Countdown begins as Ballinamore Family Festival set to thrill for a whole week

The much-anticipated Ballinamore Family Festival is just around the corner, kicking off on August 10 and running through until August 17. This vibrant and lively celebration promises a jam-packed schedule filled with a wide variety of activities and events for people of all ages to enjoy.

Recognised as one of South Leitrim’s biggest annual highlights, the festival draws large crowds from near and far to the town of Ballinamore, where the community comes alive with music, entertainment, and celebration. 

With nearly six decades of tradition, the Ballinamore Family Festival has firmly established itself as a staple event in the region’s summer calendar, and it proudly continues to offer many free events that cater to families and visitors alike.

The festival is especially well-known for its free open-air concerts, bustling atmosphere, and a full week of entertainment, a rare and cherished feature, as few festivals of this length still remain in Ireland today. 

Among this year’s most exciting highlights is a performance by country music sensation Cliona Hagan, taking place at 3pm on Sunday, August 10. Also set to light up the stage are Spring Break, an 80s-themed band delivering high-energy hits and neon-fuelled nostalgia, scheduled to perform at 9pm that same day at the platform.

An official opening ceremony will also take place on August 10 at 4pm, led by John Harte in recognition of his many years of service and dedication to the Ballinamore community. He will be joined by his grandson, Naoise McManus, who will be honoured for his remarkable achievement as the 2025 All-Ireland College Boxing Champion.

Throughout the week, festivalgoers can also look forward to performances from groups such as the Wren Boys, the Ballinamore Ukulele Group, Mike Denver, Rhythm and Sticks, and All Folk’d Up, among many others.

One of the festival’s most iconic and eagerly anticipated events is the Ballinamore Agricultural Show, returning for its 63rd year on Tuesday, August 12. Taking place in Creamer’s Field on Golf Links Road, the field will open to the public at 9am, offering a day filled with exciting competitions, displays, and prizes. 

Widely regarded as one of the top shows in the region, the event attracts exhibitors and spectators from across a broad area.

With something for everyone, the 2025 Ballinamore Family Festival and Ballinamore Agricultural Show promises to be a truly unforgettable celebration.