Great news for music enthusiasts in the North West!
The Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival will return to Ballyshannon in 2026, organisers have confirmed.
Fundraising concerns had cast a shadow over the festival’s future, but a successful crowdfunding campaign has secured its continuation, at least for next year’s event.
While 2025 marked the 21st consecutive year of the Ballyshannon festival, significant funding was crucial to ensure a 22nd year, as the volunteer group behind the event faced financial hurdles.
Music lovers from Donegal and beyond rallied, raising over €40,000 to guarantee the festival’s survival.
Organisers announced this afternoon that the 2026 festival will be held from Thursday, May 28th to Sunday, May 31st.
They also expressed their gratitude on social media to everyone who supported the fundraising effort.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank everybody for generously supporting the Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival Go Fund Me campaign,” they posted.
“As widely reported recently, both in Ireland and internationally, small independent and voluntary-run music festivals are facing numerous challenges.”
“However, we have been doing this for over 21 years and are now diligently planning the 22nd Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival in Ballyshannon, County Donegal, for 2026. Come and join us!”
Rory Gallagher Festival gets green light for 2026 return after fundraiser success! was last modified: July 5th, 2025 by
