Tonnta Festival 2026

Galway's Irish language and bilingual festival is back for its third year. Taking place during Brigid's Bank Holiday weekend, Tonnta is a vibrant celebration of Goddess & St. Brigid- honouring her legacy through art, music, culture, and community. Tonnta offers an inclusive, welcoming space for everyone to engage with the Irish language vibrantly, whether they are fluent or just starting out. 

We are thrilled to announce an exceptional headline line-up featuring:

• Imelda May – presenting an unforgettable, intimate evening where she will be offering fans a rare chance to experience her music in its purest form. The night will blend soulful, acoustic versions of her songs with her celebrated poetry and warm, spontaneous storytelling. 
• IMRAM x Róisín Seoighe– bringing their renowned fusion of literature, Irish-language artistry, and music. Taylor Swift's renowned albums Folklore and Evermore are beautifully translated into Irish very special guest Jessie Dingle. 

Alongside our headline acts, Tonnta Festival features a rich programme that puts celebrating the Irish language at its forefront:

• Exciting up-and-coming Irish talents, including Huartán and Bog Bodies
• Mnásome Geeze join this explosive combo of The Wild Geeze, Growler and Róisín El Charif as they celebrate Brigid in all her blazing glory
•  Join the Brigids workshop day through craft-making, storytelling and reading through Irish. Storytelling sessions inspired by Brigid’s mythology and legacy, with the opportunity to create your own straw mummers hat and brooch with Annie June Callaghan. 
• A family-friendly Cartoon Saloon film screening of Puffin Rock And The New Friends and Song of the Sea for young audiences as Gaeilge 
• And much, much more!

These performances anchor a diverse programme of music, art, literature, and community-led events that reimagine the spirit of Brigid for a modern audience. The festival invites fluent speakers, learners, and first-time participants alike to enjoy a diverse programme of music, art, wellness, storytelling, workshops, late-night events, and family experiences, all through Irish or bilingual. With 24 events across 15 venues, including 14 free events, Tonnta celebrates the Irish language as a living, creative, and welcoming part of Galway city life.

Bígí Linn!

Also check out other Festivals in Galway, Arts events in Galway.