<![CDATA[RORY GALLAGHER INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL - BALLYSHANNON, CO. DONEGAL, IRELAND - Latest Festival News]]>Sun, 06 Sep 2026 22:09:20 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[Irish Rock Music Festivals Together: United in the Face of Adversity]]>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 14:07:37 GMThttps://www.rorygallagherfestival.com/latest-festival-news/irish-rock-music-festivals-together-united-in-the-face-of-adversity​National Stadium, Dublin | Saturday 31st October 2026 | 3.00pm – 11.00pm (Doors Open at 2pm) 
Two Great Irish Music Festivals. Six Outstanding Acts. One Great Day
The Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival and the Rockathon Music Festival have announced a landmark collaboration that will see the two festivals unite to present One Great Day, an iconic one-off celebration of Irish rock music at the National Stadium, Dublin, on Saturday 31st October 2026. 

The event marks the first initiative under the banner Irish Rock Music Festivals Together, bringing together six outstanding acts from two of Ireland's leading rock music festivals for what promises to be one of Ireland's most unique live music events of 2026.

Tickets for this very special fundraising day are available now:
https://gr8events.ie/rockathon-rory-fundraiser

Both the Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival and the Rockathon Music Festival were severely impacted by the collapse of Tickets.ie, the Irish ticketing company that folded just hours after both festivals had successfully concluded in early June 2026. The collapse resulted in the loss of virtually all of their online ticketing income.
For the Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival, the loss represented almost 70% of the Festival's annual income, placing enormous financial pressure on one of Ireland's best-known international music festivals.
Since then, both festivals have stood shoulder to shoulder, working together through the ongoing liquidation proceedings before the Irish High Court while also championing the interests of independent music festivals throughout Ireland.

Now, that unity moves from the courtroom to the concert stage. Rather than allowing adversity to define them, the two festivals have chosen to create something positive, an unforgettable day celebrating the artists, audiences, volunteers and communities who make Irish live music so special. One Great Day is far more than a fundraising concert. It is a celebration of resilience, collaboration and the enduring spirit of independent music festivals.

A Unique Line-up --- The National Stadium will host six exceptional acts spanning blues rock, classic rock, heavy metal, alternative rock and grunge. 

The confirmed line-up is - 
  • Band of Friends featuring Gerry McAvoy & Brendan O'Neill
  • Whiplash – Ireland's Metallica Tribute
  • Pat McManus Band with very special guests Barry Devlin & Jim Lockhart (from Horslips)
  • Rugged Little Pill – Alanis Morissette Tribute
  • The Zac Schulze Gang
  • The Year Grunge Broke
Together, these artists represent generations of outstanding musicians and celebrate the diversity and strength of the Irish rock music scene while welcoming acclaimed international performers.

Tickets for this very special fundraising day are available now - 
https://gr8events.ie/rockathon-rory-fundraiser

A Return to an Iconic Stage

For the Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival, this one day of music represents much more than a fundraising event. It is a return to one of the most iconic venues in Rory Gallagher's extraordinary career. Rory Gallagher was a regular performer at Dublin's National Stadium, where he delivered many unforgettable concerts throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Sharing the stage with him on many of those memorable occasions were his long-time bandmates Gerry McAvoy and Brendan O'Neill, whose performances became part of the venue's rich musical heritage.

Now, decades later, as the Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival faces the greatest challenge in its history, Gerry McAvoy and Brendan O'Neill return to the National Stadium with Band of Friends, bringing Rory's music back to a venue where it inspired generations of Irish music fans.

The occasion is made even more significant by the return of musicians whose own careers are closely intertwined with the National Stadium. Horslips, one of Ireland's most influential rock bands, created many memorable nights at the famous venue, while Mama's Boys, fronted by Pat McManus, also played an important part in its proud history.
On Saturday 31st October 2026, Barry Devlin, Jim Lockhart and Pat McManus will once again grace the National Stadium stage alongside Gerry McAvoy and Brendan O'Neill for what promises to be a truly historic and emotional occasion.

For many attending, this one day event will be much more than a concert. It will be a celebration of Ireland's rock music heritage, a tribute to the musicians who helped shape it, and a powerful reminder that the spirit of live music continues to unite people across generations. The National Stadium has witnessed countless legendary performances throughout its history. It promises to take its place among them.

