Festival fever hits Ballina once again
Pictured at the launch of Ballina Salmon Festival 2026 in the Mary Robinson Centre were committee members, including chairperson Mary Dunne; Minister Dara Calleary, Cllr Annie May Reape, Cllr Marie-Thérése Duffy, Cliona Campion President of Ballina Chamber of Commerce; Anna Connor Head of Ballina Municipal District and guests. Picture: John O'Grady
The 62nd Ballina Salmon Festival is taking place in the north Mayo capital over eight days filled with fun and activities as the town celebrates tradition, music, history, heritage and its unrivalled community spirit.
From July 12th to 19th, festival fever will be alive and kicking in Ballina as the town marks over six decades of celebrating one of Ireland’s longest running community-led festivals.
“We’re really looking forward to celebrating this year’s Ballina Salmon Festival,” said committee chairperson Mary Dunne. “We have an excellent lineup of events taking place as part of this year’s festivities with a lot of familiar favourites such as Heritage Day, the Teddy Bears Picnic and Cruinniú na mBád returning once again.
“There is a really good mixture of arts, culture, historical, sporting and musical offerings, really there is something for everyone and events to keep the whole family entertained,” added Mary.
Before the official kick-off, there will be an unforgettable night of Bruce Springsteen’s greatest hits performed by widely acclaimed act ‘Springsteen – A Tribute’ on Saturday, July 11th, at the Ballina Arts Centre. Fronted by Monte Thompson and backed by a seven-piece band, their high-energy show captures the sound and spirit of a live Springsteen show.
On Sunday, July 12th, the Teddy Bears Picnic takes place in Tom Ruane Park on the banks of the Moy. Youngsters are invited to dress up their Teddy in its Sunday best for a fun-filled and magical afternoon with live entertainment, prizes and food for all the family. A special sensory hour takes place from 12.30pm to 1.30pm with gates opening at 2pm.
On Monday, July 13th, the Car Treasure Hunt launches from the Cot & Cobble from 6pm. This unique game has quickly established itself as a festival favourite in recent years; bring a biro, some eagle-eyed passengers and a steady pair of hands behind the wheel for a great Ballina community adventure.
On Tuesday, July 14th, Mayo’s Fittest will be crowned at the Mayo Fit Games at the IQ Centre from 6.30pm while on Wednesday, July 15th, the town will be transported back in time for National Heritage Day. Immerse yourself in an interactive showcase of a market town over 100 years ago, as Ballina celebrates traditional handcrafts and days gone by. There is a prize awarded for the best dressed person on the day.
Cruinniú na mBád (Gathering of the Boats) takes place on Friday, July 17th, from 7pm It is a sight to behold, a wonderful celebration honouring marine heritage, community spirit and festive celebrations in Ballina.
The HeyCo Moy Swim takes place on Saturday, July 18th, before later that night, the Grand Finale Fireworks display will see the week out with a bang.
One of Ireland’s most beloved authors Kate Kerrigan will bring the week to a close with a brilliant night of theatre, humour and storytelling. ‘Am I Irish Yet? – An Evening with Kate Kerrigan' takes place in the Arts Centre from 8pm.
“The festival really makes July the most exciting time of the year in Ballina and we are delighted to be welcoming visitors from near and far to our town for the festivities,” said Mary. “I would like to thank everybody who has played a part in organising the 2026 Ballina Salmon Festival, especially our volunteers. Without their support, none of our events would be possible.”
There are lots more events taking place throughout the week. There are details throughout the Western People’s Ballina Salmon Festival Supplement and be sure to keep an eye on the Salmon Festival’s social media to keep up to date with everything that is happening.
