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September in Sligo 2026: A Month of Culture, Colour & Community

September in Sligo is a celebration of everything that makes this county extraordinary with oceans of creativity, resilience, heritage and wellness. From world‑class photography exhibitions to sheep festivals in the Ox Mountains, from Pride celebrations to Baroque music, the month is packed with experiences that invite visitors to explore every corner of Sligo.

World Press Photo Exhibition

Until September 10 – Queen Maeve Square

One of the world’s most important photography exhibitions arrives in Sligo, showcasing powerful global stories through award‑winning photojournalism. It’s a rare chance to experience world events through the lens of the world’s best visual storytellers.

Wild & Well Festival 2026

September 4–6 – Annaghmore Estate, Collooney

A county‑wide celebration of wellness, movement, nature and creativity. From sea swims and yoga to talks, workshops and outdoor experiences, Wild & Well invites visitors to reconnect with Sligo’s landscapes and with themselves.

Relay for Life Sligo

September 5 – Sligo Town

A powerful community event honouring those affected by cancer. Relay for Life brings together teams, families and supporters for a day of solidarity, remembrance and hope.

Sligo Folk Park: Harvest Festival & Family Fun Day

September 13 – Riverstown

A great day out in rural Sligo with traditional crafts, heritage demonstrations, children’s activities, local food and autumn celebrations at the fantastic Sligo Folk Park.

Sligo Pride 2026

September 14–20 – Countywide

Sligo Pride returns with a full week of parades, talks, workshops, performances and community gatherings. It’s vibrant, inclusive, joyful — and one of the most colourful celebrations of the year.

13th Adaptation Film Festival

September 16–20 – Sligo & Leitrim

A cross‑county film festival exploring adaptation in cinema — from literature to screen, from real stories to creative interpretation. Screenings, discussions and special events take place at The Model and partner venues.

Cloonacool Sheep Festival

September 17–19 – Cloonacool

A unique highlight celebrating traditional farming, sheepdog demonstrations, local crafts, music and Ox Mountain community life. A brilliant way to enjoy and explore South Sligo.

Remembering the Armada

September 17–20 – Grange & North Sligo

A heritage festival honouring the 1588 Spanish Armada story through talks, walks, re‑enactments, music, food and coastal experiences. A deep cultural connection to Sligo’s maritime past.

Sleeping Giant to Queen Maeve Square – Night Exhibition

September 18 – Queen Maeve Square

A spectacular evening of light, sound and storytelling featuring illuminated installations, drummers and a creative reimagining of Sligo’s iconic landscapes.

Culture Night Sligo

September 18 – Countywide

Galleries, studios, theatres, libraries and cultural spaces open their doors for free performances, exhibitions, workshops and late‑night creativity across Sligo.

Surfers’ Ball 2026 – Juniper Barn

September 19 – Juniper Barn

A glamorous coastal celebration bringing together Sligo’s surf community, live music, great food and the unique atmosphere of Juniper Barn.

Croí Heartfest

September 22 – Queen Maeve Square

A heart‑health celebration with music, movement, community activities and wellness experiences in the centre of Sligo Town.

Sligo Baroque Festival

September 25–27 – Sligo Town

One of Ireland’s most respected classical festivals returns with world‑class Baroque performances, intimate concerts and atmospheric venues.

Motorcycle Poker Run

September 27 – Queen Maeve Square

A high‑energy charity run combining motorbikes, scenic routes and a poker‑style challenge — finishing in the heart of Sligo Town.

Coast to Coast Run

September 27 – Sligo Athletic Club

A major athletic event connecting landscapes and communities, drawing runners from across Ireland to experience Sligo’s stunning terrain.

Students’ Day – Sligo Races

September 30 – Sligo Races

A lively day at the races celebrating student life with entertainment, racing action and the unique atmosphere of Sligo Racecourse.

