Resonance Festival: 2026 line-up revealed, featuring David McWilliams, Gemma Hayes, David Gillick and more

Leading voices from the worlds of economics, culture, sport, media and music are set to gather on the shores of Lough Derg next month, for the highly anticipated fourth edition of Resonance Festival – taking place across Killaloe, Co. Clare and Ballina, Co. Tipperary on Wednesday, February 11, and Thursday, February 12.

You can look forward to talks, performances and shared experiences at the not-for-profit, volunteer-led micro-festival, which moves this year from its traditional September slot to the quieter post-Christmas period.

Among the highlights of the 2026 programme are economist David McWilliams, Olympian David Gillick, former RTÉ journalist Cathy Halloran, Body & Soul co-founder Avril Stanley, and New York Times bestselling author Monica Parker. There will also be a special performance at the festival headline event, on Thursday, February 12, by acclaimed singer-songwriter Gemma Hayes.

David Gillick

New elements of the festival's programme for 2026 include curated film screenings, panel discussions and author reading events.

Special film screenings will include Underland, based on the bestselling book by Robert Macfarlane, and Wilding, the acclaimed documentary exploring nature restoration, rewilding and new ways of reconnecting with the natural world.

As part of the 2026 announcement, car sharing service GoCar has been confirmed as the festival's title sponsor, under a new three-year partnership – which will support "the continued development of the volunteer-led festival and its focus on regional connection and sustainability," a statement reads.

Steve Coakley, Chair of Resonance Festival, has said that the move to February reflects a desire to strengthen cultural life in the region during the quieter months.

“Resonance is about bringing people together in meaningful ways," he reflects. "Moving the festival to February allows us to contribute to the cultural life of the area at a time when activity is traditionally lower, while staying true to the values and pace that define the festival.”

Alongside the live festival, Resonance is also launching a new podcast, supported by Homely, featuring conversations with past and present speakers, including economist Stephen Kinsella and PGA Tour professional Devon Fox.

Resonance Festival is also supported by Ei Electronics, the Western Development Commission, Clare County Council and Tipperary County Council.

Tickets for Resonance Festival 2026 range from €10 – €35, and are on sale now here.