Countdown to Rostrevor’s Fiddlers Green Festival

THE Fiddler’s Green International Folk Festival makes a welcome return to the picturesque village of Rostrevor, County Down from Wednesday July 16th to Sunday July 20th for a celebration of traditional Irish music, storytelling, dance and community.

Nestling between the beauty of Carlingford Lough and the splendour of the Mourne Mountains, this acclaimed festival blends world class music with a family friendly atmosphere to create a uniquely interactive and inclusive event.

This year’s line-up once again meets the demanding criteria set by the festival team.

The prestigious Hall of Fame Award honours Sean Keane, whose unmistakable voice and lifelong contribution to Irish music has enthralled generations of fans.

Making a welcome return to the festival is the beloved Cara Dillon, and of course it would not be Fiddler’s Green without The Sands Family.

The Henry Girls, Catherine Craig and Brian Willoughby, Martin Simpson, Matt McGinn and  Niall McCabe are just some of the well known and highly respected artists also featured making this years Fiddler’s Green a festival not to be missed. 

Once again the popular 20 Singers / 20 Songs concert will provide a showcase of the amazing local talent in Rostrevor and its surrounding area, and it always kicks off the evening concerts with a great buzz, setting the perfect tone for the nights of music that follow.

This years festival also has a few surprises in store.

Dana, the original “Derry Girl” and indeed a former village resident, will play a special concert of her favourite songs in An Cuan on Sunday (July 20) at 1 pm.

Football legend Pat Jennings will be a special guest at the Music of Healing event hosted by Tommy Sands.

While Sean Keane will bring the festival to a close on Sunday night, Monday 21st will feature a special screening of the documentary film From a Forest to a Fiddle, for which Zoë composed the soundtrack, followed by a live performance from Zoë Conway and John McIntyre

Fiddler’s Green Festival also hosts a vibrant music school with workshops in traditional instruments and song, led by renowned tutors including Tiarnán Ó Duinchinn (one of the most respected pipers in the world), Niall Murphy, a masterful traditional fiddler known for his exceptional skill and energy, and Pol Huellot, a highly respected flute player who brings his unique style and expertise to the programme.

Alongside the music school, the festival features a ceili on the outdoor stage, story-telling circles, guided walks through the ancient oak forest and deeper into The Mournes, plus an Environmental Hub with talks, workshops and exhibitions, a well-being programme including yoga sessions, and a full week-long children’s programme providing family events.

At the heart of the festival, as always, is Rostrevor’s warm, welcoming community — with traditional sessions every night in the local pubs and a dedicated Céilí House where everyone is invited to join in.

The festival comes alive through participation and spontaneity, making it a place where strangers become friends and the whole village feels like one big musical family.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit our website.

www.fiddlersgreenfestival.com