Tubbercurry Music Festival returns with a stellar line-up

Three nights of live music, dancing and entertainment will bring Tubbercurry to life from Friday, August 28 to Sunday, August 30.

The Tubbercurry Music Festival returns to Sligo, bringing together some of Ireland’s most popular country, folk and live music acts for a lively three-day celebration at Murphy’s Hotel.

Following the tremendous response to the inaugural festival, the 2026 event promises an even bigger weekend of music, dancing, local hospitality and community spirit.

This year’s festival will feature Derek Ryan, David James, Claudia Buckley, Olivia Douglas, All Folk’d Up, Crampsey & Co and rising Irish singer-songwriter Colin Graham.

The weekend will get under way on Friday evening with Colin Graham at 8.30pm, followed by the energetic Crampsey & Co. The opening night will reach a rousing finale with All Folk’d Up. The band’s distinctive combination of traditional Irish music, contemporary folk-rock and high-energy performance is guaranteed to have the crowd on their feet.

Saturday night will see country favourite Olivia Douglas take to the stage at 9.30pm, followed by one of Ireland’s leading country music stars, Derek Ryan. Renowned for his hugely popular catalogue of original songs and outstanding live performances, Derek is expected to draw country music fans from across Sligo, Mayo, Roscommon and further afield.

Before the live performances begin on Saturday, festival-goers will have an opportunity to warm up with Gina Laffey of Twirl with Gina. Based in Foxford, Gina runs her own popular dance lessons every Monday night and will share practical tips on social dancing to help get everyone ready for the dance floor.

The festival will continue on Sunday evening with award-winning country singer Claudia Buckley at 7.30pm, before Donegal’s David James brings the weekend to a memorable close at 9.30pm. David has established himself as one of the most exciting performers on the Irish country music scene and will return to Tubbercurry as the festival’s Sunday night headline act.

Gina Laffey will return on Sunday evening to get the crowd warmed up and offer further social dancing tips before the live music begins.

Sunday night will also feature the North West Jiving Championships, adding an exciting competitive element to the festival programme. The jiving competition will be judged by Gerard Butler and Gina Laffey, with dancers invited to take to the floor and showcase their skills.

Whether they are experienced dancers or simply enjoy an occasional jive, the competition will offer festival-goers another opportunity to get involved in the weekend’s entertainment and enjoy the lively social atmosphere.

Alongside the headline performances, visitors can look forward to a wonderful festival atmosphere throughout Tubbercurry. Local pubs, restaurants, cafés, shops and accommodation providers will be ready to welcome guests with music, dancing, food, refreshments and the renowned hospitality of South Sligo forming an important part of the weekend.

“We were absolutely delighted with the support the festival received in its first year,” said Paul Murphy from Tubbercurry Music Festival. “There was a brilliant atmosphere throughout the weekend, with visitors and local people coming together to enjoy great music and dancing.

“For 2026, we have put together a fantastic line-up featuring some of the best-known names in Irish country and folk music, along with exciting rising talent.

“Whether you are coming for the music, the dancing, the jiving competition or simply a great weekend away, there will be a warm Tubbercurry welcome waiting for you,” said Paul.

The festival is expected to attract visitors from across the North-West and beyond, providing a welcome boost for local businesses while showcasing the town as a vibrant destination for music, culture and entertainment.

Tickets cost €25 per night, with early booking strongly advised. Tubbercurry Music Festival is an over-18s event.

Tickets and further information are available from Tubbercurry Music Festival by phoning 087 418 2193 or emailing booking@tubbercurrymusicfestival.ie.