Castletown Festival 2026 to ‘bring everyone home’ from July 31 to August 3

Castletown Festival 2026 to ‘bring everyone home’ from July 31 to August 3

‘The weekend that brings everyone home’, Castletown Festival returns for 2026 with a packed lineup from Friday, July 31 to Monday, August 3

For one special weekend each year, Castletown becomes the heart of a community that stretches far beyond its rural boundaries.

While many villages have a shop, pub or church as a focal point, Castletown has none of these.

Instead, it has something equally valuable – a strong sense of community and a festival that continues to bring people home year after year.

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The annual Castletown Festival has become much more than a weekend of entertainment. For many people who grew up in the area but now live elsewhere, it provides the perfect opportunity to return home, catch up with old friends and reconnect with neighbours and family members.

This year’s lineup features some fantastic acts across the weekend, including Friday, July 31 – Nathan Maher & All Folk’d Up with support from DJ Paul Fitz & Sax; Saturday, August 1 – The Rising, Super Ceili, and Trisco; Sunday, August 2 – Rian Lynch, Up In Smoke, One For The Road, and Trisco; Monday, August 3 – Jimmy Buckley with DJ Richie.

Organisers said, “Expect great music, festival vibes, and an amazing atmosphere in Castletown as we celebrate another incredible weekend together.”

In an age where people are spread across Ireland and beyond, the festival serves as an important reminder of the connections that bind the community together. It is often the one weekend of the year when so many familiar faces gather in the same place, making it a true homecoming celebration.

“No matter where life takes you, Castletown will always be home. The festival gives people a chance to come back, see old friends and feel part of the community again.”

The festival gained national and international attention a few years ago when footage of its famous Donkey Derby went viral online. The light-hearted race captured imaginations around the world and introduced thousands of people to the unique charm and character of this small corner of County Limerick.

While the Donkey Derby may have put Castletown on the map, locals know the real success of the festival lies in its ability to bring people together.

“The viral video put Castletown on the map, but the real magic of the festival is the community spirit behind it.”

This year’s festival once again delivers a fantastic programme of entertainment.

Music lovers were treated to performances from some of Ireland’s most popular acts, including country music star Jimmy Buckley, crowd favourites One For The Road and energetic folk group All Folk’d Up. Their performances helped create a lively atmosphere throughout the weekend, with plenty of singing, dancing and celebrations enjoyed by festival-goers of all ages.

Alongside the music, the Family Fun Day proved hugely popular, providing entertainment for children and families with games, activities and attractions that ensured there was something for everyone to enjoy.

The festival also continues to play an important role in supporting local causes. Funds raised throughout the weekend help support Ballyagran National School, ensuring the event gives back to the wider community while creating lasting memories for those who attend.

A local resident summed up what makes the festival so special. They said “With no shop, pub or church in the village, the festival is one of the few opportunities each year when so many people gather in the one place. That’s what makes it so special.”

Organised by a dedicated team of volunteers, the Castletown Festival remains a shining example of community spirit in action. For residents, former residents and visitors alike, it is more than just an event. It is a celebration of friendship, local pride and the enduring connections that make Castletown such a special place to call home.