Clare Island launches new folk music festival this September

On September 9-11th of this year, Clare Island will host the inaugural edition of their Folk Festival. This festival will highlight indigenous island traditions and artists, with a stellar lineup of Irish folk and traditional musicians.

The festival will take place across Clare Island, Co. Mayo, an offshore community rich with tradition and creativity in music, singing and spoken word art forms.

"We are hoping the festival's exciting mix of local and visiting talent will inspire some great creativity and collaboration," explains Festival Chairman Niall McCabe. "Musicians typically love coming to islands because they receive such a warm and appreciative welcome. The Saw Doctors famously wrote their classic song 'Clare Island' after many visits."

Some acts already announced include John Spillane, Pauline Scanlon, Niamh Regan, and a trio of Tara Breet, Josephine Marsh and Laoise Kelly. Many more acts are yet to be announced.

The annual festival will also incorporate events aimed to celebrate the community's culture and heritage. They hope to establish themselves as an important festival for folk music and culture for years to come.

More details can be found on clareislandfolkfestival.com.