Sligo County

Events

County Sligo, rich with literary heritage and stunning landscapes, hosts a variety of vibrant festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate its cultural richness and artistic spirit. These gatherings provide both locals and visitors with opportunities to engage with the community, experience traditional Irish culture, and enjoy contemporary entertainment.

Sligo Jazz Festival:

Held annually in July, this festival attracts jazz musicians and fans from around the world. The Sligo Jazz Festival features a week of performances, workshops, and jam sessions, showcasing both international stars and emerging talents in the jazz world.

Yeats International Summer School:

This prestigious event, held every summer, is one of the oldest literary festivals in the world. Dedicated to the life and works of William Butler Yeats, the school offers lectures, seminars, and guided tours related to Yeats and his contemporaries, drawing scholars, students, and literature enthusiasts to Sligo.

Sligo Festival of Baroque Music:

Taking place in the autumn, this festival celebrates baroque music with performances by Irish and international musicians. Concerts are held in various historic venues around Sligo, offering a unique blend of classical music and historic architecture.

Sligo Live:

This folk, roots, and indie music festival occurs every October, featuring six days of music and entertainment. Sligo Live includes performances by leading national and international artists, sessions, street and fringe performances, and the Arrivals emerging artists’ stage, contributing significantly to the vibrant music scene in Sligo.

Sligo County Agricultural Show:

Taking place in Riverstown every summer, this show includes competitions in livestock, poultry, and home industries. It’s a family-friendly event that celebrates rural life and traditions, with plenty of activities for children, making it a cornerstone of community life in Sligo.

The Warrior’s Run:

This unique sporting event involves a grueling race from the Strandhill seafront to the top of Knocknarea Mountain and back. It combines athletic challenge with scenic views, attracting hundreds of participants eager to test their endurance against the dramatic backdrop of Sligo’s landscapes.

Rosses Point Shanty Festival:

Celebrating Sligo’s maritime heritage, this festival features sea shanty performances, workshops, and storytelling. Held in June at Rosses Point, a key maritime center, the festival honors the memory of sailors and fishermen from Sligo and beyond.

Strandhill People’s Market:

Located at Sligo Airport in Hangar 1, this vibrant market takes place every Sunday. It brings together local artisans, chefs, and producers to sell their goods, ranging from gourmet food and baked treats to handmade crafts and art, providing a taste of local life and creativity.

Cairde Sligo Arts Festival:

This annual arts festival in July offers a week-long celebration of visual arts, theater, dance, music, and spoken word performances. With its inclusive and diverse program, Cairde Sligo Arts Festival highlights the creative talent of Sligo and further enriches its cultural landscape.

These festivals and events not only highlight County Sligo’s cultural richness but also enhance its community spirit and provide visitors with memorable experiences that showcase the best of Irish heritage and contemporary culture.