Unique folk festival returns to Mayo off-shore island

A diverse line-up of artists and events will adorn the second edition of the Clare Island Folk Festival, taking place from September 8 to 10 off the Mayo coastline.

The festival will bring together island musicians and creators, an impressive line-up of leading folk and traditional artists, as well as a rich representation of musicians from different communities in the West of Ireland, including Ukrainian and Kurdish traditional singers.

Festival chairman and Clare Island singer-songwriter Niall McCabe said: “The success of our inaugural 2022 festival gave us a platform to be even more ambitious in 2023.

"This year’s event is more eclectic, more diverse and – we hope – even more appealing.”

“Musicians and creators love coming to islands because they receive such a warm and appreciative welcome.

"We are confident that this year’s fusion of well-established names with a diverse blend of local and international flavours will ensure a weekend to remember for all.

"We are especially thrilled to welcome West of Ireland folk singers from backgrounds as diverse as Ukraine and Kurdistan.

"Their songs speak to universal themes of love, loss and displacement - this resonates strongly for island communities.

“We hope to see a great mix of visitors and locals participate in this very special small festival”.

For more info and tickets: www.clareislandfolkfestival.com

Clare Island Folk Festival is generously supported by the Arts Council.