Féile na Sionainne

Féile na Sionainne is an eagerly awaited annual festival celebrating music, song, and dance in Athlone and its surrounding areas in Ireland. The 2026 edition is scheduled to run from July 25 to August 3.

The festival officially launches on Saturday, July 25, at Moore Hall with "The Devil's in the Dance Hall." This event features The Gralton Big Band and award-winning dancer Edwina Guckian guiding attendees through a 1930s dancehall reenactment, inviting the audience to join in various dance styles. On the same day, Coláiste Chiarain hosts a series of music workshops for improvers and advanced players, covering instruments such as button accordion, flute/tin whistle, singing, piano, banjo, fiddle, and concertina.

From July 31 to August 3, the festival continues with a range of activities including an inclusive trad disco at St Kieran's Community Centre on July 31, which offers music therapy and try-an-instrument sessions. Throughout August 1 and 2, local landmark pubs like The Coosan Tavern, The Dog and Duck Pub, McNeill's Bar, Walsh's Bar, and Sean's Bar will host numerous performances. Both evenings on August 1 and 2 will conclude with major stage events at Athlone Castle.

Féile na Sionainne, now in its fourth year, prides itself on being all-inclusive and welcoming to everyone, including age-appropriate children's events. It runs concurrently with the popular Athlone River Festival from July 31 to August 2, promoting the area's rich history, heritage, and culture.