Festivals of literature, art, music, film, screenwriting and the great outdoors are among the best events happening across Ireland throughout the month of April.
Words, In Other Places</h5
11 & 12 April, Belfast & Dublin, more info here
Words, In Other Places, an Irish Writers Centre Literary Festival, takes place over the course of one weekend at the Seamus Heaney Centre, Queen’s University in Belfast, and at the Irish Writers Centre in Dublin. Showcasing a tri-lateral range of form, talent and diversity in today’s literary scene, looking to the north and south of Ireland while welcoming international writers, each day will be divided into three separate events. Writers appearing across panels and workshops include Wendy Erskine, Louise Nealon, and Patrick Holloway.
New Music Dublin
15-19 April, The National Concert Hall and other venues throughout Dublin, more info here
New Music Dublin is Ireland’s foremost contemporary music festival, aiming to present contemporary music as vital, adventurous, and reflective of modern Ireland—highly inclusive, strongly collaborative and artistically ambitious—and it challenges perceptions that new music is niche or inaccessible.
Storyhouse Ireland: Dublin Screenwriting Festival
16 & 17 April, Light House Cinema, Dublin, more info here
Storyhouse champions, cultivates, and celebrates the art and craft of storytelling for the screen over a two-day programme of panels, keynote talks, interviews, and case studies featuring an exciting line up of acclaimed Irish and international screen storytellers. In parallel with the main event, emerging and established screenwriters are encouraged to apply for STORYHOUSE LAB with a feature length film or TV project they want to develop. STORYHOUSE LAB is an inclusive professional development programme for 12 Irish screenwriters running alongside the main festival.
Wander Wild Festival
17-19 April Killarney, Kerry, more info here
Wander off the beaten track at Ireland’s Great Outdoors Festival and step into a world of adventure and natural beauty in Killarney. Swim at sunrise in a crystal-clear lake, conquer Ireland’s highest peak at Carrauntoohil, or kayak through Killarney’s stunning lakes. Whether you run, bike, horse ride, or stroll, there’s no better way to explore the wild heart of Killarney national park and experience its lakes, mountains and park. Savour the taste of Killarney with local food vendors or recharge with a soothing wellness session. From adrenaline-pumping thrills to mindful escapes, the Wander Wild Festival offers something for every adventurer.
Tom Ford Experience at Fota Island Resort
18 April, Fota Island Resort, Cork, more info here
Whether you’re deep in wedding mood boards or just looking for an excuse to gather the girls for an upscale catch-up, Fota Island Resort is dialling up the glamour and the aroma this spring. The five-star resort is teaming up with personal shopper Fiona Lemasney from Brown Thomas Cork, along with fragrance specialists for a one-off afternoon of scent and indulgence in the elegant surroundings of The Cove. A sensory masterclass for anyone planning a milestone, from brides-to-be searching for that elusive big day fragrance to groups of friends looking to elevate their signature scent for the next big party. With sparkling drinks, delicate pastries and savoury treats, bridal parties and anyone planning a special occasion can explore ways to personalise their celebrations with scent.
Cúirt International Festival of Literature
21-26 April, Galway, more info here
This year marks the 41st Cu?irt International Festival of Literature, showcasing a wide selection of world-class authors who are at the pinnacle of their writing careers, as well as introducing you to compelling new voices and debut authors.
The ARC Fashion Show
23 April, RDS Concert Hall, Dublin, more info here
This year the ARC Fashion Show again supports and celebrates the magnificent work of ARC Cancer Support Centres with spectacular presentations from the collections of 30 Irish fashion and accessories designers. The designer line-up includes AndTate by Sharon Hoey, August Night, Caroline Duffy, Celtic Tweed, Helen Cody, Éadach by Sara O’Neill, Emerald & Wax, Fauna with Capulet & Montague, FéRí, Sarah Foy, Helen Hayes, Noema James, Kindred of Ireland, Orla Langan, Magee 1866, Miss She’s Got Knits, Caroline Mitchel and Hazel Greene, Mona Swims, Monessa Joan, Moon+Mellow, Jack Murphy, Original Ireland, Silvia Ortega, Pearl Reddington, Jennifer Slattery, The Linen Shirt Company, Linda Wilson, and Urban Aran.
Catalyst International Film Festival
23-25 April, Limerick, more info here
Returning for its seventh year, Catalyst International Film Festival is rooted in its ethos of representation, the festival highlights under-represented voices on screen and behind the camera, championing filmmakers whose work sparks meaningful conversation and social change. With support from artists including Festival Ambassador Ruth Negga, the festival welcomes schools, youth groups, and community organisations to engage in film, discussion, and shared experience. Audiences can look forward to premieres, panel discussions, filmmaker Q&As, dedicated spaces for dialogue, and the annual Awards Ceremony celebrating bold storytelling that reflects the diverse lived experiences of all people in Limerick and beyond.
Waterford Festival of Food
24-26 April, Dungarvan, more info here
Ireland’s longest-running food festival returns to Dungarvan and West Waterford this April to bring together chefs, producers, growers and food lovers for a weekend of dining experiences, markets, tastings, talks and family activities across Waterford. From food trails and cooking demonstrations to farm visits and artisan markets, the festival celebrates the rich food culture of the region.
POOR by Katriona O’Sullivan at Gate Theatre
Until 26 April, Dublin, more info here
The acclaimed stage adaptation of Katriona O’Sullivan’s powerful memoir, adapted by Sonya Kelly, directed by Gate Theatre Artistic Director Róisín McBrinn has arrived back to the Gate stage following its 2025 run and overwhelming audience demand. Praised for its raw honesty, humour, and humanity, Poor captivates audiences with O’Sullivan’s remarkable true story, a journey from poverty to academia, resilience, and hope. Under the deft adaptation of award-winning playwright Sonya Kelly, the production strikes a deep emotional chord, becoming one of the standout theatrical events of the year.
Cork International Choral Festival
29 April — 3 May, Cork, more info here
An exciting programme of gala concerts, national and international competitions and internationally renowned performances as thousands of participants bring the city to life for five days of wonderful choral music.
Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival
29 April — 10 May, Belfast, more info here
Celebrating its 26th instalment, Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival’s 2026 programme highlights span music performances from Junior Brother and David Keenan, theatrical performances and walking tours, words from Claire Keegan and Louis Theroux, and much more.
Ballydehob Jazz Festival
30 April — 5 May, Ballydehob, West Cork, more info here
Taking place across the May bank holiday weekend, Ballydehob Jazz Festival is celebrating its 20th edition with four days of music and art. Music trails, dance workshops, children’s classes, world premieres and incredible live performances, it’s going to be full of energy, community spirit and joy.
Galway Theatre Festival
30 April — 9 May, Galway, more info here
Galway Theatre Festival 2026 turns up the volume with a bold, homegrown programme. From raw circus theatre to electrified trad and Irish-language reimagining’s, GTF delivers a fierce line-up powered by Galway artists.
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