CROÍLÁR Music & Arts Festival returns to Athlone for second year

CROÍLÁR Music & Arts Festival is officially returning to Athlone for its second edition this April, continuing its mission to give a platform to up-and-coming artists of all forms. Following its breakout success last year, the 2026 festival is set to transform the town into a cultural hub from April 17 to 19.

Founded in 2024 by Jack O’Meara and Eddie Connolly, the festival was born from a vision to bring a world-class arts event to the heart of Ireland. To turn that idea into a reality, they assembled a brilliant committee, and the organizers emphasize that the festival remains an absolute team effort across the board. Today, the event is driven by 25 committed committee members who handle every aspect of the festival's operations.

Reflecting on the impact of the inaugural event, organizers noted the incredible age diversity in the crowd. The 2025 festival saw everyone from young children to attendees in their 80s—at one point both were seen dancing together—proving that there truly is something for everyone.

Speaking on the work involved, Eddie Connolly praised the collective effort: "The committee we have is full of unbelievably talented people who care about bringing something special like this to the Midlands of Ireland so much—it would be nothing without this brilliant team. If you meet them over the weekend, give them a high five or a pint!"

CROÍLÁR provides a massive platform for music, comedy, and the arts. The scale of the festival has grown significantly for its second year; at the peak of the weekend, 10 venues will be programmed simultaneously, offering a non-stop stream of culture across 12 locations in the town—including the return of performances in the stunning setting of St. Mary’s Church.

The program features a wide range of music, from high-energy bands and solo singers to late-night DJ sets and unannounced secret sets, visual arts and comedy, featuring live painting sessions and dedicated comedy stages, and storytelling events similar to last year which were a major highlight and all sold out.

Other features include yoga and breathwork sessions, as well as a dedicated area at Baysports featuring jacuzzis and saunas, a vibrant outdoor space featuring DJs and vendors, creating a lively festival atmosphere in the heart of the town, and a Gaeltacht event accompanied by traditional music.

The festival also serves as an open invitation to the creative community. Organizers are constantly looking for enthusiastic people who want to share their ideas or their art, and they encourage anyone in the arts to get involved.

Fans are encouraged to keep their eyes peeled on the CROÍLÁR Instagram and follow their social media accounts for all act announcements. Tickets are available now, with weekend passes priced at €64.85 at croilar.ie.

Applications for volunteers and promo staff are currently open via the website for those who want to be part of the team this April.