Voices Behind the Collaboration 

Barry O'Neill, Chairperson and Founder of the Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival said - 
"When Tickets.ie collapsed, we had a choice. We could allow it to define us, or we could respond positively. Together with Rockathon Music Festival, we've chosen to unite through music. This one day fusion is about resilience, friendship and ensuring independent festivals continue to have a future. Returning to the National Stadium, where Rory Gallagher created so many unforgettable memories, makes this event even more special. We hope music fans from across Ireland and beyond will join us for what promises to be a truly historic occasion". 

Kellie McGuane, Rockathon Music Festival said -  "Independent festivals are the heartbeat of Ireland's live music scene. They create opportunities for artists, bring communities together and showcase the very best of Irish music. This collaboration proves that when festivals work together, we are stronger together than we could ever be apart. We are incredibly proud to stand alongside the Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival to present a magnificent show and celebrate everything that independent festivals represent". 

The organisers hope the event will become a defining moment of solidarity within the Irish music industry, demonstrating what can be achieved when festivals unite behind a common purpose. Independent festivals make a significant contribution to Ireland's cultural and economic life. They provide opportunities for artists, attract visitors from around the world, support local businesses, sustain employment and create vibrant communities across the country. 

By supporting this one day event, music fans will not only experience an extraordinary day of live music but will also help support two much loved Irish festivals as they continue their fight for the future.

Presented by Irish Rock Music Festivals Together 
📍 National Stadium, Dublin
📅 Saturday 31st October 2026
🕒 3.00pm – 11.00pm

Featuring
  • Band of Friends featuring Gerry McAvoy & Brendan O'Neill
  • Whiplash – Ireland's Metallica Tribute
  • Pat McManus Band with very special guests Barry Devlin & Jim Lockhart (from Horslips)
  • Rugged Little Pill – Alanis Morissette Tribute
  • The Zac Schulze Gang
  • The Year Grunge Broke

Tickets On Sale Now --- Tickets for this very special fundraising day are available now:
https://gr8events.ie/rockathon-rory-fundraiser

Join us for an unforgettable day of music while supporting the future of two of Ireland's most respected Independent & Voluntary led Music Festivals 
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]]><![CDATA[Rory Gallagher Symposium 2026 & FILM "Do You Read Me"]]>Mon, 18 May 2026 11:41:44 GMThttps://www.rorygallagherfestival.com/latest-festival-news/rory-gallagher-symposium-2026-film-do-you-read-meA Unique Celebration of Rory’s Life, Music and Legacy
The 2026 edition of the Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival will feature one of the most anticipated spoken word and film events ever presented at the Festival, as the Rory Gallagher Symposium returns for a very special afternoon of reflection, insight and storytelling. Taking place from 12.30pm on Saturday 30th May 2026 at the Rory Gallagher Theatre in the Abbey Arts Centre, this unique gathering will bring together a distinguished panel of guests, close friends and family members to discuss the life, times and enduring legacy of Rory Gallagher. Limited Tickets Available - Advanced Booking Advised - €10 for Symposium & Film - Book Now

The event promises to be relaxed, thought-provoking and deeply personal, offering fans a rare opportunity to hear first-hand memories and reflections from those who knew Rory best and who witnessed his remarkable impact on music and audiences across the world.

Among the featured guests will be Donal Gallagher, Rory’s brother and lifelong manager, who played a central role throughout Rory’s career and continues to preserve and promote his extraordinary musical legacy. Donal will also share some exclusive insights and hints surrounding his highly anticipated Rory Gallagher biography, due for release later in 2026.

Joining the discussion will be Ed Christman, Executive Editor-Finance of Billboard, who experienced Rory performing live over three decades while simultaneously covering the international music business during that same period. His perspective promises to offer a fascinating insight into Rory’s standing within the global music industry and the deep respect he commanded amongst musicians, promoters and fans alike.

Following the Symposium, audiences will also enjoy the premiere live screening of “Do You Read Me – Rory Gallagher Festival”, a feature film exploring the mystique, passion and international appeal of the Ballyshannon festival experience. The film has been created by filmmakers Stephen O'Dowd and Sarah Ploss and captures the spirit, emotion and worldwide community that continues to gather annually in Rory’s birthplace.

