Mayo music festival targets €15,000 for two worthy causes

A Mayo music festival that has raised more than €55,000 for charitable causes since its revival is aiming to raise a further €15,000 this year.

The Dooagh Folk Festival has launched its 2026 Charity Raffle ahead of its return to Achill Island from September 11–13, with proceeds going to Rosabel’s Rooms, in partnership with the Irish Hospice Foundation, and St. Colman’s Care Centre CLG on Achill Island.

Fundraising has become a key part of the festival, with the €55,000-plus raised to date made possible through the support of festival-goers, sponsors, volunteers and the wider community.

This year’s raffle features three major prizes, with the first prize offering a trip for two to Nashville, Tennessee.

Festival Director Sean Lynch said fundraising was now an integral part of the festival’s identity.

“The Dooagh Folk Festival has always been about much more than music. It’s about people, community and creating something that leaves a lasting positive impact,” he said.

“Thanks to the incredible generosity of our sponsors, volunteers, festival-goers and everyone who has supported the raffle, we’ve raised more than €55,000 for charity since the festival was revived.”

He said organisers were proud to support the two chosen causes and encouraged people to get behind this year’s raffle.

“Every ticket purchased contributes directly to that fundraising effort, and we’d love to see people across Mayo, Ireland and further afield get behind this year’s raffle.”

The first prize is a trip for two to Nashville, including return flights with Aer Lingus and accommodation.

The second prize offers a unique opportunity to take a VIP scenic flight aboard Iolar, a restored aircraft associated with a landmark moment in Irish aviation history.

The original Iolar operated Aer Lingus’ first flight, from Baldonnel to Bristol, in 1936. The replica has been restored to flying condition as Aer Lingus celebrates its 90th anniversary in 2026.

The third prize is a VIP weekend for two at the 2027 Dooagh Folk Festival, including accommodation at the Achill Cliff House, weekend passes and a Dooagh Folk Festival merchandise package.

The 2026 line-up includes Damien Dempsey, Lúnasa, Dervish, Dan McCabe and the Karan Casey Trio, The Oars and SuperCéilí, alongside Mayo and Achill acts including Des Cafferkey, GráDee & The Achill Lads, The Achill 400 and the Golden Eagle Pipe Band.

The weekend will also feature cultural and community events, including Bodhrán Buzz, Try the Pipes with Na Píobairí Uilleann and a special event remembering the late John ‘Twin’ McNamara.

With Friday’s concert and Saturday’s festival gig already sold out and limited tickets remaining for other events, organisers are hoping the charity raffle will help them reach their €15,000 target.

The raffle launch comes ahead of the third edition of the Dooagh Folk Festival, which takes place from September 11–13.

Raffle tickets and prize information are available through the Dooagh Folk Festival website.