The annual Temple Bar Tradfest will take place this January, and because of restrictions events will begin at earlier times. Events and live gigs will be from 12.30pm to 6.30pm in various locations around the city, not just in Temple Bar, from Wednesday 26 to Sunday 30 January. Tickets are on sale now.
January: Temple Bar Tradfest Coming
Tradfest began in Temple Bar in 2005 and in the beginning, it was a boutique festival. Over the years it has grown into one of the most anticipated music festivals of the year. The timing has always been perfect for a New Year boost. This year, despite the restrictions there will be plenty of music to enjoy from dozens of artistes and musicians.
The timing of events will comply with the current Covid-19 restrictions on pubs and venues requiring them to close at 8pm. All events will be seated and guests will have to comply with Covid-19 regulations. Venues will be supplied with the Novaertus air disinfection units to ensure a healthy environment.
The headline concerts and event this year will feature
Anuna and M’Anam
The Dublin Legends Ralph McTell and Stockton’s Wing
Kila and friends, and they will have some exciting circus acts at the show
A tribute to Joe Burke with Frankie Gavin, Daithí Gormley and Catherine McHugh
Maria Doyle Kennedy
Cór Cuill Aodha
Fairport Convention
Venues include Collins Barracks, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin Castle, the Pepper Cannister Church, and the National Stadium.
The Smithwick Sessions
The sponsored Smithwicks Sessions will provide free access to lots of well-known artists appearing at the festival. They include Paddy Casey, George Murphy and the Rising Sons, the Kilkennys, Victoria Keating and the Colonials and lots more.
These events will be in pubs in the Temple Bar area. The Sessions are free and entry is on a first come basis. All gigs will be seated with table service. Numbers in pubs will comply with Covid-19 regulations.
Tradfringe and Tradkids
Events in Tradfringe including the showing of the documentary about accordion players Faith and Branco, the history of Irish dance and a genealogy workshop. There will be events for children in the Ark in Eustace Street.
To explore the growth in Irish traditional music, there will be a seminar in Collins Barracks on The Futures of Irish Music. It will be hosted by music and academic professionals. The seminar will facilitate a discussion about how Irish music can centre equality, diversity and inclusion moving forward as both an artform and as an industry. Hear from speakers informed by academic research and lived experience about the Futures of Irish Music. It will be in Collins Barracks, Wednesday 26 January, 3pm
Tickets are from €9.99 to €34.99 and can be bought online here. There a useful option to buy tickets for a number of events together.
Funders and supporters of the Temple Bar Tradfest include Fáilte Ireland, The Temple Bar Company, The Arts Council, Culture Ireland, OPW, Dublin City Council and more. Experience The Temple Bar Tradfest while exploring the beauty of Ireland with our detailed travel guide for Ireland.