7 Hills Blues Fest 2026

What to Expect

The 7 Hills Blues Fest returns for its ninth year from Friday 31 July to Sunday 2 August 2026, bringing world-class blues and roots music to over 20 venues and locations across Armagh city. The festival features over 40 free gigs from local, national and international artists. The weekend opens on Friday with lunchtime bandstand performances, followed by street acts, face painting and balloon modelling throughout.

Saturday 1 August includes an Artisan Market at The Shambles from 11am to 4pm, street food on Market Street from 11am to 5pm, and live walkabout performances from 10:30am. The MD Rafferty Music School Live Lounge offers a community performance showcase. Most events are free to attend.

Good to Know

• Friday 31 July to Sunday 2 August 2026 across multiple city-centre venues.

• Over 40 gigs; the majority are free entry.

• Saturday artisan market and street food run 11am to 4pm/5pm at The Shambles and Market Street.

• Family-friendly events including face painting and street performers throughout the weekend.

• Contact: 7hillsblues@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk.

Getting There

Venues are spread throughout Armagh city centre and within easy walking distance of one another. Armagh is served by bus from Portadown, Newry and Dungannon. Limited on-street and car-park parking is available in the city centre.