The Fleadh is Ireland’s oldest and biggest traditional music contest. Running since 1951, the festival promises lots of craic agus ceol (aka fun and music) for its 250,000-400,000 visitors. You will hear lots of fiddles and flutes, see the Irish dances and much more.
2024 Schedule
On August 6, festival guests can attend Ceiliúradh Music Generation at 3 pm Bardic Awards and Ceiliúradh Music Generation at 7 pm. Who Am I Now, presented by Tranquillity, will held on August 7 at 3 pm. On August 8, there will be an International Showcase Concert at 7 pm, Garadice at 7:30 pm, Cherish The Ladies and Meitheal Concert, and So Say So at 8 pm.
The National Folk Orchestra will perform on August 9 at 8 pm, followed by the Maurice Lennon Trio at 9 pm. John Spillane will entertain the public on August 10 at 8 pm, followed by the RTE Concert Orchestra and Frankie Gavin + De Dannan at 9 pm. The Senior Céilí Band Competition will conclude the festival on August 11 at 8 pm.
Location
The festival changes location almost every year, so keep an eye on the announcements to know where to witness this explosion of Irish culture.
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann History
In the 1950s, some of the biggest names in Irish music decided to hold an event which would promote traditional music of Ireland and reverse decadent trends evident back then in Irish life. It was proposed that best traditional musicians from the four corners of Ireland come together in the town of Mullingar to compete in the music contest. That's how Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann was born. At that time, there were thousands of traditional bands in Ireland, but many felt like their music was entirely unappreciated by the elite.
The festival gave traditional musicians a platform and appreciative audience. Now, it has become a truly international event with participants from all over the world.
