GALLERY: Joe Mooney Summer School returns to Leitrim this Summer

The award-winning Joe Mooney Summer School (Scoil Samhraidh Joe Mooney) is officially returning to the lakeside town of Drumshanbo this summer.

Celebrating its 36th year, this premier week-long festival of traditional Irish music, song, and dance will run from Saturday, July 18th to Saturday, July 25th, 2026.

Named in honor of the late Joe Mooney—who dedicated his life to promoting his beloved Leitrim heritage—the summer school continues to hand down the finest traditions of Irish culture to future generations.

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For eight days, the entire town of Drumshanbo will be transformed into a vibrant, open-air celebration, attracting musicians, dancers, and listeners from all corners of Ireland and across the globe.

The 2026 Program Highlights The 2026 festival promises an immersive mix of structured learning and unmatched community atmosphere, featuring events spread across the town's venues and streets.

Expert Daily Masterclasses: Running Monday through Friday, the core of the school offers top-tier tuition catering to all skill levels—from complete beginners to advanced players. Workshops include traditional instruments (fiddle, flute, concertina, banjo, accordion, whistle, and pipes), traditional singing, and traditional Irish step dancing.

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Renowned Dance Workshops: Heavy emphasis remains on traditional dance, featuring daily classes in Set Dancing, fast-paced Sean-nós dancing, and junior dance programs designed to keep families moving.

Major Concert Events: The 2026 schedule includes a highly anticipated Opening Concert featuring acclaimed traditional artists, alongside the flagship Grand Traditional Concert scheduled for Thursday, July 23rd at the Community Centre.

Nightly Céilithe and Recitals: Every evening, the town’s main hall comes alive with social dances (céilithe) powered by Ireland’s leading traditional live dance bands.

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Cultural and Heritage Events: Beyond performance, the 2026 program features educational lectures, cultural presentations, and a guided heritage tour highlighting the scenic beauty and history surrounding Lough Allen.

Impromptu Street Sessions: True to the spirit of the festival, much of the magic happens organically. Pubs, street corners, and local hubs will host continuous, informal music sessions running late into the night.

Registration for all intensive classes and workshops is now open via the official website and will strictly close on Friday, July 12th, 2026.

Early booking for local accommodation is highly recommended as availability fills rapidly.To download the full 2026 event brochure, check venue maps, or secure your class registration, visit www.joemooneysummerschool.com.