Tonnta, Galway’s Irish-language and bilingual festival created by Gaillimh le Gaeilge, has unveiled its full programme from today January 29 to February 1, 2026, promising four days of music, creativity, wellness, and community celebration across the city and beyond. With 24 events taking place in 15 venues, including 14 free events, the festival celebrates the Irish language as a living, inclusive, and creative part of Galway life.
Open to fluent speakers, learners, and first-time participants, Tonnta 2026 offers a diverse programme of concerts, workshops, storytelling, late-night events, and family-friendly activities, all delivered through Irish or bilingually.
This year’s headline acts place music and bilingual creativity firmly at the heart of the festival. Imelda May will appear at the Black Box Theatre on Friday, January 30 at 8pm with Raised on Songs & Stories, a stripped-back, intimate performance blending acoustic music, poetry, and storytelling. The show accompanies her 2026 television series Amhráin na nGael, which explores Ireland’s musical heritage and the Irish language.
Also headlining is Tionscadal Taylor Swift: Sreang Dhofheicthe, a bold bilingual reimagining of Taylor Swift’s folklore and evermore, presented in partnership with IMRAM at the Town Hall Theatre on Saturday, January 31. Performed by Róisín Seoighe x IMLÉ with special guest Jessie Dingle, the production combines song, poetry, translation, and striking visuals.
Late-night highlights include a Lá Fhéile Bríde celebration at the Mick Lally Theatre on Friday night, featuring Belfast group Huartan, followed by a high-energy set from Trad Rave, transforming traditional music into an immersive club experience inspired by ritual and renewal.
Other musical highlights include Pádraig Jack & Friends at An Taibhdhearc on Thursday, January 29, alongside a packed programme of workshops, women’s trad sessions, bilingual cabaret, and family events.
Tonnta also strengthens connections between Galway city and the Gaeltacht with Turas Chonamara, a bilingual wellness experience in partnership with Údarás na Gaeltachta, featuring sauna, sea swimming, seaweed foraging, and artistic experiences in the Connemara landscape.
Speaking about the festival, Bríd Ní Chonghóile, CEO of Gaillimh le Gaeilge, said the festival invites everyone to celebrate Galway as a truly bilingual city, whether fluent, learning, or simply curious.
Tonnta is supported by Galway City Council, Foras na Gaeilge, Údarás na Gaeltachta, and a range of community and cultural partners. Full programme details and tickets are available at tonnta.eu, with updates on social media via @tonnta26.