Adventure Gently

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Lough Gill Brewery Visitor Experience

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‘The One @ One’ Late Night Bus Pilot returns for another run this August Bank Holiday Weekend

Late-night services will operate at 1am over the August Bank Holiday weekend

‘The One @ One’, the late-night transport pilot serving three rural Night-Time Economy locations Sligo, Buncrana and Longford, returns this August Bank Holiday Weekend July 31st- August 2nd. As rural Night-Time Economy pilot towns, all three locations have consistently identified access to safe, reliable late-night transport as one of the most significant barriers to nighttime participation. ‘The One@One’ works to address this barrier and allow people to enjoy their town’s night time economy.

In Sligo, ‘The One @ One’ will operate from 1am at the Markievicz Road bus stop and along the Local Link 981 route, before finishing at Rockfield. A friendly security presence is on board for everyone to have a safe and enjoyable journey home. Feedback from the May and June Bank Holiday iterations has been hugely positive across all three pilot locations. The pilot directly aligns with national policy commitments to improve inclusivity, safety and connectivity across Ireland’s rural towns during evening and night-time hours.

These trial periods will help partners understand demand, monitor usage, and shape future late-night transport options for rural communities across the country. We would encourage anyone using the Sligo bus to fill out a short, online survey on www.sligobid.ie, feedback from service users is a vital component to future NTE planning.

This pilot initiative is a partnership between the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, the National Transport Authority, and Local Link, delivered in collaboration with Longford County Council, Donegal County Council, Sligo County Council and Sligo BID.

Tubbercurry Old Fair Day 2026 Festival Launched

Over 50 Traditional Crafts and Heritage Demonstrations to Feature at Tubbercurry Old Fair Day Festival 2026

As Ireland celebrates Craft Month this August, Tubbercurry Old Fair Day Festival returns with one of the country’s largest showcases of traditional skills and heritage, bringing together more than 50 craft and heritage demonstrations on Old Fair Day, Wednesday 12th August together with displays of vintage machinery, crafts and live music.

Celebrating 41 years since the revival of the traditional Fair Day in 1985, the five-day festival (8–12 August) has grown into one of Ireland’s leading heritage events, attracting visitors from across Ireland while also welcoming members of the diaspora back to Tubbercurry to reconnect with their roots and community.

From basket weaving, pottery, ironmongery and thatching to wood turning, butter making, haymaking, threshing and traditional musical instrument making, visitors will have the opportunity to meet skilled craftspeople and heritage practitioners who continue to preserve and share these important traditions.

Rather than simply viewing exhibits, visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the experience. The Heritage and Craft Village offers opportunities to engage with demonstrators, learn about traditional skills and gain a deeper understanding of Ireland’s rich cultural heritage. Families can also visit the Little Folks Fair, where children can try their hand at traditional crafts, creative activities and interactive workshops designed to inspire the next generation of makers and storytellers. Combined with artisan food producers, vintage displays, animal exhibits, music and family entertainment, the festival provides a unique opportunity to experience the traditions, skills and community spirit that shaped rural Ireland for generations.

Festival Chair Louise Kilbane said: “At the heart of the Tubbercurry Old Fair Day Festival is a commitment to preserving and celebrating our heritage. The crafts and demonstrations on display are not simply exhibitions; they are living traditions being passed from one generation to the next. We are proud to provide a platform for these skilled craftspeople while creating an authentic and immersive experience for visitors of all ages. We are also very proud of our new Youth Committee, established this year to help shape the future of the festival. Their enthusiasm, ideas and involvement ensure that the traditions we celebrate today will continue to be valued and enjoyed by future generations.”

A key feature of this year’s festival is the continued involvement of young people through the Old Fair Day Youth Committee. Young volunteers have played an active role in shaping elements of the programme, helping ensure that the festival remains relevant and engaging for future generations while maintaining its strong connection to local traditions and community values. The Youth Committee will organise the popular Family Fun Day and support activities throughout the festival, helping to create opportunities for children and families to connect with local heritage through fun, interactive experiences.

The highlight of the festival takes place on Wednesday 12th August when the streets of Tubbercurry are transformed into a bustling Fair Day experience featuring hundreds of exhibitors, traditional craft and heritage demonstrations, artisan food and craft stalls, vintage machinery and vehicle displays, children’s entertainment, street performances and interactive family activities. Visitors can spend the day exploring the sights, sounds and traditions of rural Ireland before enjoying a free outdoor concert in Wolfe Tone Square featuring one of Ireland’s most popular country music stars, Jimmy Buckley and His Band.

