Diamond Hill Music Festival 2026

Four days of Irish country and live music set against one of Connemara’s most recognisable landmarks - this is what the Diamond Hill Music Festival brings to the village of Letterfrack each July. The festival runs 9 to 12 July 2026, drawing a loyal crowd who combine the music with walking country, wild Atlantic air, and the kind of craic that only a small-village festival delivers. It suits anyone who enjoys a proper live lineup without the scale or expense of a stadium event - couples, groups of friends, and visitors using the week to explore Connemara.

What to expect

The festival is spread across four evenings, with a different headliner each night. Claudia Buckley opens proceedings on Friday, supported by Paul Mulligan & The Hog. Saturday sees Johnny Brady headline, with a Johnny Cash tribute act warming up the crowd beforehand. Sunday wraps things up with The Carey Band, a disco set from DJ Fiddler, and live sports coverage woven into the mix - giving it the feel of a community weekend as much as a music event. The over-18 rule applies across the festival.

Claudia Buckley and Johnny Brady are two of Ireland’s most reliable country draws, known for strong stage presence and audience singalongs. The Carey Band brings a livelier, dancefloor energy to close out the weekend. Expect a big tent or venue space, bar service, and the kind of atmosphere where you’ll recognise half the crowd by Saturday night.

Getting there

Letterfrack sits on the N59, roughly 70 km west of Galway City. From Galway, follow the N59 through Oughterard and Maam Cross - allow about an hour to an hour and a quarter depending on traffic. There is no direct rail link; the most practical option without a car is a Bus Eireann service from Galway City to Clifden, with Letterfrack on that route. Check Bus Eireann’s timetable in advance as services are less frequent in the evening. Parking in Letterfrack is limited given the village size - arriving early or staying locally avoids the scramble.

While you’re in Letterfrack

The village sits at the entrance to Connemara National Park, and Diamond Hill itself - the peak the festival takes its name from - is walkable from the village centre in about two hours return. It is worth arriving a day or two early to make the most of the setting. There is more to see in Letterfrack and across Co. Galway.

Good to know

• Festival runs 9 - 12 July 2026
• Times vary by night - check the festival’s Facebook page or contact the organiser for the schedule
• Tickets are not free; pricing has not been confirmed publicly - check the organiser’s channels closer to the date
• Over-18s only
• Letterfrack has limited accommodation - book early if you plan to stay overnight