Already boasting a strong line-up of over 50 acts, the Galway Folk Festival has added extra muscle with more free and ticketed events announced to run over four days from Wednesday, June 5.
Among the already announced headliners are the award winning singer-songwriter Declan O'Rourke, folktronica pioneer Beth Orton, contemporary folk trio Amble, Glaswegian quintet Ímar and fellow Scots Talisk; Eleanor Shanley and Mike Hanrahan, along with Breen Rynne Murray, Seán Keane, Cillian Vallely and David Doocey, Niamh Bury, Niall McCabe, and others.
The festival has revealed nine new additions to the ticketed programme. Colm Gavin is known for his fusion of folk tunes and jazz influences. D. Cullen blends pop-rock with indie melodies. East Clare songstress, Faye Moloney soulfully fuse s country, folk, and blues. Former member of folk group The Fiddle Case, Kieran O'Connell delivers folky-soft rock originals. Sabrina Dinan lays smoky vocals over intricate guitar work, alongside rising star from Lahinch, Martha O'Brien, with Ray Fean & Friends, Sarah Croker and Salje.
“We are particularly excited to unveil our expanded free daytime programme on Saturday and Sunday, so that the festival experience is family-friendly and inclusive for all ages,” says Festival Director, Gary Monroe.
Now in its third year, The Galway Folk Festival boasts a programme of free, family-friendly events taking place on the Market Stage and Tavern Stage in association with Cuppa Tea TV.
Featuring acts such as the Kettleboilers, Colohan and a special focus on youth music, there will also be pop-up shows from some of the headline acts. The Tiny Traders Market is back once again, with stalls of authentic, artisan produce and crafts made by independent vendors with a sustainable ethos.
There will be live interviews and acoustic performances at the Culture Vultures event on Saturday, June 8, and Sunday, June 9, at McBrides Pub from 4pm-6pm with Tony Clayton-Lea, offering insightful conversations with special guests throughout the weekend.
“It’s great to see so many people travel from across Ireland and overseas to be with us and we look forward to a truly exceptional event. It promises to be a celebration of music, culture, and community, bringing together some of the most talented artists from Ireland and beyond.”
For full programme details, and booking, see www.galwayfolkfestival.com