Families can enjoy the Little Folks Fair in St Brigid’s Hall, featuring crafts, workshops, activities and a dedicated sensory area, while visitors can also take part in dance workshops with South Sligo Summer School and Bróga Bríomhar Dance School. Ocean FM will broadcast live from Wolfe Tone Square.

The festival programme also includes the Tubbercurry Trail Parkrun, Teddy Bears’ Picnic, Duck Race, Live music on the Saturday night with Wolfhound, Family Fun activities on Sunday and Tuesday, Square Sundays Car and Coffee Meet Up, the Real Tubber Headers Cup and a celebration of 80 years of Phoenix Players.

As a voluntary community festival, Tubbercurry Old Fair Day continues to thrive thanks to the support of local businesses, sponsors, volunteers, community organisations, Sligo County Council, Fáilte Ireland and visitors who return year after year.

For more information, follow them on social media or visit their website: www.oldfairday.ie

Markree Castle named among Ireland’s Top Hotels

County Sligo Castle Climbs Six Places to No. 8 in National Tripadvisor Rankings

Markree Castle has been named one of Ireland’s top hotels after securing the No. 8 position in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards 2026.

The achievement sees the County Sligo castle climb six places from last year’s rankings, placing Markree Castle among the Top 10 hotels in Ireland based on reviews and ratings submitted by guests over the past 12 months.

Markree Castle has become one of the northwest’s leading hospitality destinations, welcoming visitors from across Ireland and around the world to experience the unique charm, history and hospitality of one of Ireland’s most iconic castles.

Nicholas Ryan, General Manager of Markree Castle, said the recognition was a tremendous achievement for the entire team.

“To be recognised as one of Ireland’s Top 10 hotels and to move up six places from last year is something we are incredibly proud of. What makes this award particularly special is that it comes directly from our guests. Every review represents a personal experience, and we are honoured that so many people have chosen to share such positive feedback about their stay with us.”

 “This recognition is a reflection of the hard work, dedication and passion of our entire team. From our accommodation and food and beverage teams to housekeeping, maintenance and administration, every member of staff plays an important role in creating memorable experiences for our guests.”

 “We are also proud to represent County Sligo and the northwest. We are fortunate to be located in one of Ireland’s most beautiful regions and it is always a privilege to welcome visitors and showcase everything that Sligo has to offer.”

Part of the Romantic Castles of Ireland collection, Markree Castle combines centuries of history with contemporary luxury and has established itself as one of Ireland’s leading castle destinations for weddings, celebrations and luxury escapes.

The Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards represent the highest level of excellence in travel and are awarded to businesses that consistently receive outstanding reviews and ratings from travellers worldwide.

For Markree Castle, the latest ranking marks another significant milestone and reinforces its position as one of the premier hospitality destinations in the west of Ireland.

Their website is www.markreecastle.ie 

Taste of Sligo Food Festival back for 2026

Taste of Sligo Food Festival – Queen Maeve Square, July 25th and 26th 2026

The award-winning Taste of Sligo Food Festival is back with an all new summer feel this July 25th and 26th.

Taking place in Sligo Town’s Queen Maeve Square on the banks of the Garavogue River, enjoy culinary delights from Sligo the Northwest and across Ireland. Bringing together all ages in the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way, it is a weekend guaranteeing good food, local musicians, bands, family fun and non-stop entertainment in the heart of the town.

Going into its third consecutive year, the Taste of Sligo Food Festival has seen incredible success, attracting thousands of attendees from across Ireland and afar. Growing on this success, fan- favourite chef demonstrations and the much-loved family fun area are back with a fresh feel. Enjoy celebrity chef demonstrations from the incredibly talented Shane Smith, Sunil Guy, Lou Robbie and Shamzuri Hanifa to name but a few, alongside local stars from the Sligo Food Trail such as Rebecca Sweeney, Anthony Gray, Aisling Kelly and many more.

