Portlaoise TradFest returns over May Bank Holiday weekend 

TRADITIONAL and folk music fans are in for a treat with the return of the hugely popular Portlaoise TradFest over the May Bank Holiday weekend.

Some of the best musicians on the traditional Irish music scene will perform around the town from Friday to Sunday 2-4 May.

The festival brings a host of top artists and lively sessions, enriching workshops and engaging events to celebrate Ireland’s rich musical heritage.

The legendary Dervish will perform a headline show, delivering their spellbinding blend of trad music and song at the Dunamaise Arts Centre at 8pm on Friday.

On Saturday and Sunday nights respectively, Scullion and Ye Vagabonds, two of Ireland’s most exciting contemporary folk acts, will take to the stage in Kavanagh’s Courtyard, ensuring a memorable experience for festival-goers.

Beyond the stellar performances, Portlaoise TradFest 2025 will offer more than 30 lively sessions across the town’s pubs and venues as well as immersive music workshops led by top musicians, and a special CD will be launched by accomplished Laois pianist David Vesey. There will also be youth and adult sessions for all ages. A Youth Battle of the Bands showcasing emerging talent from Laois and beyond will also take place, while the ever-popular Festival Club Trisco makes a welcome return on Saturday and Sunday in Manhattan Mixer with DJs Jim Bán and Hot Whiskey – free admission on both nights.

Music workshops will take place on Saturday 3 May from 11am to 1pm in Dunamase College, Tower Hill. All classes are designed for musicians with a minimum of two years’ experience. Intermediate to advance level of playing is recommended for all classes except the beginner whistle workshop with Leona McKenna. The workshops include fiddle, accordion, whistle, bodhrán, banjo, guitar, singing and concertina.

Hosting the festival is none other than Caitríona Sherlock, acclaimed singer and three times all-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil winner, who will be engaging with artists and audiences alike through interviews, singing sessions and special appearances throughout the weekend.

The festival organisers have issued and invitation to musicians, music lovers and the wider community to come together for what promises to be an electrifying weekend of Irish tradition, talent and craic.

For ticket information, workshop sign-ups and full schedule of events, log onto www.portlaoisetradfest.com. You can also email the organisers at portlaoisetradfest@gmail.com or phone 083 1040114.