Festivals
Festivals
You’re Welcome to Celebrate with Us.
From ancient festivals in the Slieve Bloom Mountains to modern day merry-making, Laois has enjoyed a party more than most for thousands of years. With over 25 festivals held throughout the county every year, you are most definitely invited to celebrate with us.
And from major international music weekends to local fiestas covering everything from scarecrows and storytelling, to drama and literature, you’re sure to find your tribe.
Come join us as we celebrate the length and breadth of the county – morning, noon, and night…
Timahoe Heritage Festival
Our event is all about sharing the story of a village in Co. Laois, that is steeped in centuries of history; from monks, monasteries and Vikings, to the famine, the War of Independence and beyond.
Buds and Blossoms Festival
We’re delighted to announce that Buds & Blossoms, Laois Garden Festival is taking place at Spink Community Grounds. We are really looking forward to welcoming attendees, speakers and exhibitors for what promises to be a great day of gardening fun for all the family to enjoy.
Old Fort Quarter Festival
A community led festival promoting the heritage of the Old Fort Quarter heritage in Portlaoise County Laois. A weekend of great music acts, family fun, heritage talks and displays and more.
The Folly Festival
Ireland's first ever gender balanced music and comedy weekend
Forest Fest
Summertime Boutique Festival to enjoy, Forest Fest at Emo Village for a weekend of music and arts. Forest Fest is aimed at a discerning audience, our objective to ensure a quality, close-up, close quarters, quality gig experience with numbers strictly limited.
The Ossory Agricultural Show
One of the largest agricultural shows in Ireland. It’s family-oriented with something for every-one
National Steam Rally, Stradbally
Twin Trees Festival
Visit Laois this August and wander The Twin Trees Festival, a three day outdoor painting event taking place in Heywood Gardens on day one, the woodlands and lakes on day two and Ballinakill Village on day three. With past participants and new artists on the scene, we welcome all to visit Laois to see the very picturesque Ballinakill on canvas. Let's celebrate art and culture in Laois.
Nourish and Flow
Welcome to the Nourish & Flow Festival, a transformative glamping retreat thoughtfully designed for individuals navigating the intricate stages of Perimenopause, Menopause, and Post Menopause. Nestled in the tranquil grounds of Ballykilcavan, Stradbally, Co. Laois, our festival invites you to embark on a rejuvenating journey from August 23rd to 25th, 2024.
Laois Pride
The first Laois Pride Festival was established in 2022 by a small team of incredible volunteers, helped by Midlands LGBT+ Project. We are delighted to see it continue and grow into 2023 and beyond!
National Ploughing Championship 2024
The National Ploughing Championships will return to Ratheniska in 2024, taking place from September 17th to 19th. Attracting an annual attendance of almost 300,000 this spectacular annual “Farming Festival” has it all.
Culture Night
Celebrate Culture Night in Laois at some of the wide variety of free arts and culture events for people of all ages