the Killala Live Festival from August 12th to 16th, 2026. Renowned as one of North Mayo’s premier events, this festival promises live musical entertainment, thrilling activities, and a spectacular grand finale fireworks display on Sunday evening. For updates, check the Killala Live Events Facebook page.
- Lahardane Fair Day: 15th August
Experience one of Mayo North’s oldest traditions at Lahardane Fair Day Festival which is always held on the 15th August annually. With over a century of heritage, this festival celebrates the region’s summer crops and brings families, friends, and neighbours together. Enjoy fun family events, street stalls, auctions, crafts, live music, dance, face painting, a funfair, welly throwing, and more. Visit their Facebook Page for updates and more information.
- Foxford Riverfest: Friday, 21st- Saturday, 22nd August Foxford is set to come alive once again for its 11th annual Riverfest, taking place on Friday evening, 22nd August, and Saturday, 23rd August 2025. Building on over a decade of experience and creativity, this year’s festival promises an unforgettable weekend of music, family entertainment, and community celebration. Check out their Facebook page for more information to follow.
- Swinford Agricultural Show: Sunday, 23rd August
Experience the atmosphere and excitement of the Swinford Agricultural Show on August 23rd, 2026. With something for everyone, enjoy: Home Industries, Photography, Pets Corner, Craft Village, Bonny Baby, Face Painting, Dog Show, Potato Picking/Turf Footing, Cattle, Sheep, and Horse classes, plus Junior classes and other side attractions. Music throughout the day including a performance by Stuart Moyles. The show will take places at Tony Gleeson Farm at Cuillaun, Swinford, just off the main N5 Castlebar road. Eircode : F12 NX86
Past Festivals and Events
June
- Wild Nephin Nature Festival – Wild Nephin National Park and other locations: 5th June -7th
The first-ever Wild Nephin Nature Festival takes place from Friday, June 5th to Sunday, June 7th, 2026, promising a wonderful weekend of family-friendly events and experiences across North Mayo. Taking place in Ballycroy, Letterkeen, Enniscoe, Bangor, and Belmullet, the festival will celebrate the beauty, heritage, culture, and communities surrounding Wild Nephin National Park. Visitors can look forward to guided walks, heritage and craft events, conservation projects, music, community gatherings, and plenty of activities for all ages. It’s set to be a fantastic weekend with something for everyone to enjoy. For more information, see here.
- Focail Chósta Literary Festival- Áras Inis Gluaire Belmullet, 12th – 14th June
Aras Inis Gluaire’s Literary Weekend runs from 12ú–14ú Meitheamh / 12th–14th June. A special weekend celebrating words, stories, creativity, and community by the coast. From inspiring conversations and workshops to literature, language, and connection, Focail Chósta promises a memorable gathering for readers, writers, and lovers of culture alike. Featuring Niall de Búrca, Miriam Mulchay, Michael Harding and John Connell. Contact +353 97 81079 or email [email protected] for more details.
July
- Enniscrone Agricultural & Industrial Show, Sligo: Sunday, 5th July
The annual Enniscrone Agricultural Show offers a fantastic day out for the whole family. It features animal judging events, trade stands, and entertainment . Visitors can also enjoy a variety of food and refreshments, making it a fun and engaging event for all ages.
- North Mayo Summer School of Irish Traditional Music, Song & Sean Nós Dance – Killala: Monday 6th to Friday 10th July
Experience a week of music, song, dance and culture in the historic town of Killala along the Wild Atlantic Way. The North Mayo Summer School of Irish Traditional Music, Song & Sean Nós Dance welcomes participants of all ages and abilities, from complete beginners to experienced musicians looking to develop their skills and immerse themselves in traditional Irish culture. Learn from expert tutors in a friendly and supportive environment while enjoying inspiring classes, memorable sessions and the rich musical heritage of North Mayo. Whether you are interested in traditional music, singing, Sean Nós dance or simply soaking up the atmosphere, this unique summer school offers something for everyone. For more information contact Deirdre on (087) 941 6055 or Maureen on (087) 941 9741, or visit the North Mayo Summer School Facebook page.
- Mary Robinson Climate Conference 2026: Thurs 9th & Fri 10th July
The annual Mary Robinson Conference returnsto Ballina once again this year under the theme of ‘Food and Care : A Meitheal of Our Time’. Along with key note speakers there will also be a Farmers Market this year in Ballina at St Marys Secondary School for everyone to enjoy. More details are available here. - Ballina Salmon Festival 2026: Saturday, 12th – 19th July
Ballina Salmon Festival, the longest-running community festival along the Wild Atlantic Way. It is inspired by Ballina’s crown jewel, the River Moy, returns for its 61st year! Officially dubbed the ‘Salmon Capital of Ireland,’ Ballina will host some exciting highlights for the 2026 festival, including: The River Moy Swim, Teddy Bears’ Picnic, and the iconic Ballina Salmon Festival Heritage Day on Wednesday, 15th July. As always, the festival will be rounded off by a spectacular fireworks display on Saturday 18th, along the two bridges and banks of the river Moy. This year’s Ballina Salmon Festival promises a memorable seven days of celebration from the 12th –19th July 2026.
- Ballina Agricultural Show: Sunday, 12th July
The Ballina Agricultural Show returns to Ballina Showgrounds on Sunday, July 12th, 2026. This event promises a full day of activities and entertainment for the entire family. It includes live entertainment by Patrick Feeney, cattle and dog shows, horse and pony jumping, and showcasing. Additionally, there will be lifestyle events such as cookery demonstrations, craft displays, and bakery exhibits, along with plenty of entertainment for kids. It’s set to be a fantastic day with something for everyone!
As more festivals and events are added to the calendar, they will be put on our What’s On page so be sure to check back.
If you know of any festivals and events in North Mayo that are not listed above, please let us know. Email: [email protected] so we can spread the word.
Also, please remember that all these festivals and events depend on your support, both in terms of attendance and volunteering. Please consider helping in any way possible to ensure their success.
