Celebrate 25 years of Trad Fest this January 22nd – January 26th. This 4-day festival is full of live music, traditional instruments, dance and art from popular and upcoming artists all over the country. If you’re looking to throw yourself into rich culture and a bit of craic – then look no further! Trad Fest is all about redefining Irish music with tradition. Whether you’re a native, participant or visitor, this festival is perfect to discover the city.
The Traditional Rundown
The festival commences every January, showcasing the best and emerging musical talent the country has to offer. The festival is homed in the heart of the country’s capital which is rooted in culture and lively atmosphere. The festival is beneficial to all. Not only does it give an opportunity for artists to shine while displaying their love for traditional music and heritage, but it also gives locals and new commers a chance to unlock fun and unique events taking place in the city.
With 30+ venues, 150+ artists and over 100 events there is something for everyone.
The Must -Do Events
Pop Up Trad - Over 3 Days.
The famous GPO is hosting a pop-up trad fest event on the 23rd, 24th, 25th of January. The event explains the history of the Easter 1916 rising that affected the nation. This revolutionary piece of history is accompanied by the harmonious harp played by Rachel Duffy from Bray. She has appeared in festivals all over the world and teaches harp lessons in her home Co. Wicklow. Doors open at 10:45 and the event begins at 11:15am – Right beside Stop 1 on the tour!
Feile Kila - Friday 24th, 8pm
The perfect blend of tradition and global influences – the trad fusion group ‘Kila’ take stage and create a captivating gig. The music group combine Irish (Gaeilge) language with rhythmic melody and traditional instruments such as fiddles, bodhrans, pipes and whistles. The 353 Samba Club – a Brazilian band will be there supporting the cause. The Feile takes place in the National Stadium, a 14-minute walk from Stop 15 (New Market Square).
AbleFest - This Weekend 25th & 26th, 11:45am.
TradFest has teamed up with AbleFest to create a 2-day mini festival to incorporate inclusivity to the celebration. This movement is to ensure that everybody can enjoy what the event has to offer whether that is to enjoy as a bystander or join in as an artist. There is wheelchair accessibility, sensory break areas, along with the usual food, drink and music! This event takes place yet again in the Nation Stadium near Stop 15.
This year the festival has expanded out to other areas such as Howth, Malahide, Clondalkin and Tallaght for those not around the city centre for this period. The festival has grown so large that RTE have created two tv series dedicated to the event – Ireland in Music and The TradFest Sessions, for those that want to take part from home.
Feed two birds with one seed by taking the Hop on Hop off Tour to explore Dublin and hop off at the stops near the TradFest events!
