Masters of Tradition Festival Bantry

What to Expect

Masters of Tradition is an internationally renowned traditional music festival held annually in Bantry, West Cork, with Martin Hayes as artistic director. The 2026 edition (19-23 August) features Cliodhna Ni Aodain, Aoife Ni Bhriain, Ryan Young, Charlie Piggott with his son Rowan Piggott, and alt-folk duo The Breath in the Saturday night concert. Concerts take place at the intimate library of Bantry House and in St Brendan’s Church in the town square. The festival also features free fringe concerts on Whiddy Island and at various West Cork venues.

Good to Know

• Dates: Wednesday 19 to Sunday 23 August 2026
• Venues: Bantry House library and St Brendan’s Church, Bantry
• Tickets via westcorkmusic.ie
• Friends of Masters of Tradition get early access
• Free fringe events on Whiddy Island and other locations

Getting There

Bantry is approximately 90km west of Cork city on the N71. Regular Bus Eireann services connect Bantry to Cork city.