Tunefest 2025 returns to Dungarvan for a weekend of unmissable Irish trad music

The heartbeat of Irish music will pulse through the streets of Dungarvan as TuneFest returns from June 20 to 22, promising a weekend rich in music, heritage and shared experiences.

Now in its fifth year, TuneFest has established itself as a welcoming and authentic gathering for musicians, singers and dancers from across Ireland and beyond. Over the course of the weekend, the town will come alive with concerts, open-air performances, pub sessions and workshops, offering something for everyone. 

This year’s festival welcomes a remarkable gathering of musicians, including the internationally acclaimed Cherish the Ladies, marking their 40th anniversary, alongside Danú who are celebrating their 30th year, and award-winning talents Talisk and The Rising. These incredible artists bring a deep respect for the tradition, a wealth of experience and a powerful connection to their music, having amassed large and loyal fanbases.

However, TuneFest is more than just a series of performances—it’s a living, breathing celebration of the Irish tradition, where the best music is often found in the informal pub sessions that spill out onto the streets. Grattan Square in the centre of town will once again be the heart of the festival, with the outdoor gig rig hosting free performances, while Dungarvan’s renowned pubs will welcome players from near and far for impromptu, spirited sessions.

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At its core, TuneFest is about passing the music forward.

On Saturday, June 21, at Ard Scoil na nDéise, aspiring musicians will have the opportunity to learn from some of the country’s finest players in workshops covering fiddle, concertina, whistle, banjo, accordion and bodhrán. These workshops will culminate in a tutor and student concert, offering a unique opportunity for participants to perform alongside their mentors. Meanwhile, the town itself will be buzzing with youthful talent, as the festival’s busking competition invites young musicians to showcase their skills on the streets of Dungarvan, bringing their own energy and enthusiasm to the tradition.

TuneFest Dungarvan is driven by a dedicated voluntary committee, committed to celebrating and sustaining the town’s strong musical roots. Dungarvan and the surrounding areas of West Waterford have long been home to a thriving traditional music community, influenced by the nearby An Rinn Gaeltacht and an active Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann presence, ensuring that the festival remains authentic and deeply connected to the tradition.

Beyond the music, Dungarvan is a stunning location for a festival weekend, with its coastal charm, welcoming pubs, renowned restaurants, and the breath-taking Waterford Greenway, all making it an ideal destination for visitors to soak in the beauty of the town alongside the joy of the music.

TuneFest Dungarvan is more than a festival—it’s a gathering of people who share a love of traditional music. Whether you’re settling in for an intimate session, joining the crowds at an open-air performance, or playing tunes late into the night, this is a weekend that captures the true spirit of Irish music.

For more details on tickets, workshops, and the full festival schedule, visit www.tunefest.ie