Watch in amazement as the little ones expand their skills with a newly introduced Children’s Cookery Area led by Deirdre Doyle expanding on the success of the 2025 collaboration with the Cool Food School and Sligo Food Trail. No matter your age, you are guaranteed to leave the 2026 Taste of Sligo Food Festival feeling inspired in the kitchen.

Make a break and weekend of it in Sligo this July, explore Sligo’s amazing coastline along the Wild Atlantic Way with good food and entertainment to top it off. Celebrate homegrown talent with live music filling the square while you enjoy world-class oysters and craft beer sourced and produced locally, what more could you ask for.

Anthony Gray and his esteemed team are behind Taste of Sligo Food Festival are delighted to work together in showcasing Sligo and its amazing food scene to visitors from all over the world and offer a warm Céad Míle Fáilte. Anthony states “it’s amazing to see this festival growing, attracting visitors and it puts Sligo on the culinary map as a foodie destination.” We know you will leave the weekend having enjoyed and emersed yourself in a culinary experience like no other while enjoying everything that Sligo has to offer.

Add the Taste of Sligo Food Festival to your 2026 Summer Bucket-List and join us in celebrating Ireland’s food culture and talent. We look forward to seeing you there. To find out more information and what to expect from the Taste of Sligo Food Festival, visit www.tasteofsligo.ie/taste-of-sligo-food-festival/ Tickets are now on sale at €5 each on Eventbrite.

The Taste of Sligo Food Festival is supported by Dept. of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Rural Innovation and Development Fund, Sligo BID, Sligo Food Trail, Visit Sligo, Sligo County Council, Fáilte Ireland, Wild Atlantic Way and Sligo Chamber of Commerce, Expert Electrical and Hawks Rocks Distillery.

Spanish Galleon Replica to Visit Sligo This Summer

El Galeón Andalucía – Updated information for visitors:

El Galeón Andalucía departure information:

This beautiful ship will depart Sligo on Monday, July 13th, passing Rosses Point at approximately 5:50pm (weather dependent).

If you’d like to see this magnificent sight, we recommend arriving early to secure a good viewing spot.

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Sligo will welcome the spectacular Galeón Andalucía, the world’s largest replica Spanish galleon, for a two week visit from 30 June to 13 July 2026. The ship’s arrival marks a major cultural moment for the county and provides an exceptional new visitor experience at the start of the summer holidays.

Weather permitting, the Galeón Andalucía will sail into Sligo Harbour on 30 June, creating a dramatic and memorable spectacle for residents and visitors.

Before entering the harbour, the vessel will pause offshore at Streedagh Beach, honouring the site of the 1588 Spanish Armada sinkings and acknowledging Sligo’s deep historical connection to this story.

Sligo is home to the Remembering the Armada Festival, and the group will launch their 2026 festival during the visit.

Visitors will be able to step on board for a self guided tour, exploring the decks, cabins and maritime heritage of this spectacular ship.

The experience is suitable for all ages and is will be a major draw for families, community groups, maritime enthusiasts and cultural visitors.

This visit is hosted and supported by Sligo County Council, with additional support from the Sligo Tourist Development Association (STDA) and Fáilte Ireland.

Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, Cllr Donal Gilroy welcomed the news of the visit saying “As both Cathaoirleach and a long standing member of the Grange and Armada Development Association I am delighted to welcome the Galeón Andalucía to Sligo. This ship represents a powerful link between our coastline and one of the most compelling chapters in European maritime history. Its visit strengthens the bond between Sligo and the Armada story, honours those who were lost at Streedagh in 1588, and offers our communities and visitors a unique opportunity to engage with this shared heritage.”

Martin Lydon, Chief Executive, Sligo County Council added “The arrival of the Galeón Andalucía is a truly unique experience for Sligo and a significant addition to our summer visitor offering. It showcases the strength of collaboration across our tourism partners and highlights the depth of culture, heritage and landscape that defines County Sligo. This is the type of distinctive, high quality experience that supports our Destination and Experience Development Plan and encourages visitors to explore right across the county.”

