Headfest officially got underway on Wednesday evening with the launch of an expanded programme celebrating the history, ecology and cultural importance of Lough Corrib and the communities connected to it.
This year’s festival has partnered with Corrib Beo and the Corrib Catchment Partnership to deliver a wide-ranging series of talks, exhibitions, biodiversity events and recreational activities running throughout the June Bank Holiday weekend.
Organisers say the initiative forms a major part of this year’s festival theme of land, water and community, aiming to both celebrate the Corrib and raise awareness around the environmental challenges facing the lake and its wider catchment.
The programme opened on Wednesday night in Heneghan’s with a history double-header featuring architect Dr Paul Naessens speaking on Cáraigin Castle, alongside local historian Willie Henry exploring the mystery and history of Inchagoill.
Tonight’s programme shifts focus towards environmental issues with “Lough Corrib – The Catchment and Its Pressures”, bringing together speakers from Sustainable Water Network, Local Authorities Water Programme, Corrib Beo and the Corrib Catchment Partnership for discussions around water quality, conservation and the future sustainability of the Corrib catchment.
Friday evening’s talks will examine water quality and sustainable farming practices, with discussions covering excess phosphates, waterway protection and practical approaches to sustainable agriculture.
Saturday’s programme will include heritage boat tours departing from Kilbeg Pier, with historical commentary delivered onboard by Willie Henry and Dr Paul Naessens. Later that afternoon, Bill Daly will present a talk exploring the historical role of Lough Corrib in connecting communities around the lake.
Nature and biodiversity take centre stage on Sunday with a Bird and Biodiversity Talk and Walk at Sandy Banks, led by Marie Louise Heffernan and Kay Synott, focusing on birdlife, butterflies and biodiversity around Corrib and Mask.
Festivalgoers will also have the opportunity to attend a screening of Listen to the Land Speak, the acclaimed documentary featuring the late Manchán Magan and directed by Maurice O’Brien.
Throughout the weekend, Moyne Villa Clubhouse will host a range of free exhibitions and audio-visual installations featuring wildlife photography, environmental displays and educational material connected to the Corrib catchment.
Headfest Chairman Liam McDonagh said the expanded Corrib programme reflects the festival’s growing emphasis on local heritage, sustainability and community engagement.
“Lough Corrib is at the heart of this area and of so many communities around it,” he said. “This year we wanted to create a programme that gives people the opportunity to enjoy it, learn more about it and hear from the people working to protect it.”
Founded in 2018, Corrib Beo was established in response to growing concerns around pollution, biodiversity loss and declining water quality in Lough Corrib. The partnership focuses on themes including water quality, biodiversity, fishing, education, heritage, recreation, tourism and climate action.
The group works alongside state agencies, local communities, businesses and environmental stakeholders to support the sustainable development of the lake and its surrounding catchment, while also helping shape a long-term vision for the future health of the region over the coming decades.
All events in the Corrib programme are free to attend, with organisers encouraging people to book online or attend on the day. Headfest 2026 continues across Headford and surrounding areas until Monday, June 1.
