WATCH: Laois Tourism shares exciting teaser ahead of Portlaoise Tradfest
Portlaoise Tradfest to bring talent and colour to Laois on May bank holiday weekend
There is excitement in Laois as Portlaoise Tradfest gradually grows closer.
Laois Tourism has shared an exciting video of last year's Tradfest events and performances, generating even more anticipation for this year's festival.
Portlaoise Tradfest 2026 will take place from Friday May 1 to Sunday May 3.
"Portlaoise will come alive with a brilliant celebration of traditional Irish music, with concerts, workshops, sessions and plenty of festival atmosphere across the town," a spokesperson for Laois Tourism announced.
"A fantastic weekend to soak up the sound and spirit of trad in the heart of Laois. Plan your visit and enjoy one of the standout music weekends of the season in Laois," they said.
The festival will see performances from a wide range of popular Irish trad bands and musicians.
Altan will perform at the Dunamaise Arts Centre on the Friday, celebrating 40 years on the road. Led by Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, their music remains as vibrant and emotionally rich as ever.
Irish Dance Music (IDM) band and viral sensation CLADA will entertain fans at Kavanagh's Bar and Venue on Saturday May 2, blending Irish trad with contemporary genres like pop and rock.
Sunday will see a special performance from Dublin-born singer-songwriter George Murphy, also performing at Kavanagh's. George burst onto the Irish music scene at just 17 following RTÉ’s You’re a Star, signing to Sony Ireland.
A wide range of music workshops will take place on Saturday May 2, from 11am to 1pm to at the Tower Hill Building, Dunamase College, Portlaoise.
All workshops are aimed at an intermediate to advanced level of playing. Two to three years of experience on your instrument is advised before signing up for class’s. Only Àine McGeeney’s beginner whistle workshop is for students playing for two years or less.
For more information on Portlaoise Tradfest, see their website.