Thousands of people descended on Wexford town today for the official opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025, as the world’s largest celebration of traditional Irish music returned to the southeast town for the second consecutive year.
The eight-day cultural extravaganza is expected to draw over 700,000 visitors—surpassing last year’s attendance of 650,000—marking what organisers hope will be the biggest and most successful Fleadh in the event’s history.
President Michael D. Higgins is due to officially open the festival this afternoon at a public ceremony on Wexford’s quay front. From the specially constructed ‘Gig Rig’ stage, the President will address the crowd ahead of a week of live performances, competitions, and cultural showcases.
Even before the formal festivities begin, traditional music has already begun echoing through the town, with early concerts underway and sessions spilling into the streets. Among the performers are ‘Nascnua,’ a newly formed group whose five members met at last year’s Fleadh. The group includes three sisters from Rosslare and two musicians from other parts of the county, all active members of local Comhaltas branches and Wexford’s Ceoltóirí na Sláine Youth Orchestra.
Festival enthusiasm is also evident at the official Fleadh merchandise tent. “Stock has been flying out the door,” said Michelle Treacy, urging attendees to arrive early if they want the best pick of sizes and colours.
Wexford County Council Chief Executive Eddie Taaff highlighted the economic impact of the Fleadh, noting that last year’s event generated an estimated €65 million for the local economy. “The town has been a hive of activity for weeks. Volunteers, businesses, and residents have all come together to ensure this year is even more successful,” he said.
More than 40,000 musicians, dancers, singers, and storytellers will compete in over 180 events scheduled between next Friday and Sunday. Hundreds of other live performances, including street busking and informal sessions, will be held throughout the town.
Around 1,000 volunteers in bright yellow shirts are stationed across Wexford to guide and assist visitors. Traffic diversions, park-and-ride systems, and expanded public transport services have been implemented to manage the influx of festivalgoers.
As music fills the streets and the town welcomes global visitors, the spirit of Irish tradition is alive and thriving once again on the banks of the Slaney.
