Tubbercurry Old Fair Day Festival 2025
One of Ireland’s longest-running heritage festivals returns with a milestone celebration.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant celebration of Tubbercurry’s rich heritage and community spirit. The Tubbercurry Old Fair Day Festival returns to celebrate 40 years since our first Old Fair Day in 1985 with a packed programme of events. This August, the festival committee has joined with local community groups to create thrilling family entertainment—from live music to engaging dance and craft demonstrations. This five-day festival promises fun and excitement for the whole family. So, mark your calendar and create memories from Saturday, 9th August to the highlight of the festival, Old Fair Day on Wednesday, 13th August.
Louise Kilbane, newly appointed Chair, leads this year’s milestone celebrations with energy and vision. “We are so proud to celebrate 40 years of this special festival. The committee has worked tirelessly to honour the traditions of the past while bringing fresh, new experiences to the programme. Collaboration is key, and we’re grateful for the continued support of our incredible community partners, funders and the local businesses. This year, our theme is Youth Engagement -honouring our youth committee members and partnering with local youth groups. We’re also introducing a brand-new children’s area in St. Brigid’s Hall: the Little Folk’s Fair. A hands-on space for children to explore tradition through fun, art, music and games.”
Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to preserving Ireland’s heritage and crafts, the festival offers immersive experiences and family-friendly activities that guarantee something for everyone. The festival kicks off on Saturday with the Tubbercurry Trail Run, followed by the Teddy Bear Picnic in the Forest Trail. Enjoy the welcoming atmosphere at Family Fun Days at Kilcoyne Park and the Family Resource Centre. Adults can test their skills in the Headers Cup and explore vintage cars at Square Sundays.
Saturday evening is in memory of past Chair and committee member, Paul Walsh, a driving force behind the festival. Beginning with “I’m A Culchie, get Me Out of Here!” a celebration of the best of the Old Fair Day with a twist, followed by live music from Oisin McCann, with a nod back to the 80’s with our headline act Springbreak. Time to dust off those costumes.
On Old Fair Day, experience the sights and sounds of fairs gone by with craft and heritage villages, artisan food, children’s fun zones, and demonstrations from spinning and weaving to thatching and butter making. Ocean FM will broadcast live from the Square, and Havin’ A Laugh Charity returns with its Coffee Morning on Tour, while you can learn a step or two with free dance classes by South Sligo Summer School and Bróga Bríomhar Dance School. Visitors will enjoy vintage tractors, classic cars, and surprise encounters in the award-winning animal display. Over a hundred exhibitors will line the streets of Tubbercurry, complemented by Murray’s Funfair and nightly pub music to close out each day.
Get ready to experience the magic of Tubbercurry’s Old Fair Day Festival from 9th to 13th August 2025. Discover the true essence of Sligo’s community spirit while indulging in a wide range of entertainment that will leave you longing for more.
For more information, follow us on social media or visit our website: www.oldfairday.ie
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Céad Míle Fáilte to all our visitors. Enjoy the festival.
