Pan Celtic festival programme unveiled

WITH only weeks to go before the opening night of the Pan Celtic International Festival on 7 April, organisers have unveiled a preview of the line-up of events that is sure to get everyone up on their feet jigging.

Throughout the week, audiences can expect to enjoy traditional singing competitions, the Celtic parade and the Pan Celtic International Song Contest. Alongside these competitions, there will be a ‘fringe programme’ of storytelling, dance workshops, language classes, conversation circles, multilingual poetry readings, historic walks and exhibitions in multiple venues across Carlow.

The popular afternoon Mic Oscailte at Pembroke Club D’Art is making a comeback, as are the festival club nights in the Seven Oaks Hotel.

Performers will include Charlie McGettigan, Caoimhe and Séamus Ó Flatharta, Welsh harpist Eleri Darkins, enCÓRe female singers, Carlow College of Music, Indeceltic, Cór na nÓg, Carlow Community Choir, Roots in Tune, Timahoe Male Choir and Music Generation Carlow.

Music will also fill the streets and venues through performances by the Army Band of the Defence Forces, St Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band, Killeshin Pipe Band, the Duntally Céilí Band, and daily live sessions at The Exchange, alongside an international busking competition. The festival parade, led by Áine Gallagher, will be a comedy highlight.

Several headline events will be streamed live online, extending the festival’s reach to international audiences.

A new Celtic circus theme will apply to Streetfest 2026 on Tullow Street, which will transform the centre of town into a hub of colourful performances, family entertainment and outdoor spectacle.

There will be a Heineken Pan Celtic pub trail during the week, with up to 15 pubs and venues hosting Celtic bands, musicians and traditional sessions throughout the town. Another addition is lá teaghlaigh (family day) in the Town Hall theatre, which will offer storytelling, circus skills, drumming, singing, yoga and face painting as Gaeilge.

The Pan Celtic International Festival is a five-day long celebration between 7-11 April of shared Celtic music, language, dance and heritage between communities from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Brittany, Cornwall and the Isle of Man. It is organised in association with Carlow Co Council.

Bríd De Róiste of the organising group highlighted the community spirit behind the festival, noting that it is rooted in creativity, collaboration and volunteer commitment. She said the preview programme reflects the dedication of artists, partners and volunteers who are working together to deliver an unforgettable experience.

The organisers encourage residents, businesses and visitors to engage early with the programme and support what is expected to be one of the largest cultural events hosted in Carlow in recent years.

Further programme details, updates and ticket information are available at www.panceltic.ie.