Summer is finally here and in between the odd shower, the weather has been amazing here in the Boyne Valley in County Meath and South County Louth. Our region is known for hosting some amazing festivals all throughout the year, but especially the summer time! Whether you are into music, food, sports, or family days out, there is something for everyone. Here is a full list of our summer festivals in the Boyne Valley.
Taking place in the heritage town of Kells from the 22nd to the 25th of June, this is a festival celebrating literature and arts from Irish and International artists. There are over 50 events throughout the weekend including interviews, workshops, theatre, street art, live music and Ireland’s only Litcrawl – where budding writers & artists share their work in smaller, intimate venues. Find out more here.
International Festival for the Irish Harp
This Harp festival takes place in Termonfechin, Co Louth from the 25th to the 30th of June. The harp festival, An Chúirt Chruitireachta, ranks among the top international festivals for Irish harp. The town warmly welcome harpers of every standard from all over the world. Find out more here.
The inaugural Navan Pride Festival takes place in the town from the 26th of June to the 01st of July. Expect a week packed with movie screenings at the Solstice Art Centre, Quiz night, Drag Bingo, Open Mic Night and the parade on the 1st of July. Find out more here.
The River Boyne Festival Drogheda
Celebrate summer beside the Boyne in Drogheda from Friday 30th June- Sunday 2nd July. This family fun festival includes live music, kids entertainment and more. Find out more here.
International Baseball Festival
Ashbourne Baseball club are set to host the International Baseball Festival this summer. From the 6th to the 9th of July, they will welcome teams from all over the world to participate in this international tournament. From July 27th to July 30th, they will also host an U18 Baseball European Championship Qualifier. The host nation, IRELAND, will compete against Poland, Croatia and Slovakia. Spectators are welcome! Find out more here.
Otherside Festival
From the 7th to the 9th of July, Rock Farm Slane will come alive for music, dance, comedy, conversation, wellness, food, and connection. Headline acts include Bombay Bicycle Club, CMAT and SBTRKT. Find out more here.
Loughcrew Estate Fairy Festival
Join the team at Loughcrew Estate and experience a magical weekend at Loughcrew Gardens, on the 22nd/23rd of July from 12:00pm - 6pm. Get inspired by Fairies, enchantment, and ancient legends in the beautiful surrounds of this estate. Find out more here.
Taking place in the beautiful setting of Townley Hall, as well as other venues around the Boyne Valley, The Boyne Music Festival runs from the 26th to the 30th of July. Featuring in the festival this year will be violinist Mia Cooper, soprano Anna Devin, pianist Sibila Konstantinova, poet John Noonan and percussionist Alex Petcu for the first time. Returning are acclaimed musicians Deirdre Brenner, Robert Cohen, Zoë Conway, Carmen Flores, Jessie Grimes, Aisling Manning, Julie-Anne Manning, John McIntyre and Vourneen Ryan. Find out more here.
Sandcastle Festival
The 20th National Sandcastle and Sculpturing Competition is back at Bettystown Beach on the 27th of July this year. Senior and junior competitions will take place with cash prizes for the winners! Come and enjoy a great day out at the beach! Find out more here.
Boyne Valley international Film festival
The Boyne Valley International Film Festival returns in 2023 from the 11th to the 13th of August in Drogheda. Produced by Droichead Arts Centre in partnership with LOVE Drogheda BIDS and curated by acclaimed filmmaker and Boyne Valley native Frank W. Kelly and Collette Farrell, Droichead Arts Centre Director, this three-day event will feature the best short films from around the country, and the world, with a special focus on films made in the region, combined with masterclasses and in conversations with film makers. Find out more here.
Moynalty Steam Threshing Festival
The 48th annual Moynalty Steam Threshing Festival will take place on the 13th August 2023 in the grounds of the Moynalty Steam Threshing Museum and parkland in the heart of the village. Look forward to a day of demonstrations from days long ago, craft stalls, competitions and more. Derek Ryan will take to the stage in a grand finale of music. Find out more here.
Set in the picturesque Killyon Manor, Another Love Story festival runs from the 18th to the 20th of August. This is a bespoke festival weekender of music, art, conversation, food and frolics. The perfect end of summer event! Find out more here.
There is always something to look forward to in the Boyne Valley. Be sure to check out our list of accommodation providers and extend your stay when you visit. We can’t wait to welcome you.
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