WHAT’S ON
Celebrate Irish culture, music and community in Athlone this St. Patrick’s weekend.
Athlone, County Westmeath, Ireland
Athlone Croí na hÉireann Festival 2026
The Athlone Croí na hÉireann Festival 2026 will take place from March 13th to March 18th. This exciting festival celebrates Irish culture, music and community in the heart of Athlone. Locals and visitors can enjoy a packed programme of events throughout the week.
First, the festival begins on Friday, March 13th with McFadden’s Funfair in Burgess Park. The Affective Forms Exhibition will also open in Luan Gallery. Later that evening, the U12 Futsal Tournament takes place in the McCormack Centre at TUS.
On Saturday, the celebrations continue with live music, youth performances and cultural events across the town. For example, the COPA youth band will perform under the Canopy on Church Street. In addition, visitors can enjoy a traditional Irish music session in McNeill’s Pub. Musical theatre fans can also attend a special performance in the Dean Crowe Theatre.
Next, Sunday brings family-friendly activities. The day begins with the Family Fun 5K Run at the Athlone Regional Sports Centre. Afterwards, the Athlone Boat Club will host a river safety awareness event. Children can then enjoy a mascot singalong show in the Radisson Hotel. Later, a multicultural event will take place in the Dean Crowe Theatre. The evening will finish with a major Irish music event featuring August Kirwan.
Meanwhile, the funfair and art exhibition continue throughout the festival weekend.
Of course, the highlight of the festival is St. Patrick’s Day on Tuesday, March 17th. The day begins with a community breakfast in Ballynahown. Afterwards, Athlone Community Radio will broadcast live from St. Peter’s Square. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade will then travel through Athlone town centre. Later, visitors can enjoy another live performance from the COPA youth band.
Finally, the festival concludes on Wednesday, March 18th with the show “The Kings of Irish Music” in the Dean Crowe Theatre.
Overall, the Athlone Croí na hÉireann Festival promises six days of music, culture, family fun and community celebration.
