Preparations are underway in Arklow as they celebrate 55 years of their annual feis, the Arklow Music Festival.
Taking place in March 2026, the 55th Arklow Music Festival is a 9-day event, with various competitions happening during it. The festival strives to “celebrate and nurture creativity, performance, and artistic expression across all ages”, and has served as a “welcoming platform for musicians, speakers, writers, and performers to develop their talents, share their passion, and enrich the cultural life of our community”.
In announcing the event, the organisers wrote: “We look forward to seeing you in March as a competitor, supporter or at our Prize Winners Concert.”
There are several competitions running, some for groups and others for individuals, including a Brass and Wind category. Any interested musician is welcome to enter, and the official closing date for online entries is tomorrow, 16th January 2026. Entries thereafter must be made by contacting their office.
While the main event runs from 7th-15th March 2026, there will be a Dinner Dance in the Arklow Bay Hotel on January 31st to kick off the festival.
Further details about the event are available on the organiser’s Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580072676644 and on their official website, https://arklowmusicfestival.com/