Boyne Music Festival

The Boyne Music Festival is set to return for four days of music, art, film, and cultural events, taking place from Thursday, July 23 to Sunday, July 26, 2026. The festival invites audiences to explore historic venues in Drogheda, Slane, and beyond, with specific locations including Townley Hall, Slane Castle, and St. Peter's Church of Ireland, Drogheda.

The 2026 festival is themed "Forgotten Spaces," aiming to rediscover Ireland's atmospheric historic locations through music, poetry, film, visual art, and conversation. While showcasing beautifully preserved venues, the theme also highlights buildings left to decay, whose stories are fading from memory. The program includes chamber music, poetry, and song, featuring both Irish and international artists such as violist Paul Cassidy, cellist Jacqueline Thomas, Ulster Orchestra leader Iona Petcu-Colan, and mezzo-soprano Lotte Betts-Dean.

Beyond concerts, the festival offers a diverse range of activities. These include a screening of Philip Denvir’s documentary "Leave Only Footprints" followed by a discussion on dereliction, a photography exhibition by Irishmanlost showcasing abandoned spaces in Ireland, and participatory events like a poetry writing workshop with Kate Wakeling and a performance workshop for amateur string players. Family events, talks, and tours also complete the weekend program.