New boutique festival Aurfest takes place in Dundalk this weekend

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of music, comedy, and community as Aurfest makes its vibrant debut this weekend, on 4th & 5th July, at the stunning Bellurgan Park, nestled in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East.

With a strictly limited capacity of just 1,000 attendees, this boutique festival promises an intimate and electric atmosphere where creativity thrives and memories are made.

Aurfest blends the best of local and national talent, featuring performances from Ispíní na hÉireann, Duke Special, Odhran Murphy, The Twisted Sisters, and many more.

What truly sets Aurfest apart is its strong homegrown heart.

Local artists are front and centre, with performances from Elephant, Jinx Lennon, Negro Impacto, Pork Pie, DJ Kirkface Killah, Eugene O’Hanlon, Arco Arena, The Gakk, comedian Shinanne Higgins, to name a few.

It's a line-up that reflects Dundalk’s status as a creative powerhouse, punching well above its weight on the national stage.

“It’s amazing to have a festival like this on our doorstep with such a strong local presence,” says co-founder Sonya Larrigan.

“We feel genuinely privileged to be able to showcase so much homegrown talent. Dundalk has an incredible depth of music, arts, and original creativity, and Aurfest is all about shining a light on that.”

Comedy lovers are in for a treat too, with Emma Doran, John Colleary, Lisa Casey, and James Downey bringing the laughs across both days.

Beyond the stages, festival goers can enjoy a handpicked selection of local food vendors, craft stalls, art installations, and workshops—perfect for families, culture vultures, and seasoned festival fans wanting a festival with real local character and atmosphere.

Aurfest is a homegrown project, developed and delivered by a passionate crew of Dundalk-based creatives, performers, and event professionals.

At its heart is a core team deeply rooted in the local arts scene: Sonya Larrigan, co-founder of Avocado Rocks and a longtime champion of Irish talent; Stacey Kelly and Vikki Byrne, both seasoned in arts programming, planning, and production; Alan Anderson, a stalwart of Dundalk’s music community and venue manager at Toales Live; Rebecca Whelan, who brings sharp expertise in contracts and production budgeting; Orla Crilly, a well-known local event organiser with decades of experience, from running the Sunshine Bar in the ’90s to her regular show on Dundalk FM—she’s most excited to see the smiling faces as the bands they’ve carefully curated hit the stage; and Sinead Crilly, who takes the reins as Comedy Coordinator, adding her wit and energy to ensure the laughs keep rolling.

Each team member brings deep local knowledge and a shared vision to celebrate the creative spirit of Dundalk and the surrounding region.

“Aurfest is about creating something personal, collaborative, and alive with creativity,” Sonya continues.

“We wanted to build a platform that brings together the best of what this town and this country have to offer, and have a damn good weekend while we’re at it.”

Whether you're a music lover, a comedy fan, or just looking for a quality weekend with great people in a beautiful setting, Aurfest is the festival to experience this summer.

Bellurgan Park, Bellurgan, Dundalk, Co. Louth on Friday 4th & Saturday 5th July 2025.

For full programme and tickets visit: www.aurfest.ie