The South Galway Bay Music Festival is gearing up for its biggest celebration yet as it marks its fifth anniversary from July 10th to 12th, 2026, at Ballinderreen GAA Grounds, Co. Galway.
What began as a local event inspired by Ballinderreen’s rich showband heritage has grown into one of the West of Ireland’s most anticipated summer music festivals.
Over the past five years, the festival has built a reputation for delivering outstanding live entertainment, a welcoming atmosphere and unforgettable memories for music fans of all ages.
To celebrate this milestone year, organisers have unveiled exciting new additions that promise to make the 2026 event bigger and better than ever. A brand-new Big Top arena will provide a fully covered entertainment space, ensuring festivalgoers can enjoy every performance in comfort while preserving the vibrant energy and community spirit that has become synonymous with the festival.
The stellar three-day line-up features some of Ireland’s most popular live acts. Friday night welcomes Hermitage Green, Pa Sheehy, Amazing Apples and Mick & Flick.
Saturday’s programme includes crowd favourites The Tumbling Paddies, Derek Warfield & The Young Wolfe Tones and Jack Reilly. The festival concludes on Sunday with SPRINGSTEEN – A Tribute, Claudia Buckley & Band and Clodagh Lawlor.
Adding to the weekend experience, comedian and social media sensation Julie Burke, known online as @JulesRulesIRL, will host and MC on Friday and Sunday, bringing her trademark humour and charm to the festival stage.
Festivalgoers can also enjoy an expanded food village featuring returning favourites Bartolini Wood-Fired Pizza and Crepe Delights, alongside exciting new vendors including Turn & Tender and The Wanderly Wagyu Wagon.
Dedicated bus services from Galway City, Oranmore, Kinvara and Gort on Friday and Saturday nights will make travelling to and from the festival easier than ever.
With expanded bars, enhanced facilities and a fantastic line-up of music and entertainment, the South Galway Bay Music Festival’s fifth anniversary promises to be its most memorable year yet.
For tickets, bus information and festival details, visit www.southgalwaybaymusicfestival.ie
