Aurfest returns this summer to Louth's Bellurgan Park

Returning to the stunning grounds of Bellurgan Park, just outside Dundalk, on 3rd and 4th July 2026, Aurfest has quickly established itself as one of Ireland’s most exciting intimate boutique festivals, small in scale, big on atmosphere, and firmly rooted in Irish talent.

Now in its second year, Aurfest is a collision of music, comedy, storytelling and a healthy dose of the unexpected.

Created by a group of Dundalk-based musicians, comedians and event professionals, it’s a passionate, homegrown project with a clear focus, championing original Irish artists across genres.

Set within the lush surroundings of Bellurgan Park, Aurfest offers a refreshing alternative to large-scale festivals.

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No endless queues, no overwhelming crowds, just great acts, a beautiful setting and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere.

Aurfest leans into the joy of discovery, unexpected performances, genre-hopping line-ups and moments you won’t find anywhere else.

It’s as much about stumbling across something brilliant as it is about who’s on the bill.

This year’s programme brings together a mix of emerging and established Irish acts, including one of the most talked-about live performers in the country right now.

One of the headline acts, SexyTadhg, arrives at Aurfest following a huge year of sold-out shows and major festival appearances.

From headlining dates at The Academy in Dublin to supporting The Mary Wallopers across the UK, including The O2 Brixton Academy and The O2 Apollo Manchester, SexyTadhg has built a reputation for electrifying, larger-than-life performances that translate just as powerfully to an intimate setting like Aurfest.

They’re joined by a strong roster of Irish acts including RiaRua, Jobseekerz, The Twisted Sisters, Eugene O’Hanlon Band, Messy Avocado, Arco Arena and Formorian.

On the comedy side, audiences can expect sharp, standout sets from Shinanne Higgins, Breda Hegarty, Aideen McQueen and Joe Dowling, with more acts still to be announced.

New for 2026 is a dedicated Open Mic & Seanchaí space, curated by Áine Duffy, bringing spoken word, storytelling and experimental performance into the mix, alongside her own brilliantly eccentric musical project, Duff Box.

It’s a natural extension of what Aurfest does best, creating space for creativity that doesn’t quite fit in a box.

Alongside the stages, festival-goers can expect camping under the stars, local food vendors, craft stalls, art installations and workshops, creating a weekend that feels immersive without ever being overwhelming.

At its core, Aurfest is about community, between artists, audiences and a crowd that’s open, curious and up for the craic.

There’s a strong emphasis on inclusivity across gender and genres, and a genuine sense that everyone is welcome, whether on stage or in the field.

Co-founder Sonya Larrigan said: “Coming into year two, we really wanted to build on what made Aurfest special in the first place, keeping it intimate, keeping it fun, and putting Irish artists front and centre.

“There’s an incredible energy when you bring this kind of talent together in a setting like Bellurgan Park.

“It’s relaxed, it’s a bit unexpected, and it’s all about giving people a great weekend.”

Whether you're there for the music, the comedy, or just a weekend that doesn’t take itself too seriously, Aurfest delivers something genuinely different.

For tickets and information: www.aurfest.ie