Garageland Galaxyz touches down for Cruinniú na nÓg 2026

The countdown is on for Cruinniú na nÓg 2026, and Westmeath will light up with Garageland Galaxyz at The Dean Crowe Theatre, Athlone for the day on Saturday 6 June (12-5.30pm).

Garageland Galaxyz is Ireland’s biggest youth-powered music movement, and the event gives artists aged 12–19 the chance to take over a real stage.

Young singers, rappers, bands, DJs, producers, instrumentalists, and creators of every kind will be showcasing their work as part of Cruinniú na nÓg.

Teens can expect a full festival atmosphere: live performances, creative workshops, and collabs across Ireland. A nationwide livestream will be connecting young performers from every county.

YoYo Café

A workshop day on May 23 from 11am at YoYo Café in Mullingar will give teens the opportunity to meet, practise, and sharpen their skills in advance of the event in June. The sessions offer hands-on guidance in performance, songwriting, production, stagecraft, and confidence-building.

Westmeath arts officer and Creative Ireland co-ordinator Nicola Gilcreest said: “Music has the power to bring people together, and this year’s flagship Cruinniú na nÓg event does exactly that.

“Our young musicians are stepping forward with talent, confidence, and creativity, and we’re delighted to give them a platform that showcases the best of what Westmeath has to offer.”

Want In?

If you are aged 12–19 and ready to perform, create, or be part of something massive, email info@garageland.ie with the subject line: ‘YES GALAXYZ 26 WESTMEATH’ to get involved.

The workshop and event will be delivered by Garageland Galaxyz in partnership with Creative Westmeath, which is operated by Westmeath County Council, with funding from Creative Ireland.

Garageland Galaxyz is delivered with support from youth organisations, ETBs, and partners including Music Generation, Foróige, RTÉ, IMRO, Hot Press Magazine, and others.