Everything You Need to Know About… Tyneside Irish Festival
The North East’s biggest celebration of all things Irish is back this October
The annual Tyneside Irish Festival is back this October bringing a packed programme of music, dance, talks and more to Newcastle.
We’ve put together a handy guide with all the info you need to make the most of this fantastic festival.
What is the Tyneside Irish Festival?
It’s an annual celebration of all things Irish organised by the Tyneside Irish Cultural Society that happens every October. Now in its 38th year, the festival is a firm fixture in Newcastle’s cultural calendar that brings together the region’s Irish community.
When is it happening?
This year’s festival is taking place from Friday 18th October to Sunday 27th October.
What’s going on during the festival?
There’s a packed programme of events with something for everyone – from music and talks to film, food and family fun.
Harpist Fiana Ni Chonaill will be playing a set on Saturday 19th October to coincide with Ireland’s National Harp Day, while Irish folk singer-songwriter Tommy Sands is teaming up with peace campaigner Bernadette McAliskey on Friday 25th October for an evening of music and discussion.
Writer and documentary-maker Manchán Magan is stopping by on Sunday 20th October with his unique show Arán & Im (Bread & Butter) which sees him bake sourdough bread while offering insights in the Irish language. Meanwhile, film fans can catch a screening of Mothers of Peace – a documentary about two women and their efforts to bring communities together and end violence in Northern Ireland – on Thursday 24th October.
The fun doesn’t end there either. There’s plenty to do during the festival’s closing weekend too with a Ceilidh Supper, Family Fun Day and its legendary End of Festival Party. Check out the full Tyneside Irish Festival programme and start planning!
Where is it happening?
Most events take place at the Tyneside Irish Centre on Gallowgate in Newcastle city centre, but a couple of events are happening at St Aloysius Parish Hall in Hebburn and The Word in South Shields.
How much are tickets?
General admission tickets cost from £6 (concession tickets are available too), but quite a few Tyneside Irish Festival events are free to attend – see the festival programme for more details.
How do I book tickets?
Tickets for all events – both paid-for and free – are available to reserve via Eventbrite.
Tyneside Irish Festival takes places from 18th-27th October at Tyneside Irish Centre and other venues. For more information and to book tickets, check out the full festival programme.
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