North Mayo town set to come alive for Fleadh Cheoil

Ballina is set to come alive with the sound of music, song and dance as Fleadh Cheoil Mhaigh Eo 2026 is set to take place this May.

From May 2 to 10, Gort na mBó will host performers and visitors from across Mayo and beyond for a week-long celebration of traditional Irish culture.

This year’s Fleadh will offer a platform for performers of all ages to showcase their abilities and compete for progression to Connacht and All-Ireland level.

Competitions remain central to the Fleadh, with dancing and sean-nós competitions taking place on Bank Holiday Monday, May 4 at Ballina Arts Centre. Music competitions are also scheduled for Saturday, May 9 and Sunday, May 10 at St Mary’s Secondary School, Ballina.

Other highlights include outdoor performances at Market Square Plaza over the opening weekend, a launch concert at Ballina Arts Centre on May 2, and a staging of ‘Let Justice Rise Though Heavens Fall - The Story of Michael Davitt’ on May 3.

The Fleadh coincides with what is expected to be a particularly busy May Bank Holiday weekend in Ballina. The West of Ireland Women’s Mini Marathon will take place on Sunday, May 3, while Mayo Day celebrations will take place on May 2. 

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Michael O’Donnell, Chairperson of Bofield CCÉ and the Mayo Fleadh Committee, said the town has a long-standing connection with traditional music. 

“Ballina has long been associated with a strong tradition of Irish music, and we are delighted to welcome performers and visitors from across Mayo and beyond. 

“The Fleadh is about bringing people together, celebrating our culture, and creating opportunities for the next generation of musicians to shine,” he added.

Mairéad Melody Carr, Manager of Mayo North Tourism, said the event comes at an important time for the region.

“With so much happening across the May Bank Holiday weekend and beyond, the Fleadh presents a great opportunity for Ballina and North Mayo. It will attract visitors, support local businesses and showcase the energy and hospitality of the region.”

An official launch for Fleadh Cheoil Mhaigh Eo 2026 will take place on Thursday, April 2, at 6 pm in the Jackie Clarke Collection, Ballina. Those wishing to attend are asked to RSVP in advance to clarkecollection@mayococo.ie. 

Further information is available at mayocomhaltas.weebly.com and on social media via Mayo Fleadh and Bofield CCÉ.

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