Rory Gallagher Symposium to take place in Ballyshannon as part of this weekend's festival

The Rory Gallagher Symposium is set to be held in Ballyshannon, Donegal, on May 30 as part of the Rory Gallagher International Festival.

Marking the 30th anniversary of Rory’s passing, this year's four-day festival features 40 acts across 15 stages with a combination of ticketed headline concerts, free open-air street gigs and cultural events.

Some of the acts set to perform across the weekend include Billy F Gibbons and the BFG Band, Gerry McAvoy's Band of Friends and Johnny Gallagher & Boxty.

The symposium will take place at the Abbey Arts Centre, as a panel of guests, close friends and family members gather to discuss the life, and legacy left by the Irish rock star.

The event will feature memories and perspectives from Donal Gallagher, Rory’s brother and manager, alongside Ed Christman, Executive Editor-Finance of Billboard, who witnessed Rory performing live over three decades while covering the international music business.

Fans attending will also hear insights from Donal on his Rory Gallagher biography, due for release later in 2026. Rory’s nephew Eoin, will discuss other tribute projects.

Following the presentation, audiences will enjoy the premiere live screening of  Do You Read Me – Rory Gallagher Festival, a feature film exploring the Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival, created by filmmakers Stephen O'Dowd and Sarah Ploss.

The afternoon takes place from 12.30pm on Saturday, May 30 at the Rory Gallagher Theatre, located within the Abbey Arts Centre tickets are available on the festival's website.