The Sligo Tourist Development Association (STDA) is supporting the visit and the Chair, Lewis J Rhatigan, has said “The Sligo Tourist Development Association is very pleased to support the visit of the Galeón Andalucía. This initiative aligns strongly with our objectives to enhance Sligo’s profile, support compelling visitor experiences and strengthen the tourism economy. The ship will attract both local families and visitors from further afield, contributing to increased footfall and wider economic benefit throughout the county.”

Fáilte Ireland is also supporting the visit and Luke Murray, Wild Atlantic Way Manager for Sligo and Mayo commented;

“The visit of the Galeón Andalucía directly supports actions set out in the Sligo Destination and Experience Development Plan to interpret and bring to life the county’s Spanish Armada heritage. This is a strong example of the Plan being activated through a high‑profile, place‑based experience that connects Sligo’s maritime history with contemporary cultural engagement. By anchoring the Spanish Armada story in a living, immersive way, the visit strengthens Sligo’s coastal experience offering and encourages visitors to explore the county more deeply. Fáilte Ireland is pleased to support Sligo County Council and local partners in delivering an initiative that aligns with the objectives of the Sligo DEDP and the wider Wild Atlantic Way”.

The visit of the Galeón Andalucía supports Sligo’s commitment to balanced tourism dispersal, encouraging visitors to explore coastal, rural, cultural and urban areas across the county. From Streedagh and Grange to Sligo town and the wider Wild Atlantic Way, the initiative complements the county’s broader tourism strategy.

Visitors will also be encouraged to use the Visit Sligo Ideas Engine — the county’s personalised itinerary generator — to plan a full day or multi‑day experience around their visit to the ship. Full information regarding the visit will be available on www.sligo.ie and on the Visit Sligo social media channels.

Ticketing information for visit of Galeón Andalucía to Sligo

When:                         Public visits available between 1st July and 12th July

Ship open to visitors from 10am to 8pm daily

Where:                       Deepwater Quay, Sligo Harbour

Ticket prices:

Standard        (Age 10 and up):         €15

Child               (Age 5-10):                   €7

Family (2 adults & 3 children):        €37

Tickets available on board or online at https://ticket.velacuadra.es/

Discounts are available for advance online tickets purchased.

The ship is not wheelchair accessible.

“Good Evening and Good Night Sligo” to Celebrate Sligo’s Thriving Night-Time Economy

Sligo’s vibrant night-time economy will take centre stage at a special celebratory event, Good Evening and Good Night Sligo, on Thursday, May 7th, from 6:00 PM until late. This exciting initiative is designed to showcase the diverse and dynamic offerings of the town’s after-dark scene while supporting local businesses and encouraging increased foot traffic across the area.

Over thirty local businesses will participate in the event by hosting special activities and offering exclusive discounts throughout the evening. Attendees can expect an eclectic range of experiences and deals, including:

  • A charity Glow Walk in Queen Maeve Square
  • Free ice-cream at Fabios
  • Complimentary tattoos with your pint at The Snug
  • A pasta-making demonstration at Pasta Fresca
  • Complimentary Style tips from stylist Fiona Doyle in the Quayside Shopping Centre
  • Live music sessions including Thomas Connolly’s, Oak Moon Café, Maeve’s Bar, Waxies, and Ósta
  • A poetry evening at The Model
  • A coffee foam art throwdown in the Oak Moon Café
  • A mobile gaming experience featuring the latest games on both PlayStation and Xbox in Queen Maeve Square
  • An Open Day at The Crib

In addition to the exciting lineup of activities, a Most Stylish in Sligo competition will take place throughout the night, with judges visiting participating venues to select nominees with €1,500 Love Sligo Gift Card worth of prizes on offer, which can be used to explore the best of Sligo’s local offerings.

The event is set to offer a snapshot of the town’s vibrant night-time offerings, providing a unique opportunity for both locals and visitors to rediscover Sligo after dark. It will also support local businesses and encourage greater footfall across the town.

Edel Doran, Sligo Town Night-Time Economy Advisor, commented:

“This event highlights the variety and creativity of Sligo’s night-time economy. It’s an exciting chance for people to come together, experience what the town has to offer, and support local businesses. We hope this event will have a lasting positive impact and could become a staple of Sligo’s social calendar.”