This promises to be one of the standout cultural events of Festival weekend and an unforgettable afternoon for Rory Gallagher fans travelling from across Ireland and around the world.

Rory Gallagher Symposium 2026
Saturday 30th May 2026 commencing at 12.30pm
Rory Gallagher Theatre, Abbey Arts Centre, Ballyshannon 
Advanced Tickets - €10
Limited Tickets Available – Book Now – HERE
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]]><![CDATA[40 Acts, 15 Stages and a Headline Set from ZZ Top’s Billy F Gibbons — Rory Festival Programme Revealed]]>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 19:46:15 GMThttps://www.rorygallagherfestival.com/latest-festival-news/40-acts-15-stages-and-a-headline-set-from-zz-tops-billy-f-gibbons-rory-festival-programme-revealedThe much anticipated programme for the Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival 2026 has been officially announced, as the town of Ballyshannon prepares to honour its most famous musical son with four unforgettable days of music with World Renowned artists from Thursday 28th May to Sunday 31st May 2026. 

Now in its 22nd year, the internationally acclaimed festival is widely recognised as Ireland’s biggest Blues Rock event and the world’s largest gathering of Rory Gallagher fans, attracting thousands of visitors annually from more than 20 countries to the town of Ballyshannon where the legendary guitarist was born. 

The packed schedule delivers a unique festival experience with the vast majority of events free to view, featuring over 30 acts performing across 15 stages over four unforgettable days. From major headline concerts in the Festival Big Top to open-air street performances, pub sessions, acoustic tributes, masterclasses, symposium discussions, film screenings, and late-night blues jams, the festival transforms the entire town into a vibrant celebration of Rory’s music and influence. Performances take place at iconic Rory Gallagher landmarks including the Rory Gallagher Statue, Rory Gallagher Place, The Rock Hospital where Rory was born in 1948, The Gables amphitheatre, Allingham Park  and 10 unique Irish Pub venues throughout the town centre. Full Programme for 2026 - HERE 

Among the highlights of the 2026 programme is the headline appearance of Billy F Gibbons (ZZ Top) and The BFG Band, set to perform at the Festival Big Top on Saturday 30th May 2026. The Festival also welcomes "Band of Friends" featuring Rory’s former bandmates Gerry McAvoy and Brendan O’Neill, alongside Davy Knowles and David Cowan, offering audiences one of the most authentic live tributes to Rory’s music. 
Other Big Top performances across the weekend include Pat McManus Band with Horslips legends Jim Lockhart and Barry Devlin, Johnny Gallagher & The Boxty Band, Moonchild, Deuce, Nine Below Zero featuring Mark Feltham, The Zac Schulze Gang, and the closing Rory Gallagher All-Star Band. 

Festival Founder and Chairperson Barry O’Neill has described the announcement of the programme for the Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival 2026 as a landmark moment for the internationally celebrated event, which continues to draw thousands of fans from across the world to Rory’s birthplace of Ballyshannon each May. 

Mr. O’Neill said the Festival programme reflects Rory’s lasting influence on blues and rock music while showcasing both established artists and emerging talent. “The atmosphere during Festival weekend is truly special. The town comes alive with music on every street and stage, creating an experience that is authentic, welcoming, and deeply rooted in Rory’s spirit. We invite fans everywhere to join us in Ballyshannon in May 2026 and be part of this global celebration”.  

He also acknowledged the continued support of the Gallagher Family, funders including Fáilte Ireland, corporate sponsors Diageo, volunteers and the very small voluntary committee whose commitment ensures the Festival continues each year despite many challenges. 

Failte Ireland have described the 4 day festival as one of the most important cultural events on the Irish Festival Calendar - “Fáilte Ireland is pleased to support the Rory Gallagher International Festival 2026. Festivals and events like this create memorable cultural experiences that encourage visitors from Ireland and overseas to discover all that we have to offer across the country. Our investment in the Rory Gallagher International Festival strengthens Donegal’s appeal as a must-visit destination within the Wild Atlantic Way region, while generating meaningful economic opportunities for local businesses and contributing to the sustainable growth of tourism in the Wild Atlantic Way region”.  

Check out the Full 2026 Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival Programme - HERE 
Rory Gallagher Festival Programme 2026
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Discover Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way
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