Féile Liam O’Flynn returns to Kildare

THE TIME has come again for fifth annual Féile Liam O’Flynn, as the 2026 festival officially launched on Thursday, 3 September at 8pm in Fletchers Pub, Naas.

This year’s launch was an unforgettable evening of music, conversation and celebration in honour of one of Ireland’s most iconic cultural figures, Liam O’Flynn.

The festival was delighted to welcome an exceptional line up of special guests for the launch event. Colm O’Mongáin, journalist and broadcaster, joined the evening to reflect on Liam O’Flynn’s legacy and the enduring influence of traditional arts in Irish life. Celebrated Kildare musician Brian Hughes performed as guest musician, bringing his renowned whistle and uilleann pipe performances to the intimate gathering.

The evening also featured performances from legendary singer Kevin Conneff of The Chieftains, and Felim Mac Donnacha, three time All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann winner in Senior Irish Singing. The launch set the tone for a festival rooted in community, creativity and the living tradition Liam O’Flynn championed throughout his life.

Féile Liam O’Flynn 2026 takes place from Thursday 1 October to Sunday, 4 October, with a rich programme of concerts, workshops, talks and family-friendly events across Naas and Kill. The festival continues its mission to celebrate Liam’s artistry, his contribution to Irish music, and the generations of musicians inspired by his work.

Highlights of this year’s festival include The Mulcahy Family who start the celebrations on Thursday, 1 October at The Stores in 33 South Main in Naas.

The McCarthy Sisters & Kildare Youth Traditional Orchestra will then perform at St David’s Church in Naas on Friday, 2 October.

On Saturday, 3 October The Dublin Trio with Kevin Conneff will feature in The Dewdrop in Kill and The Bonny Men will play in The Moat Theatre.

On Sunday, 4 October highlights include Michéal MacDara Ó Raghallaigh and Danny O’Mahony, TG4 Gradam Lifetime Achievement Award Winner 2026 Mickey Dunne in Kill and Martin Hayes will conclude this year’s festival in concert at The Moat Theatre.

Committee Chairperson Mary Ryan shared her excitement ahead of this year’s festival at the launch:

“We are honoured to welcome local TDs and councillors, Liam’s wife Jane, Colm O’Mongáin, Brian Hughes, Kevin Coneff and Felim Mac Donnacha to open this year’s Féile Liam O’Flynn.

“Each of our performers and speakers brings a unique connection to the tradition Liam loved so deeply. We are looking forward to a great festival this year with a range of great performances and workshops for everyone to enjoy.” 

Tickets for Féile Liam O’Flynn 2026 are available now via the Moat Theatre at www.moattheatre.com Full festival details are available at www.feileliamoflynn.com