Féile Fearann Rí Returns to Cork’s Northside With Four Days of Traditional Music and Community Events

Féile Fearann Rí, a vibrant celebration of traditional and folk music, is set to return to Cork City’s northside for its fourth year, running from Wednesday 25 March to Saturday 28 March.

This year’s festival welcomes fearless fiddler Clare Sands as special guest artist, with a packed programme of workshops, rehearsals, concerts, recitals, sessions and storytelling events taking place across key community venues in Cork City.

Each year, Féile Fearann Rí brings together young traditional musicians from local schools alongside adult community groups, including Club Ceoil Knocknaheeny and Blarney. Musicians of all ages collaborate with established traditional artists, creating an energetic, intergenerational musical experience for both performers and audiences.

The festival is proudly supported by Creative Tradition, Music Generation Cork City, the Arts Council, Cork City Council and Musical Neighbourhoods.

Festival highlights

The festival launches on Wednesday 25 March at 7pm in Hollyhill Library, with an evening of traditional music, song and storytelling featuring The Gab, Clare Sands and special guests. This opening event is free and open to all, but booking is required due to limited capacity.

The Gala Concert takes place on Thursday 26 March at 7pm in the Church of the Resurrection, Farranree. The festival’s flagship event will showcase Clare Sands alongside traditional musicians from Cork’s northside. Tickets are priced at €5 and are available online via the festival website.

Community sessions, recitals and workshops will follow on Friday 27 and Saturday 28 March, with open and free traditional music events hosted in Hollyhill Library and Maureen’s Pub. These sessions are designed to welcome musicians of all ages and abilities, though booking is required for some workshops.

Féile Fearann Rí is more than a music festival, it is a celebration of community, shared heritage and living folk traditions. With free events, accessible workshops and high-quality performances, the programme offers something for everyone.

Most events are free, but advance registration is required for selected sessions due to limited space. The full festival programme and ticket information are available at https://www.creativetradition.ie/feile.