Stockton’s Wing to headline folk festival on Mayo island
AFTER a hugely successful and sold-out debut in 2024, Dooagh Folk Festival will return to Achill Island from September 12 to September 14, with Irish folk legends Stockton’s Wing confirmed as this year’s headline act.
Set once again in the heart of the scenic village of Dooagh, the festival promises another weekend of outstanding music, warm community spirit and unforgettable cultural celebration.
Last year’s inaugural festival brought visitors from all over Ireland and beyond to experience live traditional music against the wild and stunning backdrop of the Atlantic.
This year’s programme builds on that momentum, expanding the line-up and introducing new elements while staying rooted in the local music and stories of Achill.
Headlining Saturday night’s main stage concert, Stockton’s Wing bring with them decades of ground-breaking music that blends Irish traditional roots with infectious rhythm and fearless innovation.
Joining them across the weekend are some of the country’s finest musicians including Máirtín O’Connor, Cathal Hayden and Seámie Ó Dowd, John Spillane, Pauline Scanlon and The Half Room, and Brìghde Chaimbeul. The festival will also feature beloved acts such as The Johnny Quinn Macs, Leonard Barry, and a host of talented local and emerging artists including the Golden Eagle Pipe Band, Fintan, Kieran and Seán O'Malley and Féileacán.
Festival goers can look forward to a wide range of events and performances, from Friday’s powerful opening night concert to sessions, workshops and more throughout Saturday, and the relaxed Sunday acoustic gathering overlooking the Minaun Cliffs.
Highlights include Ceol Acla, a celebration of west Mayo’s rich musical heritage and the Irish language, hosted by Achill fiddler Diarmuid Gielty. Ceol na gCnoc will feature an atmospheric piping recital with Uilleann piper Leonard Barry and Scottish small pipes innovator Brìghde Chaimbeul.
Younger voices take the spotlight during The Up and Coming, with performances from rising stars like Aoife Fadian and Bríd McLoughlin. For those keen to get the hands-on experience of the festival, The Bodhrán Buzz offers rhythm workshops and group jams led by All-Ireland champion Robbie Walsh.
Sunday’s Chill Session will be hosted by Achill artist Graham Sweeney at the Líllí Bán Café, offering a calm and reflective close to a high-energy weekend. The final evening will see festival-goers come together once more for a celebratory barbecue and a closing sing-song in The Shark Bar, Keel.
Speaking ahead of this year’s event, festival director Seán Lynch said: “The response to last year’s inaugural festival was overwhelming. It confirmed what we already knew - that there’s something truly special about gathering here in Dooagh to celebrate the music and culture of this special place.
"This year’s line-up brings together legends, innovators and emerging talent in a setting that’s hard to match. We’re delighted to welcome everyone back this September.”
Tickets are now on sale at www.dooaghfolkfest.ie and are moving fast following last year’s sell-out. For accommodation queries, please contact Achill Tourism or Keel Camping - the festival's official campsite. Early booking is strongly advised.
For updates, artist announcements and full programme details, follow @dooaghfolkfest on its various social media platforms.