Experience the beating heart of Irish music
Welcome to Cuisle Cheoil Weekend 2026, Gorey's annual festival celebrating traditional Irish traditional music and culture. Run by Wexford Traditional Weekend CLG, a not-for-profit company set up to preserve the legacy of the hosting of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024/5 , why not join us for an unforgettable experience filled with memorable events, talented artists, and a true sense of community. We are delighted to share our passion for Irish traditional music, song, dance and culture with you.
Our festival's spirit
Cuisle Cheoil Weekend is more than just a festival; it's a celebration of Irish heritage and artistic expression. We are dedicated to bringing together musicians and enthusiasts from near and far, fostering a vibrant atmosphere where traditions are honoured and new memories are made. Our commitment lies in creating a truly enriching cultural experience for everyone, local and visitor alike.
Our journey so far
From its inspired beginnings, Cuisle Cheoil Weekend grew into a cherished annual event. However, it proved difficult to sustain the level of dedication required to run the event, and it fell into abeyance.
This year, with a revived festival, organised by the Gorey sub-committee of WexTrad, we will strive to elevate the festival experience, showcasing emerging talents alongside established artists. Our journey is one of passion, community, and the enduring power of Irish traditional music, song and dance Explore our history and see how we've evolved.
What's on at Cuisle Cheoil
Featured events
Weekend opening and Gorey showcase
Kick off the festival with an evening of performance from renowned local traditional Irish musicians, followed by a lively pub session.
Traditional music and singing sessions
Join lively, informal sessions held in local pubs, where musicians gather to play tunes and singers to sing their ballads. Everyone is welcome to listen or join in.
Set dancing Céilí
Enjoy an afternoon of traditional Irish set dancing with a top céilí trio. Fun for all ages and skill levels.
Recitals
The previous Cuisle Cheoil Weekend had an enviable reputation for bringing top Irish traditional performers to the south east and this year's weekend promises to be as memorable. Join us as some of the top and trending Irish traditional music performers visit the sunny south east once again during the month of August, following on from the county's hugely successful hosting of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in 2024 and 2025.
Masterclasses
Improve your skills with workshops in music, song and dance led by top Irish performers, focusing on specific instruments like the fiddle, flute, button accordion, concertina, banjo etc. These workshops are facilitated by Tuaisceart CCÉ.
Please note : This year's workshops are suitable for experienced performers only.
If you are an improving/intermediate performer, please consider attending the workshops at our sister festival, held in nearby New Ross the previous weekend on Saturday August 15th.
CD launches
Several of our visiting lineups will choose to showcase their recent recordings with a short but unforgettable sample performance.
Lectures and Presentations
Gather around for informative talks by local and visiting speakers, delving in to the depths of tradition .
Festival highlight
Recital in Christchurch Gorey - Saturday Evening at 7 p.m.
John Wynne (flute) and Tom Morrow (fiddle)
Gary Curley (accordion), Stephen McKee (banjo) Ryan O'Donnell (bouzouki) with guest vocalist Tracy Ryan
Daithi Gormley (accordion) and Elaine Reilly (banjo)
Admission €10 (adult) / €20 (2 adults + accompanying children u.18 FOC) u18 €5
Set Dancing Céili - Sunday afternoon
The wonderful Templehouse Trio (Séamus Meehan - accordion, Roma Casey - fiddle and Mary Corcoran - keyboard) are the confirmed band for the céilí in The Loch Garman Arms Hotel on Sunday, August 23rd 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Callers: Liz and Syl.
Admission €15 (including tea/coffee/sandwiches)
"Well done to all involved - fantastic concert. Colm O'Donnell made the hair stand with his version of Boolavogue - stunning!"
Caroline Flynn Higgins 2014 concert
Get in touch
Various locations
Gorey, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Phone
085 1671447
wextrad@gmail.com
Cuisle Cheoil is generously supported for 2026 through these funders
