Dates for 2026 12th to 19th July 2026
The longest running community festival along the wild Atlantic way, inspired by Ballina’s jewel in its crown, the River Moy, as Ballina is officially dubbed ‘Salmon Capital of Ireland’, returns for 2026 and the dates have being set from the 12th to the 19th July 2026.
The ethos has remained the same, it continues to celebrate all that is great about the community of Ballina and Co Mayo; Family fun , music, arts, culture and heritage, sports and the magnificent River Moy, making Ballina Salmon Festival a very special seven days to remember.
‘Meet as a Stranger, Leave as a Friend’.
The Ballina Salmon Festival 2026 promises an extraordinary array of events that showcase the rich cultural heritage and community spirit of Mayo. From July 12th to 19th 2026, visitors can expect an immersive experience that caters to all ages and interests.
2025 festivities kick off with the nostalgic Cruinniú na mBád , a gathering of boats on the river Moy that pays homage to the festival’s origins. This event offers a glimpse into the tradition of sailing on the river, accompanied by the melodious tunes of the Foxford brass band and family-friendly activities.
Children are in for a treat with the return of the Teddy Bear Picnic , offering a delightful selection of activities and entertainment in Tom Ruane Park. With an impressive lineup of 60 events curated by the children’s committee, there’s something for every young festivalgoer to enjoy.
National Heritage Day on the Wednedsay a cornerstone event in the festival programme, transports visitors to a bygone era filled with traditional Irish songs, sounds of the craftspeople making and creating, market stalls brimming with handcrafted treasures. Picture yourself strolling through the vibrant streets of Ballina, surrounded by the echoes of traditional Irish songs and the rhythmic whistling of steam engines. The air is filled with the nostalgic aroma of the thresher, creating a sensory experience that immerses you in the atmosphere of a market day from a century ago. With multiple stages, a Ceili Marquee, and pop-up performances, the town comes alive with the sights and sounds of history.
Music enthusiasts can groove to the beats of Ireland’s hottest live musicians at the new IQ (Innovation Quarter) off Ballina’s market square.
Another highlight of the festival is the Moy Swim offering participants the chance to become part of Ballina’s history by taking on one of Ireland’s oldest river swims. With two distances on offer both the 600m and 2.5km and 600m youth distance swim this promises to be a fantastic opportunity to experience a competitive race in the scenic surrounds of the wild Atlantic way in the west of Ireland.
The end of the festival brings the town to a standstill with an amazing night of music and fireworks.
As the music fills the air, anticipation builds for the grand finale of the busking competition and an open air concert. Against the backdrop of the night sky, a breathtaking fireworks display will light up the heavens, painting a dazzling tapestry of colours and shapes. It’s a moment of pure magic, uniting festivalgoers in awe and wonder as they come together to mark this momentous occasion.
From the Lady of the Moy event to the Ballina Agricultural Show , the festival’s diverse lineup ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, the Ballina Salmon Festival offers an unforgettable celebration of community, culture, and heritage.
With its blend of live music, street theatre, art, food, heritage, fishing, and sports, the Ballina Salmon Festival continues to captivate audiences and foster community spirit for six decades. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning reveller, the festival offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates the heart and soul of Co Mayo.