Castlebar – the place to be this Easter
Castlebar is set to be a hive of activity this Easter Bank Holiday weekend as the Castlebar 9’s Festival returns for its third and biggest year yet.
Taking place on April 3, 4 and 5 at Castlebar Mitchels GAA Club, the festival will, for the first time, span three full days of football, music and family entertainment.
The innovative 9-a-side format continues to deliver fast-paced, attacking football, attracting top-class men’s and ladies’ teams from across Ireland. In a major milestone for 2026, the festival officially goes international, warmly welcoming Tara’s LGFC travelling from London to compete.
Off the pitch, organisers promise their biggest entertainment line-up to date. A significantly expanded marquee, complete with full bar facilities, will host over 20 hours of live entertainment across the weekend.
Both Saturday and Sunday’s music programmes will begin with Scór na nÓg, celebrating young local talent and the cultural traditions of the community.
The weekend launches on Friday night with a headline comedy show featuring Ger Staunton, joined by special guests John Colleary and David Angolo. Live music follows from The Change, featuring the Staunton brothers, setting the tone for a high-energy weekend.
Saturday’s live music showcase includes Pete and Dean, For Folk’s Sake, Myles and Vinny and Laura Jo Duo. Sunday’s festival finale features Paddy Heneghan, Daire and Tommy, Chris and Dave and The Unusual Ramblers.
In a major new addition, the festival will close with an official Sunday night after party in Club Mantra, bringing the celebrations into the heart of the town and providing a fitting finale to the Easter weekend festival.
Family entertainment remains central to the festival. Sandra Ganley returns with her popular dance classes, Magic Dan will entertain with his tricks, and the fire truck and crew will once again be on site, alongside food vendors and activities for all ages.
Festival organiser Stephen Keane said the vision of making Castlebar “the place to be” every Easter is becoming a reality.
The committee extended thanks to main sponsor Shaw Commercials and all local businesses and volunteers supporting the event.
Follow Castlebar 9’s social media channels for updates as well as tickets for the comedy show. Marquee entertainment and Sunday night after party tickets will go on sale soon.
For inquiries, contact Martin Corcoran, Festival PRO, at 087 779276 or email castlebar9s@gmail.com