Details of the 2025 Drogheda Arts Festival, which takes place from May 2^nd to 4^th with an exciting line-up of live music, exhibitions and street performances, have just been announced.

Showcasing both local and international talent, this year’s festival will be a vibrant fusion of art, culture, and creativity featuring a diverse array of performances and entertainment designed to engage and inspire people of all ages.

Hosted in the heart of Drogheda beside the river Boyne at the Scotch Hall Plaza, the festival’s big family day out will delight and enchant children and families with street entertainment, arts demonstrations and music.

In the heart of the town a selection of renowned and emerging artists from various disciplines, including visual arts, theatre and music will feature in the Droichead Arts Centre, Highlanes Gallery, The Former Methodist church and The Little Duke Theatre.

Friday 2nd May

The festival will begin with the launch of Artist Liam O’ Callaghan’s - Bit Symphony in The Former Methodist Church in Laurence Street, and an overview of what’s to come over the weekend.

Sat 3rd May

AI: OK. Dr. Martin Clancy delivers a fascinating talk at 11am on the implications of Artificial Intelligence on the music industry and what we can learn from it. Free event; but booking essential.

The Walk, Talk and Chalk tour explores the rich history of Drogheda, exposing hidden gems of everyday art with Little Twit creator and Artist Caoimhe McCarthy. Stopping to create art on the go, this tour will guide you through the process of creating your own images and give you a piece of Drogheda to take home. Tours start at 11.30am & 2pm.

Improvising Tradition, an afternoon of traditional Irish music at 2.30pm in the Highlanes Gallery will delight and entertain audiences. Featuring musicians Sárán Mulligan, Tadhg Mulligan, Muirine Nic Róibín, Colm McGonigle and Seán Ó Casaide.

Big Day out at Scotch Hall

Drogheda Arts festival invite the whole family down to Scotch Hall for an afternoon of fun and entertainment. Kicking off at 1pm we will have music by Drogheda BrassBand, The blue Belles, and up and coming jazz electronic duo bbft.

There will be a fine display of street performances by Jitterbug Jackson and Entre Nos who will no doubt amaze, enthral and give you some real belly laughs. Miss Bella A GoGo will be there to guide you through the exciting day, while also performing her enchanting act the Never Ending Story. Additional street entertainment will be provided by Love Drogheda.

Local artists, Creative Circle, and Gatothor Cerámica will have demonstrations to inspire any budding artists. The day will also feature “meet your Orchestra “with Drogheda’s Community Orchestra providing insights and inspiration for classical music enthusiasts inside the centre.

To add to The Big Day Out, a special edition of the Cottage Market takes place in Scotch Hall, showcasing the work of talented local artists and makers where you'll find something truly unique.

Zine lovers will get a chance to browse through the Drogheda Zine stall, while enjoying the finest Mexican street food from Biddos, and coffee shops within the centre itself. Join us for this creative celebration of the great wealth of talent we have in our town.

The evening will round off in the Droichead Arts Centre with a one-off exclusive performance by Warp Record Stalwarts– Seefeel, marking their highly anticipated live return following on from their first new album in 13 years ‘Everything Squared’, in conjunction with thirty three 45. Tickets can be booked through the DAF website.

Sunday 4th May

Local actress and storyteller Grainne Rafferty presents Around the Head, an uplifting life affirming performance, taking place in the Little Duke Theatre. Tickets available through the DAF website.

Closing the festival on Sunday night in the intimate surroundings of Gerrard’s Church,Tom Dunne (Something Happens) and Fiachna O’Braonain (Hothouse Flowers) will perform and entertain bringing an evening of songs and stories. The support on the night is local local singer song writer Sarah O’Brien and friends.

Festival Extra

There is so much more on offer around the town over the weekend with FestivalExtra. One not to be missed is Night Moves at Droichead Arts Centre, a late-night club featuring Oisín Leech with support from Dotts O' Connor, and ambient music from DJ Emmie Lou. Curated by Stephen McArdle, audiences will enjoy atmospheric music in the gallery while experiencing a bespoke art installation by visual artist Vivienne Byrne. Tickets available from Droichead Arts Centre.

Look out also for Festival Extra’s late night gig at the Watchtower in McHughs; line up to follow.

“We worked really hard this year to bring a diverse programme showcasing local talent and bringing unique experiences to this year’s festival” said Festival coordinator Brenda McComeskey.

“This year’s festival is all about celebrating the power of creativity and the way art can unite us. We’re committed to providing an inclusive and accessible platform for both emerging and established artists to showcase their work and engage with the public.”

For full programme details, ticket pricing, and festival updates, visit www.droghedaartsfestival.ie   

Drogheda Arts Festival acknowledges the support of its principal funder Louth County Council, and the support of Scotch Hall, Thirty Three 45, Love Drogheda BIDS and The Cottage Market.