The Russell Weekend Festival

The Russell Weekend Festival celebrates the breadth of traditional Irish music, dance, and storytelling in North West Clare through a mix of performances and participatory events. The festival brings together experienced practitioners and emerging artists, while also creating paid performance and teaching opportunities for younger musicians and performers, with fair remuneration and subsistence.

Accessibility and inclusion are central to the festival’s approach, with events designed to be welcoming to people of all ages, backgrounds, and levels of experience. This year places particular emphasis on younger participants, with dedicated workshops and recital opportunities for children and teenagers.

The programme also reflects Clare’s Development Plan values of recognition, collaboration, and integrity. Artists are consulted throughout the planning process, and alongside ticketed performances, the festival offers open sessions for learners, including singing circles, intermediate music sessions, and dance workshops.

Community heritage is an important element of the weekend. This year includes a free storytelling event focused on Doolin folklore, featuring pupils from Doolin National School alongside local storytellers. Intergenerational participation is encouraged throughout the festival, with professional musicians supporting sessions across venues in Doolin, including O’Connor’s Pub, McGann’s Pub, McDermott’s Pub, Russell’s Bar, and Fitzpatrick’s Bar.

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