Martin Lydon, Sligo County Council Chief Executive, commented:

“Sligo town is very much alive and thriving, and May 7th will highlight the strength and diversity of our night-time economy, led by our local businesses. From Bealtaine workshops and free ice‑cream to poetry, music, darts and gaming, there is something on offer for everyone. I would like to commend the businesses who have come together to deliver what promises to be a memorable evening and night out in Sligo town.”

Be sure to check out the full list of events and on the Sligo BID website and social media channels.

Photo courtesy of Donal Hackett.

New late-night bus service launched

Minister Patrick O’Donovan announces ‘The One @ One’ – a Night-Time Economy Late-Night Pilot Bus Service in Sligo, Buncrana and Longford

New late-night services will operate at 1am over the May, June, August & October Bank Holiday weekends and on Culture Night.

The Minister for the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan T.D has today announced the launch of ‘The One @ One’, a new late-night transport pilot serving three rural Night-Time Economy locations Sligo, Buncrana and Longford.

As rural Night-Time Economy pilot towns, all three locations have consistently identified access to safe, reliable late-night transport as one of the most significant barriers to nighttime participation. This pilot initiative aims to test tailored solutions designed specifically for smaller towns and dispersed rural communities.

Developed as a targeted response to research and extensive local consultation, ‘The One @ One’ will support safer, more accessible travel for residents and visitors while strengthening the vibrancy of the rural night-time economy. The pilot directly aligns with national policy commitments to improve inclusivity, safety and connectivity across Ireland’s rural towns during evening and night-time hours.

The service will operate on several busy weekends and key dates throughout the year, giving people more ways to travel safely after a night out. These trial periods will help partners understand demand, monitor usage, and shape future late-night transport options for rural communities across the country.

This pilot initiative is a partnership between the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, the National Transport Authority, and Local Link, delivered in collaboration with Longford County Council, Donegal County Council, Sligo County Council and Sligo BID.

Speaking about the initiative today:

Cathaoirleach Donal Gilroy, Sligo County Council said:

“Access to safe and reliable late-night transport is essential to how people experience and enjoy our town after dark. This pilot represents a very positive step in supporting Sligo’s night-time economy while prioritising safety, inclusion and sustainability. By removing transport barriers, we are helping residents, workers and visitors alike to fully participate in evening life in Sligo and ensuring our town remains welcoming, vibrant and connected.”

Announcing the pilot initiative today, Minister Patrick O’Donovan said:

“I’m very aware that rural areas can face greater challenges than larger urban centres, when it comes to transport and accessing night-time activities. That’s why I’m delighted to support the launch of this pilot initiative as part of the Night-Time Economy programme. It’s especially encouraging to see the strong collaboration between the three counties and their local authorities in working together to address shared needs.”

Speaking today, Ed Betagh, Local Link Programme Manager, National Transport Authority said:

“NTA is a strong supporter of the Night-Time Economy and understands the importance of improving our public transport network to ensure our passengers can get home from work or from a night out with friends later in the evening. We are already investing in late night services in cities and towns across the country, and this pilot project will bring these benefits to even more people.”

The 1am bus service will be operated by Local Link and will run on the following routes:

Buncrana – Route 959: Buncrana to Greencastle via Carndonagh

Sligo – Route 981: Markievicz Road to Rockfield

Longford – Route 865: Longford Centre to Granard

Speaking about the initiative today:

Martin Lydon, Chief Executive, Sligo County Council said:

“This late-night bus pilot is in direct response to feedback from the people and businesses of Sligo town. Access to late-night transport has consistently emerged as a key challenge across all three locations. As pilot towns, we have a unique opportunity to trial innovative solutions, evaluate their impact, and better meet the needs of our communities. So we are delighted to see the One @ One come to life here in Sligo town.”

The introduction of ‘The One @ One’ marks an important step in enhancing accessibility, safety and vibrancy within Ireland’s rural night-time economy. This pilot will help ensure that more people can enjoy what their towns have to offer confident that they have a safe way to get home at the end of the night.

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